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LAURA FRIESEN
Born: Aug 11, 1922
Date of Passing: Mar 26, 2015
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryLAURA FRIESEN (nee KLASSEN) Laura Friesen (nee Klassen) passed away peacefully on March 26, 2015 at age 92, surrounded by her family. The oldest of 3 children, Laura was born on August 11, 1922, to Marie (Klippenstein) and Peter P. Klassen in the village of Altona. The family moved to the Pembina Hills when Laura was six. They lived in a number of communities in this area for the following 10 years. Upon returning to Altona at the age of 16, Laura completed grade 12. Here she was baptized on confession of her faith at the Altona Bergthaler Church. It was here she met Cornelius Friesen. They were married on August 29, 1943 and lived in the communities of Gretna, Winkler, Reinland before settling in Altona. During these years five children were born to them: Gloria (John Dyck), Gordon (Nita), Linda, Iris, Wilma (Don Johnson). In Altona, Laura created a loving home for her family, supporting her husband in business, and was actively involved in her church community. Laura and Cornelius left Altona in 1968 and moved to Minneapolis, where she took an active role supporting young US adults performing alternative service during the Vietnam War. In 1971 they moved to Winnipeg where grandparenting became part of her life and where she began her involvement with Mennonite Central Committee. In 1981 they moved to Abbotsford, BC where she became co-manager of Ten Thousand Villages for British Columbia. For Laura, these were treasured years filled with volunteer coordinating, traveling throughout BC, as well as journeying overseas meeting the creators of the crafts they distributed. They were also special years being with her other grandchildren. Laura and Cornelius returned to their familiar roots in Manitoba in 2000, settling in Winnipeg. They moved into the Bethel Place community where they thoroughly enjoyed the rest of their days. Laura and Cornelius were married over 67 years. Laura was predeceased by husband Cornelius Friesen in 2010, daughter-in-law Myrna in 2008, her parents and one brother, Walter. She is survived by her children, 10 grandchildren and six great grandchildren, sister Erna, sister-in-law Anne Kroeker and uncle Harry Klippenstein, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. A memorial service for Laura will be held on Monday, March 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Mennonite Church, 465 Stafford St., Winnipeg. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ten Thousand Villages 134 Plaza Drive; Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9 Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 28, 2015
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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My most sincere condolences to all Laura's family. I met Laura while working at Bethel Place. She will be greatly missed. Her sweetness brightened many a day for many people. She was a lovely, kind lady. My prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Dorothy Cook (friend ) on: Apr 01, 2015
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Laura was a great friend. She always cared about others. She will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Mark Olfert (Friend) on: Mar 29, 2015
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Laura was like an older sister to me when we both lived in Mpls. I remember her warm smile and laugh and the beautiful sewing she did for me in my first pregnancy in 1971, albeit C.N. wondered whether I had given Laura enough fabric to sew my dress - I guess he didn't realize it was a mini-skirt or this was how he voiced his concern over a pregnant woman wearing such short skirts. At Gord and Nita's wedding many years later, Laura recalled that occasion and we had a good laugh together. She was still the same warm, affectionate, funny person I got to know many years ago. She was an extraordinary woman with the gift of friendship. - Posted by: Margaret Sawatsky (Friend) on: Mar 28, 2015
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Laura was my oldest cousin. We shared many good times when we were quite young. She was an exceptional lady who was loved by everyone. My family sends to Laura's family our most sincere condolences. - Posted by: stan klippenstein (cousin) on: Mar 28, 2015
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Oh how you will be missed Laura... Laura was one of the most kindest amazing human beings I have ever met..and had been blessed enough to be considered one of her friends. She spent many years volunteering in South Oak Inn at Bethel place where she lived. Could call her any time to help out and she was always so willing and often would change her plans if possible. CN and Laura were an amazing addition to Bethel Place when they moved in many years ago...after CN passed Laura and I had so many wonderful chats and became very close. Have a lovely afghan Laura made and I shall always treasure it. With Laura leaving us..I can here her saying I've had a wonderful long life and now it is time for me to make room for someone else. She always thought of others. My most sincere condolences to the family...she loved and sang all your praises always Hugs & love Angie Stojke - Posted by: Angie Stojke (Friend) on: Mar 28, 2015
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Ike & I send our deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother/grandmother/great-grandmother. Aunt Laura was a lovely and kind lady. We know she will be greatly missed. Ike & Judy Giesbrecht (Hiebert) Niagara Falls, ON - Posted by: Judy Giesbrecht (Niece) on: Mar 28, 2015