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HELMUT FRIESEN Obituary pic

HELMUT FRIESEN

Born: Dec 23, 1938

Date of Passing: Feb 23, 2015

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HELMUT FRIESEN Peacefully, at home, with his family by his side, Helmut Friesen went to be with his Saviour on Monday, February 23, 2015. Left to cherish many wonderful memories are his wife of 52 years, Gretta Friesen; his children David, Donna Melsness (Mark), Lorna Sherlock (Alan); his siblings Orlando (Mary), Walter (Marge) and Erna Hamilton (Bob); and his grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Jacob, Isaac, Breana, Alyssa, Riley, Eli and Tola and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother Maria (Ewert), his father John Friesen and his brother, Werner. Helmut Friesen was born in St. Boniface on December 23, 1938. He grew up on the family farm in Manitou, Manitoba and left home in his teens to graduate from MCI in Gretna, Manitoba in 1957. After successfully writing his Canadian certification examinations with the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists in 1960 and the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists in 1961, his first work placement was Carberry, Manitoba, where he established the first laboratory and x-ray unit. Helmut worked hard at advancing the status of Medical laboratory technologists in Manitoba and throughout Canada. Helmut had many health problems throughout his life but never let any of them stop him from living his life and used them for helping others. In 1992, after having an ilieostomy, he became very involved with the Ostomy Association. For many years, Helmut was Chairman of Bethel Baptist Church's leadership board and had many other positions at the church throughout his life. Helmut loved to cook and always wanted to make sure no one ever went away hungry. Family and friends enjoyed his playful sense of humour. Helmut loved to help others in his quiet manner and would give of himself generously. Thanks to Michelle and all of the Palliative Care Team who took wonderful care of Helmut. Thanks also to Yemmy who was a special encouragement near the end. Funeral service will be held on Friday, February 27, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. at Westwood Community Church, 401 Westwood Drive, Winnipeg with viewing prior to the service. Interment in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations can be made to Bethel Baptist Church's Handicap Facility Fund.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 25, 2015

Condolences & Memories (15 entries)

  • I moved into the area in 1985 and almost from day 1, Helmut and his family came to my rescue. Within a few weeks he assisted securing my home after a break-in when my husband was out of town. Our friendship grew over the back yard fence and soon the Friesens included me in many family events. Helmut seemed to sense when I had a problem or was lonely and with his helping hands or humour made everything better. I missed them when they moved away a few years ago, and although they kept in touch I didn't reciprocate in the way I should have. I regret that. But as his illness wore on, we always seemed to be down with the flu, I experienced shingles, and a few other contagious bugs so I didn't want to inflict them upon his already weakened state. Helmut was a rarity when it came to helping others without hesitation. To the entire family, I want to express our sincerest condolences. Thank you Helmut for everything you did for me as well as my family. I am thankful for having you in our lives. - Posted by: Joanna LaForte (neighbour and friend) on: Feb 27, 2015

  • I met Helmut last year in October at an ostomy meeting as I needed support from my surgery that I had in February. I was reminded that my dad (who passed away in 1999), Gerald Elias had worked with a gentleman named Helmut. I asked Helmut if he knew my dad, which he did and Helmut started reminiscing about the many projects that he and my dad worked on. I so enjoyed talking with Helmut. I send my heartfelt condolences to your family. - Posted by: Deanne () on: Feb 27, 2015

  • My sincere condolences to Helmut's family. Helmut was both a professional mentor as well as a dear friend. He was always available to provide advice, guidance and support. I learned much from him over the years. He was a true professional and gentleman. I will miss him dearly. - Posted by: Tricia VanDenakker (Friend) on: Feb 27, 2015

  • We found Helmut to be very friendly to everyone at WOA, and we enjoyed his humourous outlook on life. Dave enjoyed serving as one of Helmut's team of drivers to pick up un-needed ostomy supplies. - Posted by: Dave & Carole Osborne (Friends at Manitoba Ostomy Assn.) on: Feb 26, 2015

  • To the Friesen Family, our deepest sympathy to all of you for the loss of Helmut. And thank you for being our trusted neighbours for so many years. Helmut always showed his care and concern for all of our neighbors. You are truly missed! Love and prayers from the Desilets' Marcel, Karen, Kami & Jed. - Posted by: Karen Desilets ( Our Neighbors for 33 years.) on: Feb 26, 2015

  • Dear Gretta & family, Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. We're so sorry we can't be with you. We are with our children in Quebec. My earliest memories of Helmut are from Carberry where he worked in the Lab & I worked as a Nurse many years ago. Then you Gretta joined the nursing staff there. After you got married we did many activities together. May God be your courage & strength at this time. Much Love, Abe & Adeline - Posted by: Abe & Adeline Wiebe (Friends for many iyears) on: Feb 26, 2015

  • Best neighbor. Protective when I leave the garage door open, when strange vehicles park in the drive way, when hail damaged my car, gave notice when he had to cut the grass before 9 am. Let everyone know when he is on holiday. Call everyone to check out his binocular. Always protective to all around him. Very sad to see him leave and sold his home. He would be proud to see a young couple took over his home and renovate the home and yard to make sure that they will be there for the long run. They have 2 young children and have every intention to stay on for a very long time. We thank you for being the best neighbor ever. God bless. From Tara, Bheesham, Amrita & Family - Posted by: Amrita Dabee (neighbour) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • Known Helmut for many, many years since starting to work in lab in 1971. Very professional & knowledgeable man. Would always help you as best he could. He leaves behind a working legacy for others to follow. My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Gail Holmes (Friend -med Lab technologist) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • My heartfelt condolences to Helmut's family. I trained with Helmut, Albert, Roger, Jean, Jane & Marvis in the Mb. medical lab & X-ray program. Helmut always had a quiet sense of confidence & generosity as he devoted himself to our profession for many years. - Posted by: Patricia Strong ((former colleague)) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • I first met Helmut in 1972 when he came north to find candidates for the then "Laxus" program. He was both kind and intimidating at the same time and did his job well. I stayed in the north and the opportunities I had to meet with him through the profession over the years were always very good. He was a true professional and served the province well. I became involved with the college(CMLTM) a few years ago when he was registrar and remember him as a mentor and a friend. My condolences to you all on your loss. A loss to all of us - Posted by: Barbara Lyons (Professional - Medical Lab) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • On behalf of CMLTM Council, Committees and staff, I would like to extend heartfelt condolences on Helmut's passing. Helmut was always willing to share his knowledge and experience as he served as the CMLTM Registrar during the early building stages of the College. Helmut will be missed. - Posted by: Adam Chrobak (Colleague from CMLTM) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • Dear Mrs. Friesen, Donna, Lorna, David and families; I am saddened to learn of your loss. I have found memories of Mr. Friesen in my teenage years. He was a kind man and I enjoyed many times in your home playing Dutch Blitz and other games with your family. I remember his sense of humor well as it made me and Donna as teenagers, groan, but smile inside! My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. - Posted by: Kim Robb (Friend) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • My condolences to the family. I trained in Medical Lab and X-ray 1967 - 1970 under Mr. Friesen's supervision; and worked in the provincial diagnostic service for a number of years. - Posted by: Isabel (Fraser) Acheson (former student) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • I originally got to know Helmut in my teen years as a friend of his daughters. He was always the life of the room and was constantly cracking jokes and and drawing everyone in with his energy. I never left his house without being fed and made to feel like it was my second home. I will always remember those years, and him, with fondness and he will be missed. - Posted by: Sandra Buzza (Long time family friend ) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • Condolences to the family. I will miss him. He helped me in my career. I will always remember his kindness. - Posted by: Betty Anderson (Friend Medical Lab. Technologist) on: Feb 25, 2015

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