BERNHARD THIESSEN

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BERNHARD THIESSEN
July 15, 1936 - February 28, 2021

It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Ben Thiessen, on February 28, 2021, at Riverview Health Centre, at the age of 84.
Remaining to cherish Ben's memory, his wife of almost 10 years, Mary; sons and daughters, Michael (Heather), Wanda (Greg), Angela (Pierre), Jeffrey (Blair), Roxanne (Jim); Mary's children, Gordon (Darlene), Timothy, Edward (Erika), Lisa (Adam); 10 grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 10 step-great-grandchildren; brother, Henry; and many extended family and friends.
Ben is predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Myrna (nee Holmberg); his parents, Abram A. and Maria Thiessen, and 10 siblings.
Ben was born on July 15, 1936. He spent his youth in the Rhineland area of Manitoba. Later he moved to Winnipeg, where he met Myrna while working at the Royal Alexandra Hotel. Ben and Myrna were married on September 29, 1956, in Minnedosa and started their family in Winnipeg. Throughout his life Ben worked with his hands, using his innate carpentry skills, designing, creating, repairing, restoring. Skills that brought much joy to his children, remembering the many times he chose to create gifts with his own hands. Each summer in the 1970s/1980s the family would travel Canada/U.S. in a camper he custom-made; an old Eaton's delivery van which he fashioned into a home on wheels. Creating memories yet again. We will remember his many hobbies: making music, model train sets, painting sceneries, gardening, family gatherings, and visits to the Mennonite Heritage Museum. Ben also served as a valued member of the military, holding an MP designation and driving for the Lieutenant Governor.
Ben lost his first wife, Myrna, in 2009, but found love again with Mary. They married on March 12, 2011. The family is grateful he shared his remaining years with her, she made him happy and was by his side.
Ben was a committed Christian, who loved God and loved the church community. A commitment his parents instilled in his youth.
The family would like to thank the hospital staff and all who reached out over the last few months.
A Celebration of Life for Ben will be held at a later date.

Condolences can be left at richardrosin.ca

If our love could have kept you here, you would still be with us. One day we will hold hands and embrace again. Sleep in peace.

Richard Rosin
Funeral Director Ltd.
204-219-1126
richardrosin.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 13, 2021