William (Willy) Friesen

Obituary

William Friesen, age 86, of Steinbach, MB., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Bethesda Regional Health Centre, Steinbach, MB. He was “Willy” to all who knew him.

He is survived by three daughters, Helga, Pauline (Andrew), Wanda and three sons, Rudy (Erna), Adolf (Rene) and Dennis (Ruth). His grandchildren Melissa (Mike), Kelsey (Colton), Jared (Brittany), Dustyn (Veronica), Liam, Nate, Kalem, Hannah (Michael), Rysa (Humberto), Elli, Abby, Tyler, Connor, Casey (David), Dana (Thomas), Ena, Myla, and seven great-grandchildren, Jane, Finnley, Callahan, Axton, Evren, Zion, and Luca. He is also survived by his siblings Trudy (Frank), Lisa (Werner) and Peter (Susie).

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Helen, son Hans, daughter Nettie and grandchildren Cody and Barett. His siblings Anna (Isaak), Jacob (Sara), Maria (Johan), Martin (Elizabeth), Helena (Jacob), Johan (Elizabeth), and Katarina.

Willy was born in Paraguay where he met Helen. They were married on March 5th, 1961 and began their family. They moved to Canada in 1966 and settled in the Steinbach area. The word “settled” is used loosely as he moved his family to various homes that he renovated or built. He worked at Loewen Windows until be started his own construction business and built barns and homes for 40 years. He was known for his practicality, niftiness, and fun-loving nature. Which was evident as he played with his kids and grandkids. He also enjoyed watching a good game on TV. He loved camping and road trips throughout Canada and the US. He was self-taught in playing the accordion, guitar, piano, harmonica and the violin and would play and sing for church, care homes and family gatherings. Willy leaves a legacy of loving and serving God with a whole heart. He served his church, community and family faithfully and generously. We will cherish the memories and miss him deeply.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bethesda Regional Health Centre for the exceptional care he received.

The livestreamed funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with viewing beginning at 10:30 a.m.

The interment will take place at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, MB.