Obituary of John "Jack" Robert Diesen

John "Jack" Robert Diesen May 28, 1932 - February 16, 2020 John “Jack” Diesen was born on May 28, 1932 in Leask Saskatchewan. His parents Christian and Annie brought him home to the house and farm that Jack would call home for 82 years. Jack married his soul mate, Lorraine Swenson on July 2, 1955 and they raised their 5 children on the very farm that he grew up on. He was so very proud of the fact the farm has remained active and is now farmed by his grandson Mark, a fourth generation Diesen! He would often comment “there has been a Diesen on this farm for over 100 years! Isn’t that something!” Having lived almost all his life in the Shell Lake area, Jack was a loyal and proud community member. He was instrumental in helping get a beautiful hockey rink and community hall built in the 1970s. He was an active Lions Club member for many years, coached hockey, was president of the hockey league and was on the Provincial Land Appeals Board for many years. Jack was very active in politics as well. He spent many hours campaigning for various candidates and was seen as leader within the Conservative party both at the provincial and federal level. He was a personal friend of John Diefenbaker, something he was very proud of. So between all his committee roles, farming and raising 5 kids, he was a very busy man! He spent hundreds of hours on the phone and on the road which was well suited for Jack as he loved to talk and spend time with people. He was very sociable and was a wonderful conversationalist. He always had time for a cup of coffee and a good old visit with anyone who would sit with him. He was a storyteller and always put a healthy amount of good humour into his interactions with people! He loved food and anything sweet. He maintained a good appetite right up to his final days, something we always marvelled at. Jack had a special place in his heart for many of his cherished pets, they brought much joy to him over his lifetime. He was a proud, honourable man who was respected and loved by all that had the privilege of knowing him. He was a true family man and his love for Lorraine was inspirational. Jack leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Lorraine, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren: Brian (Rose) Diesen of Shell Lake and family: Mark (Kirstan) Diesen and daughter: Harper, Heather (Mike) Sarrazin and children: Kylie and Carter, Hartley (Roxanne) Diesen of Shell Lake and family: Linsay (Seth) Maier, Brandon Diesen, Mitchell (Jenna) Diesen, Brenda (Jody) Wiese of Ponoka, AB and daughter: Morgan (Keegan McLeod), Bradley (Tannis) Diesen of Cold Lake, AB and family: Chantelle (Mike Neumier) and children: Brady, Easton, Brooke, and Ryker, Caitlin Emond (Gab Massie) and children: Kai and Lyra Jordyn Emond, his sisters-in-law, Ruby Swenson and Myrtle Swneson also numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by: his parents, Christian and Annie Diesen, his son, Chris Diesen and his grandson, Brett Wiese. A Celebration of Life was held Saturday February 22, 2020 at 2:00 pm. in the Shell Lake Lion's Hall with Rev. David Jensen officiating. The pallbearers were Mark Diesen, Brandon Diesen, Jody Wiese, Mike Sarrazin, Mitchell Diesen and Rob Olson. A private family interment followed the funeral service in the Shell Lake Cemetery. Following the interment service the family invited all in attendance to a time fellowship and lunch at the Lion’s Community Hall. Donations in memory of John "Jack" Diesen may be made to Alzheimer's Society of Saskatchewan as tokens of remembrance. Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beauacfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau "Lac" Funeral Home, Mark Muir, Funeral Director, Spiritwood, SK (306-883-3500).