Grace Friesen

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our mother, Grace Friesen on April 17, 2023. Mom went home to Heaven at the age of 71, after spending her final days battling cancer at the Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach, Manitoba. Mom was predeceased by her two grandsons, one sister, and both her parents.

Grace leaves behind: her husband of almost 54 years, Ben; three daughters; Carmen, Tricia, Daphne; one son; Jay and their families, including eight grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Mom was born in Steinbach, Manitoba on May 14, 1951 to William and Jean Kohut joining older sister, Ruth. She grew up on a small farm east of Sarto, off the 205 Highway. Growing up, Mom began elementary at Willow Plains School in Sarto and finished her high school years in Grunthal. As a youth, she enjoyed visiting her sister Ruth in the big city of Winnipeg. By the time she was in high school, she met Dad and the two wasted little time--getting married on Sept 6, 1969.  Eventually, they bought 160 acres on municipal road 30E in the Grunthal/Sarto area, where they raised their family. When the time was right, they sold the acreage and Mom spent her remaining years with Dad and Daphne in the town of Grunthal.

Mom accepted Jesus into her life in the early 1980’s. Church life and her faith were important to her from that moment till the very end. There is no doubt she is rejoicing in Heaven!

Grace spent most of her working life as a homemaker. Once her youngest child was old enough, she decided to go back to school to become a health care aid.

One activity mom enjoyed most was camping and bonfires with the family; which continued into her retirement years with Dad and Daphne in the camper. Mom loved going out for a meal. A staple in our childhood for a birthday or almost any excuse to go out, was a meal shared at Pizza Hut. No matter where they went, be it Thief River Falls or Grand Forks, Pizza Hut was typically a part of the weekend plans.

Cross stitching and doing puzzles kept mom busy. She was always interested in wheeling and dealing on Varage sale, whether it be buying or selling. Thrifting, also known as treasure hunting, was a favourite pastime of hers which she passed on to her son and his daughter. She enjoyed watching her grandkids play their sport of choice and was proud to cheer them on. Mom, Dad and Daphne all enjoyed being part of Springs Church and travelled to Winnipeg for church as often as possible. Mom dedicated her life to make sure Dad and Daphne were looked after, which was very important to her.

Our family would like to thank the nursing staff at Bethesda Regional Health Centre and Dr. Karen Toews for taking such good care of Mom towards the end of her time on earth. A big thanks goes to extended family and friends in the community that stepped in to help when we couldn’t be there. We would also like to thank Crossings Funeral Care for the professionalism and compassion shown during this time.

According to Grace's wishes, cremation has taken place and a graveside service for close friends and family will take place at 1:00 pm on Saturday, June 24, 2023.