Friesen, John Jacob (1925-2000)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 Dec 1 p. 27

Birth date: 1925 Apr 6

text of obituary:

JOHN JACOB FRIESEN

John Jacob Friesen of Richmond, B,C. passed away June 27, He was born Apr. 6, 1925 to Jacob and Wanda Wiebe in Orenburg, Russia. In 1926 the family immigrated to Canada, At 5, he was adopted by Peter and Mary Friesen. He grew up in Alberta. During his years at Coaldale Bible School, he committed his life to Christ. He was baptized and joined Coaldale MB Church July 30, 1944. He married Helen Thiessen Nov. 26, 1950. They moved to Vancouver. They were charter members of Fraserview MB Church. Church and MCC were important part of his life. He was a certified steam engineer and millwright. He worked for Fletchers Meats for 36 years. He valued family relationships, praying daily for his children and grandchildren. He had a Christ-centred character and a gift for helping others. He was a quiet, generous man, who had a strong impact on those who knew him. In January 1999 he was diagnosed with lymphoma. He continued to praise God for His many blessings. He is mourned by Helen; daughters Marlene Friesen of Surrey, B.C., Evelyn Neufeld and Linda Wiens, both of Langley, B.C., and Diana Braun of Surrey; 12 grandchildren; 1 brother and 3 sisters. The funeral was July 4 in Fraserview MB Church, Richmond, with Dan Unrau and Herb Brandt ministering.