John K. Friesen of Steinbach passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer at the Bethesda Hospital on Sunday September 1, 2013 at the age of 66 years. He is survived by his wife Agatha (nee Penner), one daughter Darlene (and Mike Reid), three sons Wayne (and Becky), James (and Christina), Jeff (and Trish) and 15 grandchildren as well as by two sisters and two brothers. He was predeceased by his parents Peter W. and Elizabeth Friesen and seven siblings. John was born in the Steinbach area, then moved to Mexico at age one. From ages 17 to 22 he travelled between Mexico and Canada. In 1969 he met Agatha in Mexico; a year and a half later they married. 42 years later Agatha was by his side as he took his final breath. John enjoyed landscaping, travelling, woodworking projects, going for coffee and riding motorcycle. He spent most of his career as a driver at Penner International. Viewing will be held at Birchwood Funeral Chapel in Steinbach on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00 p.m. with a devotional at 7:30 p.m. and at the church prior to the service. The funeral service will be held at the Chortitzer Mennonite Church, 479 Hanover St, in Steinbach on Thursday, September 5 at 2:00 p.m. with interment at the Heritage Cemetery. If friends so desire donations may be made to the Bethesda Foundation, 316 Henry St., Steinbach, MB R5G 0P9. Special thanks to the CancerCare and Palliative Care staff.