Friesen, Susan Heppner (1918-2001)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary:2001 Sep 14, p. 25

Birth date: 1918 Jul 17

text of obituary:

SUSAN FRIESEN

Susan Friesen of Winnipeg passed away Apr. 28. She was born July 17, 1918 to Anton A. and Katharina Heppner near Horndean, Man. She grew up on a farm. Her mother was a Christian and her father was not at that time. At 18, she was baptized and joined the Bergthaler Mennonite church, but never had a personal experience with the Lord and soon fell away. She married a non-Christian, then divorced. She married David I. Friesen Jan. 12, 1946. They moved to Plum Coulee, Man. Her eldest brother witnessed to her, and she began to search. She listened to the Back to the Bible radio program. After a broadcast that used Matt. 11:28,29, she cried to the Lord for forgiveness. Reading John 6:37 and Is. 1:18 also helped, but she did not feel joy and victorious in Christ. After further help from Rev. John Schmidt and more prayer and confession, she was able to forgive herself and found victory. She loved the Lord and served Him faithfully, becoming a prayer warrior for family, friends and neighbours, always eager to share her testimony. She loved her children, had an engaging sense of humour and boundless energy, and loved to work in her home and garden. She served in the church ladies' mission circle, helping with weddings and funerals, helping MCC and making many quilts. She joined the missions choir and the women's choir in the Bergthaler church. In May 1967 son Graham died at age 20 in a car accident, but she was comforted by a vision. In 1975 they retired from farming to Winnipeg, where she made new friends, was involved in the church ladies' group, volunteered at the MCC thrift shop and was part of a Bible study group, Christian Women's Club and Aglow. She sewed and crocheted and made many afghans for family and friends. At 69, she was baptized and joined McIvor Ave. MB Church. She became part of the seniors' group. Without complaining, she cared for David in his illness. She prayed daily for the salvation of her children and grandchildren. She served others and had the gift of hospitality. As her health deteriorated, she found courage in her faith. Predeceased by David in 1996 and son Graham, she is mourned by children Larry of Winnipeg, Wesley of Vancouver, Al of Winnipeg and Wanda of Winnipeg; 6 grandchildren; and 1 sister. The funeral was May 3 in McIvor Ave. MB Church, with John B. Epp and Doug Enns ministering.