It is with deep sadness that we announce the tragic passing of Katelyn Marianne Friesen, on Friday, July 25, 2008, in a motor vehicle accident near Hecla Island, at the age of 18 years. Left to cherish Katelyn’s memory are her parents, Roger and Anita Friesen, her brother, Tyrone and fiancé Kelly, sister Bethany and brother Nathan. Also deeply mourning her passing are her grandparents, Abe and Annie Brandt of Riverton and Milton and Mary Friesen of Arborg, and her Brandt and Friesen aunts, uncles and many cousins. Katelyn was born in Arborg, on December 22, 1989. She attended Arborg Elementary School, Mennville Christian School then completed and received her high school diploma at the Riverton Collegiate institute. Katelyn was a busy child who loved to write stories, dress-up, play dolls and loved to have friends over to play and have sleep overs. Katelyn was an exceptional student, both academically and athletically, which culminated in numerous awards at her graduation in June, including the Governor General’s Medal and Citizenship award. She spent many hours playing and coaching volleyball, tutored younger students and was the president of the 2008 Grad committee. She had received her acceptance from the University of Winnipeg for September to obtain her degree in education and counselling. She was currently employed at the Hecla Campground office, enjoying her duties and time spent with co-workers and campers. Her previous employment at Riverton Agri Auto was a place she met a lot of people and developed countless friendships. At the age of 17 she chose baptism to show her decision to live for Jesus her Saviour. She lived out her faith in the most practical ways by always reaching out to others. She will forever be remembered as the compassionate friend who cared and listened. Katelyn loved to surround herself with people and had many special friends. She connected with everyone she met. Her amazing smile and caring personality impacted those she met on a daily basis. She will be dearly missed by her special friend Trent and countless other friends. Katelyn, we were blessed with your incredible love during your short life on earth. We have you in our hearts and cherish every memory of you. We will again be with you real soon. But until then we miss you beyond words can say. The family expresses great appreciation to the Riverton EMS, Fire Department and RCMP for their assistance. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. at the Riverton Hall with viewing prior to the service. Burial will follow at the Mennville EMC Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Evergreen Foundation, Gimli, MB or Inner City Youth Alive, Winnipeg, MB (where Katelyn had planned to volunteer this winter).