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RICHARD WILLIAM THIESSEN
Born: Sep 24, 1926
Date of Passing: Feb 24, 2017
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryRICHARD WILLIAM THIESSEN Richard William Thiessen died peacefully after a lengthy illness at Bethania Nursing Home on February 24, 2017 at the age of 90. Richard is survived by his wife Katherine Thiessen (nee Wiebe); children, Ionna Thiessen (Herman Davis) and Randy Thiessen (Linda nee Thiessen); granddaughters, Lara McCabe, Nina Thiessen (Tim Reed), Julia Thiessen, Emily Thiessen (Aaron Noone) and Sarah Thiessen; brother Edward Thiessen (Eleanor) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Richard was born on September 24, 1926 in Arnaud, Manitoba to Franz and Susan Thiessen. He married Katherine Thiessen on August 31, 1947. They were married 69 years in a loving and supportive partnership. They moved to Winnipeg in 1950 where they raised their family and were active in the First Mennonite Church; he was a church deacon in the 1960's. In 1973 they moved to Cooks Creek where they had a wonderful life. Richard was an ardent bee keeper, and helped to work in Katherine's large vegetable garden. Their home was filled with laughter and love. Richard enjoyed playing baseball, hockey, skating and cross country skiing well into his later years. Together they loved to camp and canoe, travelling across Canada. They visited Europe and the Soviet Union many times and in 1990 were able to connect with long-lost Russian relatives. After retirement, Richard attended the University of Winnipeg taking many courses in Peace and Conflict studies. He loved music and sang in many choirs. He was passionate about encouraging nations and individuals towards reconciliation, justice and peace. He challenged us to consider positive alternatives to any situation. Family would like to thank Home Care, Health Science Centre and Bethania staff for their thoughtful care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Mennonite Church Refugee Fund, 922 Notre Dame Avenue, Winnipeg MB R3E 0M9. A memorial service will be held later in April; date to be announced.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 04, 2017
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
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We woud like to express our heartfelt condolences to the Thiessen Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Caroline & Karl Brandt (relative of Linda and Randy) on: Mar 08, 2017
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I grew up in Cooks Creek with Mr. Thiessen as my neighbour. I loved to walk over there and visit so often that I wore down a path through the bushes and trees between our houses. I spent hours at the Thiessen's home in the kitchen or in the yard, listening to many stories about their lives. My parents even bought me cross country skis so that when I would spot Mr. Thiessen out skiing I would rush to put mine on and follow him around until he was done. I remember my mom sending me over with money to buy a little honey from him and he would send me home with an armload of honey and gently refuse to take any money from us for it. Mr & Mrs Thiessen bought me a blue teapot after they moved away since I had visited for tea and cookies so often. I now collect teapots and it is still the only teapot I use. I think of them very fondly every time I have tea. Mr. Thiessen is one of the very best people I have ever known, so kind and patient, he will be missed ever so much. Much love and hugs to all of his family. - Posted by: Heather Craig () on: Mar 07, 2017
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My memories of Mr. Thiessen are only fond ones. He was a kind and gentle man who loved a great story, and told some good ones too. The best stories were shared over coffee (and usually baking that Mrs. Thiessen had prepared) at their home. Mr. Thiessen's curiosity was evident as was his keen interest in getting at the truth. He wrote letters to inform and to make right a wrong. He loved going to school - I could tell because he talked about his university studies with excitement. What is my fondest recollection about Mr. Thiessen? He stayed on his side of the fence and leaned against it to have a chat. It was a back and forth exchange. He was thoughtful in laying out his points of view, and listened carefully to the over-the-fence view. Also impressive? He and Mrs. Thiessen walked walked many, many kilometers together. I am glad to have met this gentle man, Ionna's dad. Many blessings from my home to those of Mr. Thiessen's family and friends as they go through this tender time. - Posted by: Fjola Hart Wasekeesikaw (Friend of Ionna Thiessen) on: Mar 05, 2017