FRANK W. GOERZEN -

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FRANK W. GOERZEN 1941 - 2005 It is with deep sadness the family of Frank W. Goerzen announces the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, at home, in the early hours of January 31, 2005. He is survived by his wife Martha (Wonnacott) Goerzen; daughter Sherry and Rob Kehler (children, Devon, Jody and Shelton), daughter Betty and Gerald Froese (children Ryan and Nicole); son Matt; brothers, Jake, Henry and Bill; sisters, Nita, Marge, Marie and Anna, and their families. Dad was born in Altona, MB on February 25, 1941, and grew up on his parent's farm in Blumenort, west of Gretna. He had been a student at the Blumenort Elementary School and later graduated from Gretna's Mennonite Collegiate Institute. He earned his Agriculture Diploma in soil sciences at the University of Manitoba. Having participated in debating clubs in both high school and in university, he was a man who loved a good discussion. He could sum up the value of any crop or animal stock as quick as a wink, armed with only his trusty calculator and his impressively accurate and inquisitive mind. His opinionated and authoritative voice would often be heard above the din at George's Coffee House (now Punky's Place) in Gretna. It was here he met his future wife and friend, Martha, who came as a package set complete with two young daughters, Sherry and Betty. Mom and Dad were married in May of 1971 and purchased the family farm together. Their son Matt was born in 1975. Dad was always involved both physically and socially within the local community. He enjoyed curling, bowling, fishing, hunting, and playing baseball - his favourite sport, and was an active member of various executive boards such as the local sugar beet board, and the Gretna Credit Union Board, including a stint as its president. As a farmer, he was a careful caretaker for his land. As a man, he cared deeply for his family and friends. He had a good old-fashioned temper to match his fiery red hair, but he also showed patience, strength, kindness, and humour during even those most difficult or exasperating of times. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in July, 2004, and died of a heart attack after having enjoyed one last cup of coffee with his wife. Funeral services will be at the Blumenorter Church in Rose Town, 15 km. south of Plum Coulee, at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 4. After the service, he will be laid to rest near his father and mother in the Blumenort Cemetery. Dad, we love you and wish you well. You will be sorely missed.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 03, 2005