Raymond George Duchek

Raymond Duchek, affectionately known as Papa D, was born on February 28, 1931 to Annie and Karl Duchek in the Atwater/Barra district. He was the eighth child out of a large family of ten and had the closest relationship with his sister June, as they were the closest in age. His nickname growing up was Monte, given to him and used mostly by his mother Annie.  He attended Barra School where he completed his grade 6.  Raymond farmed with his dad and brothers until he got married to Louise Sikora on October 15, 1952 and then they started farming on their own.  He also had part-time work as a grader operator for the RM of the Fertile Belt and one winter at IMC.  They farmed in Barra District until 1981 when he retired from farming and remained living on the acreage until their move to Esterhazy in 1992 for the next 22 years. Following Louise’s passing on June 22, 2007, Raymond remained in the family home until moving to a variety of nursing homes with his final residence being in Saltcoats Lakeside Manor.  He never lost his sense of humour and enjoyed joking and teasing the staff.

They were cursed with five children Danny (Sylvia), Wendy (Leslie), Terry (Debbie), Cindy (Aurele) and Bryan (Ashley).  Raymond & Louise have 16 grandchildren (Dean, Chad, Mona, Jarred, Michelle, Jason, Tyler, Lyndell, Clayton, Amber, Justin, Camren, Megan, Tyson, Trevor, Ryder), 26 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.  He loved to joke around and tease all the kids until Louise would step in. Raymond and Louise enjoyed going to Round Lake for dances   every Saturday night with their friends.  Papa D also enjoyed crop checking with his sons and son-in-law’s while ‘staying hydrated’.  Raymond and Louise spent many summers camping at Grimeau Park and West End with family.  After his retirement, he loved to relax in his reclining chair while watching the news.  Raymond also enjoyed hunting, gardening and making wine.  He enjoyed going to the Legion and having drinks and socializing with family and friends.  Papa D  always had a love for chocolate, cheezies and peppermints.   

He was predeceased by his parents, loving wife Louise and brothers Willie, Siggie, Henry, Hans, and Rudy and his sisters Lena, Nita, June and Doreen.