Friesen, David H. (1879-1961)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1961 Mar 30 p. 8

Birth date: 1879 May 5

text of obituary:

DAVID H. FRIESEN

David H. Friesen of Reedley, Calif., son of Henry B. Friesen and Helena Duerksen, was born May 5, 1879 in South Russia. As an infant he came with his parents to this continent and lived with them near Hillsboro, Kan.

Upon his confession of faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior, he was baptized by Rev. J. S. Hirschler in 1899 and received into the membership of the First Mennonite Church, Hillsboro, Kan.

The same minister also officiated when he exchanged wedding vows with Anna Ensz on Nov. 3, 1903. About 10 years later they moved to the DuBois, Aberdeen, Idaho area to continue farming for a livlihood [sic].

In 1923 the family moved to Reedley, Calif. They joined the First Mennonite Church, Reedley, in 1924 where they have been faithful members. Mr. Friesen always enjoyed good health until about two years ago, but was not seriously ill until a month and a half ago when he became aware that his condition might be fatal. He passed on to his eternal home, Sunday, March 5, 1961, having endured great pain the last few weeks.

He never experienced the possession of earthy riches but had access to spiritual resources that provided for a great family life which had its roots in Jesus Christ and the Church. He called upon many people in their illnesses and was a friend to many because of his willing hand and heart.

His life will continue to be cherished by his wife Anna, one daughter, Linda, Mrs. Paul Hinamon, Bakersfield, Calif.; four sons, Arthur and Alvin, Reedley, Calif., Willard, Santa Barbara, Calif., and Elmer, Pretty Prairie, Kan.; 13 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Anna Schmidt and Mrs. Mary Fast, Newton, Kan.; two brothers, Jacob H., Reedley, Calif., and John H., Aberdeen, Idaho, and many other relatives and friends.

The Mennonite obituary: 1961 Mar 21 p. 206