JOHN FRIESEN I

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JOHN FRIESEN I would like to tell you a beautiful story....on February 4, 1939, a healthy baby boy was born to George and Tina Friesen, and they named him John. Johnny grew up on a farm in Halbstadt, Manitoba with his siblings Tina (John), Dick (Eva), Suzie (Peter), Mary (Tony), Helen (Ben), and Eva. He met the gorgeous Irma Gauthier when he was the best man and she a bridesmaid at Helen's wedding. That turned out to be the first date of many before they married on July 7, 1962. John and Irma enjoyed several years together before starting a family. They welcomed their son Chad (Maryann) in the summer of 1969. Tracy (Tim) followed in April of 1972, and the million dollar family was complete...but where was the million dollars? John worked hard all his life to support his family. He chose a career in trucking and finally realized his dream of starting his own business when he opened the doors of Win-Mar in 1994 with Chad. John officially retired from the work that he loved in 2001, and continued to enjoy life to the fullest. His early shenanigans usually involved his best friend and brother-in-law Gerry (Christine) and often his sister-in-law Muriel (Alan). In his younger days he took much pleasure in camping at Lee River and was an impressive water-skier. He loved to travel and saw much of Canada, the United States and Mexico. Another dream was realized when he bought a motor home and he and Irma happily drove as far East as Quebec, West to British Columbia and South to Texas. John was a man of great faith, and was actively involved in his parish, Blessed Sacrament and the Knight's of Columbus. Golf and grandchildren were his latest passions. Although he believed himself to be an average golfer, everyone can attest that he was an exceptional grandpa. Cameron, Brooke, Marissa and Amber were the lucky recipients of his unconditional love and unwavering patience. But as we all know, even a life this well lived must come to an end. And so on July 5, 2010 John passed away peacefully holding hands with his wife and children. He didn't say good-bye, just I love you all and will see you again some day. Although we'll miss his smile we'll still feel his love, and look forward to the day when he meets us at the gates of Heaven and says Welcome Home . Irma would like to extend a heart felt thank-you to the residents of North Plympton Village for their support and generosity. Mass of the Resurrection will be held Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 1:00 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Parish, 710 Roanoke. Father Ed Bonin officiating. Interment to follow at the Transcona Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 10, 2010