John Funk

  • John Funk
  • Date of Passing: April 1, 2025
  • Born: April 18, 1943

Obituary

John Funk, age 81 years, of Grunthal, Manitoba, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Bethesda Regional Health Centre, Steinbach, MB.

He is survived by his wife Anne, one daughter, two sons and their families.

John was a man who lived with purpose, shaping the lives of those around him with unwavering strength, deep love, and a servant’s heart. He was many things to many people – husband, father, opa, poppa, great-grandfather, friend – but he was always a steady presence. He had a zest for life, and a boundless energy that never saw him sitting still for long.

Throughout his life, John embodied hard work. His kids found out early in life that he had very little use for laziness. Through farming, flooring, or in any of the tasks he took on, he poured himself into his work with dedication. Twenty years after ‘retirement’, he was still going strong putting down floors. Beyond his vocational work, John spent countless hours helping out with individual and community projects.

But John also knew how to play. His readiness to explore the world led to many storied adventures. He found joy in hunting, cutting wood, and simply sitting in the bush, reflecting and finding God’s presence in the stillness. He was an exceptional skier, and his unmistakable laughter echoed across the water as he pulled his kids behind the boat, celebrating their victories and wipeouts alike.

John had a heart for others. He recognized a need and met it with quiet generosity, often offering a load of firewood, a visit, or a helping hand without hesitation. His faith wasn’t merely professed – it was lived out through his actions. The love of God was proclaimed more through his work boots and calloused hands than through his words. His natural curiosity led him to connect with people everywhere he went, listening intently, asking lots of questions and offering wisdom with humility.

Since his diagnosis in January, John’s faith remained unshaken. Even as his strength waned, he found peace, declaring that God’s goodness had never left him. His love for his family deepened as they rallied around him. The harvest of this love was apparent in the way that family and dear friends willingly gathered to serve and witness his final earthly days.

John’s final wish was simple: “Just keep doing what you’re doing – live life, love each other, and keep growing.” His life was a testament to the power of joy, faith, and service. He taught those around him to embrace each moment fully, to show up for others, and to laugh often. His signature laugh will echo in the hearts of those who knew him, and his legacy of love and generosity will continue through them.

As he now finds himself in a place where he can, to quote him “finally hunt elk without the cops stopping him”, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace, reunited with many loved ones, and cheering us on. “Well done, good and faithful servant… we’ll catch you later.”

The livestreamed memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB.

Funeral Details

Memorial Service

  • Birchwood Funeral Chapel
  • 162 Highway 52 W, Steinbach
  • Directions: (Google Map)
  • April 5, 2025 - 4:00 pm

Arrangements