Obituary of Bill Friesen

William I. Friesen was born to Klaas and Agnes Isaac Friesen on Feb, 22, 1935 near McTavish, Manitoba. He peacefully passed away on July 9, 2024 at the Red River Valley Lodge in Morris, Manitoba. He reached the age of 89 years. He grew up on the family farm with his 4 brothers and 2 sisters. He received his basic education at the Willow Heights School, a quarter mile from his home. Uncle Bill owned a quarter section of bush land near his brother Frank’s farm at Elma, Manitoba. Some winters he and his brother Nick cut wood there, staying in a cabin that his nephews built. Bill also worked at the sugar factory in Winnipeg many winters. Uncle Bill married Bessie Johnson on August 14, 1982 in Winnipeg, MB. She passed away April 4, 1996. After retirement he lived at the Morris Manor a number of years. He enjoyed coming to his brother Wilbert's farm and helped with mowing and yard work. He also loved going to Grandview to spend time with his brother Walter. A highlight for these two brothers was traveling to Churchill, MB by train approximately 20 years ago. Uncle Bill suffered a stroke in 2011 and spent some time in Boundary Trails Rehab for recovery: After this he moved to the Rosenort Heritage Center. While living here he became troubled about his past life. Uncle Bill sought the Lord's face and found forgiveness. On May 17, 2016 he was baptized by Pastor John Driedger of Rosenort Fellowship Chapel. He loved to read his large print Bible daily, and spent time in prayer, mentioning the names of all his nieces and nephews. It warmed his heart to listen to singing. For a pastime here he put puzzles together and played Skip-Bo with others. Needing more care, he moved to the Red River Valley Lodge on July 8, 2019. He enjoyed family coming to visit him. His stroke had impaired his speech, and we appreciate the patience he had with us when we had difficulty understanding him. Left to cherish memories are his sister Matilda and Nick Rempel, Steinbach, MB, and brother Wilbert and Rose Friesen, Rosenort, MB, plus over 30 nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Bessie, one sister Mary, three brothers: Frank, Walter, and Nick. A special thanks to the Rosenort Heritage and the Morris Lodge staff for all the care and support you gave to Bill over the past years. The funeral service will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 10:30am at the Rosenort Fellowship Chapel. Public viewing will be held at Morris Funeral Home Friday, July 12, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm and at the church prior to the funeral service. Burial will take place at the Church God in Christ Cemetery on Hwy 422 near Rosenort.