Riesen, Isbrand (1889-1970)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1970 Mar 06 p. 26

Birth date: 1889 Feb 10

text of obituary:

ISBRAND RIESEN

Isbrand Riesen, late of 4450 Dyke Road. Yarrow, H.C., passed away January 20 in the Chilliwack General Hospital. He was 80 years old. Mr. Riesen was born on February 10. 1889 in Tastchinak, Taurien, South Russia. He became a Christian in 1908 and in the same year was baptized and received into the Mennonite Brethren Church. On November 22, 1912 he was married to Tina Bergen, a union which was blessed with four children two of whom, however. passed away in infancy. His first wife predeceased him on February 9, 1923. He found a second partner in Elizabeth Bergen (nee Spenst), a widow. In 1926 the family emigrated to Canada and in 1928 Mr. Riesen and his wife were ordained to the diaconate in the Gem (Alta.) Church. Several years later, in 1933, the family felt led to move to Yarrow, where they had lived since. They felt a divine leading to start a home for the aged and sick ,in the Yarrow area and in 1944 they established such a home, initiating a ministry that was rewarded with many blessings. In 1946 his second wife predeceased him and in the following year he again found a helpmate, Elizabeth Unruh, who was able to assist him in the great work he was engaged in. In 1953, because of failing health, they were forced to give up the work at the home. They retired and moved into Yarrow. After regaining his health somewhat, he continued to minister in many ways, especially in visitation and in transporting others about.

The funeral for Mr. Riesen was conducted from the Yarrow Church, January 24, with Rev. Henry Thielmann and Rev. P.D. Loewen ministering. Mr. Riesen is survived by his wife Elizabeth; two daughters, Mrs. Louise Matties and Mrs. Katie Martens; his sons-in-law; and one granddaughter.