RAYMOND FROESE

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RAYMOND FROESE November 13, 1958 - July 2, 2012 Raymond John Froese passed away peacefully with family by his side on July 2, 2012, at the age of 53. He was born on November 13, 1958 in Crystal City, Manitoba to Frank and Anne Froese and was the youngest of their four children. He was raised together with his three older brothers on the family farm, initially at Clearwater and later at Cartwright. Ray completed all of his public schooling at Cartwright and graduated from Cartwright Collegiate in 1976. Thereafter he attended the University of Manitoba, graduating with his Diploma in Agriculture in 1979. During this time, his keen interest in travelling became apparent when he interrupted his university studies to join two friends for a lengthy trip throughout Europe. After a short stint working in Winnipeg, Ray returned to the family farm in Cartwright where he began a lifelong career in farming. He quickly became part of the local community and was an active member of the Mather and Trinity Mennonite Churches, where he was baptized in 1981. He also participated in local organized sports such as curling, badminton, and volleyball and ran in the Manitoba Marathon. Ray always demonstrated an interest in all sporting events - even asking about the outcome of the Euro Cup soccer final the day before his death. Farming was a full time commitment for Ray and his dedication to and passion for agriculture were evident in all his activities. However, he was also an avid reader and this was reflected in his thoughtful perspectives on world affairs and politics. He found time to participate in organized politics and later in church congregational and conference activities. As well, he travelled extensively throughout Canada and participated in a special mission to Nicaragua. Ray was an optimist and his even-keeled approach and sense of humour served him well through some challenging times in life. He always looked for the good in people and was well known for his tolerance of other viewpoints and lifestyles, and his unexpected, witty one-liners. His philosophy was to take one day at a time, which he continued to demonstrate throughout his brief illness. Left to cherish his memory are: his brothers, Neil (Eileen) Froese, Ron (Lynn) Froese, Clarence Froese (Karen Dempsey), his nephews Patrick (Andrea), Allan (Michelle and great-niece, Madison, and great-nephew, Colton), his nieces Carla (Chris), Lisa, and Sara. He was predeceased by his father in 1987 and his mother in 1995. The family expresses their appreciation to everyone who looked after Ray during the past few months in Health Sciences Centre, Brandon Regional Health Centre, Tri Lake Health Centre and, in particular, the caring staff in the Brandon Health Centre ICU. Also, many thanks to all Ray's friends and relatives who visited and supported him throughout his hospital stay. He was grateful and moved by the support. Memorial service was held at the Trinity Mennonite Fellowship Church in Mather, Manitoba on Friday, July 6. Donations in memory of Raymond may be made to The Canadian Food Grains Bank, P.O. Box 767, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2L4 www.foodgrainsbank.ca. Graham's Funeral Service Ltd. (204) 825-2848 www.wheatlandfs.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 21, 2012