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KENNETH (KEN) FRIESS
Born: Jul 26, 1958
Date of Passing: Dec 29, 2024
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryKENNETH (KEN) FRIESS
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ken Friess on December 29, 2024. Ken's quick wit, humour, and zest for life impacted everyone who knew him. Whether making sharp comments, cracking a joke at the least expected moment, or sharing his unfiltered thoughts, Ken’s humour was a gift that never failed to entertain.
Ken leaves behind his beloved wife Joan Friess; his daughters, Jennifer Schappert (Kyle) and Kristen Friess (Gillian); and his precious twin grandbabies, Saoirse and Sawyer. The twins had a special piece in his heart, and he was a highly involved Grampy.
Born in Edmonton and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Ken is predeceased by his parents, Dee and Len Friess; in-laws, Marg and Gord Firby; great-uncle Robert Friess; and infant sister Valerie. He is survived by his siblings, Joan Wood (Glen), Peggy Miller (Marvin), John Friess (Caroline), Jim Friess (Sherry); in-laws, Anne Hall (Brian), Jim Firby (Bonita), Dave Firby (Joan), and Patti Russell (Dave); and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Ken spent his childhood playing with friends in the streets of St. James and eventually had many summers at the family island on Lake of the Woods. He built a successful career in Sales in the Plumbing and Heating industry. Ken always knew how to make a sale, a connection, or a joke that would make you forget you were there to talk business.
Ken met Joan when he was just 20 years old, and over the next 46 years, the two created a life rich in love and laughter. Together, they raised their daughters in Charleswood, where Ken was a devoted, caring father, and supportive husband. His family was his world, and he was the glue that kept them all together. The Friess home was known for its warmth, laughter, and the unmistakable sound of Ken’s voice telling stories – or, more often than not, jokes.
Ken had a passion for aviation, from his love of flight simulators and airshows to listening to stories from his nephew Jamie, a pilot. His interest in planes was matched only by his talent for cartooning. Although his cartoons were often politically incorrect, they always drew laughter from anyone fortunate enough to see them.
Music was another constant in Ken's life. Whether singing along to 40s tunes or attending concerts, Ken's joy for music was contagious, and he loved sharing tunes with loved ones. He was also a major history buff and loved all things JFK, and Second World War.
Throughout the years, Ken and Joan spent time in Maui, Granite Lake, and eventually their retirement home in Mesa, Arizona. There, they continued building memories, making lifelong friends, and enjoying each moment to the fullest.
Ken battled Pulmonary Fibrosis from 2020 until his passing, but throughout his illness, his humor and love for his family never wavered. His grandbabies were a constant source of joy and motivation for him to keep fighting. Although he was approved for a double lung transplant, the call never came. The family is grateful to the transplant team and the healthcare staff at HSC unit GH6 for their care and compassion. In his memory, we encourage everyone to sign up to be an organ donor.
Ken will be remembered as a man who lived life with humor, generosity, and an open heart. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in his family and all who were lucky enough to know him.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 5th, at The Winnipeg Winter Club located at 200 River Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.
Rest in peace Ken, the world is a little less funny without you, but we will keep laughing in your honour.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 04, 2025
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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I had the great pleasure to meet Ken at Jones Goodridge. His off color jokes, stories and his huge heart were an essential part of his character as breathing to others. Ken was fiercely loyal and devoted to his family. Ken was so proud of his wife, daughters and his grandchildren. He was excited beyond words. Ken was waiting forever to be a grandfather. He relished this new role. Ken's excitement for this new adventure was off the charts. He could barely contain himself. I can honestly say that I enjoyed all events and conversations with Ken while I had worked in the plumbing trade. Ken you were amazing. You gladly shared your knowledge with product. Ken; heaven has gained an unruly angel. The show will be worth his antics and showmanship. To all whom loved Ken; my deepest sympathies to you during this time of sorrow. My heartfelt prayers for strength. Ken was an amazing person, will not be forgotten. Ken this isn't goodbye. It is until we meet again. It will be a privilege. Vichnya Pamyhat Susan Bordun - Posted by: Susan Bordun (Friend) on: Jan 19, 2025
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Ken was my Sales Rep when I worked at Flo Form. As well as doing business together we went on many Golf trips. He was kind, fair, funny , persuasive and very talkative ! You would think that he kissed the Blarney Stone! He was truly one of the best! Rest in Peace Ken. Joe Cunningham - Posted by: Joseph Cunningham (Work Colleague) on: Jan 15, 2025
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Ken was one of my sales reps for many years. I was shocked to learn a few years ago that he was married to Joan who I went to school with at John Taylor. I then discovered that his sister Joan was my in-laws neighbour for many years on Hamilton. This is a small city for sure! Ken was so much fun to work with and very dedicated to customer service. He will be sorely missed. Cathy Gilmore (nee McDonald) - Posted by: Cathy Gilmore (work friend) on: Jan 10, 2025
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I am so sorry to see that Kenny passed away. I lived behind the Friess family and our Moms were friends. I went to school with sisters Joan and Peggy. He was one of the annoying little brothers at that time. Sounds like he grew up to be a wonderful man. I hope that all your memories give you strength and support you through this stressful time. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Lorraine (Penn) MacLennan (Old friend of his sisters) on: Jan 07, 2025
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Deepest sympathies for your loss. Ken was a unique and special person who impacted everyone who had the pleasure to know him. I will miss the good talks and laughs we had. Hoping his memories will support you at this difficult time. Sincerely.... Jim Krovats - Posted by: jim krovats (friend and former business associated) on: Jan 07, 2025
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Roger and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of Ken. Our condolences to Joan and the family. We have fond memories of our time on Evesham as your neighbours. Also in Mesa. We always enjoyed his company. Ken really made our block parties fun. Take care Joan. Ken will be missed. - Posted by: Roger Matas & Irene White (friends) on: Jan 05, 2025
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Ken was a very special guy in our industry. Besides his great sense of humour, Ken made sure what he said-would get done as one of the top agents in the local plumbing industry! Condolences to the family and may Ken smile down on all who knew him. - Posted by: Ross Robinson (Business friend) on: Jan 05, 2025
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I knew Ken in our school days but my most vivid memories are from grade 9 at Ness Jr High. We were in the same home room in the science lab so we sat at round tables of 4. There were so many laughs I don't think we learned anything. We got to know "Ace" Adamanchuck, the principal, on a first name basis. My condolences to the family. RIP Ken. - Posted by: Wayne Horsman (School friends ) on: Jan 04, 2025
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Kenny was our baby brother the youngest of five. He was always laughing and joking. He was a cartoonist and witty and kind and generous and very loving and we will miss him dearly. Love you Kenny. RIP free from all pain. - Posted by: Joan &Glenn Wood (Sister&brother in law ) on: Jan 04, 2025
