On Tuesday, September 9, 2008, 9 days after his 93rd birthday, Grandpa, peacefully in his sleep went to be with his Lord and Savior. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Mary of 59 years, his children Anita (Neil) Friesen, Kathy, Margi (Dennis) Friesen, Shirley (Alex) Toth, David, Richard (Emily), Ken (Sheryl), his sister Rose and brother Ben, 20 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, and other family members. Grandpa was born on August 30, 1915 to Johan and Aganetha Driedger in Gruenthal Village (Gretna), MB. Grandpa spent his first four years there. His father died when he was four years old. His mother then married Isaac Kehler. His life for the next seven years was very unsettled. His family moved frequently trying to keep food on the table. Because they were very poor Grandpa needed to leave home at the age of 11 to look for work in order to support himself and help his family. He spent many years working for different farmers tending livestock, working the land, doing mechanical work and a variety of other jobs. At age 28, Grandpa joined the Royal Winnipeg Rifles and began training for the army. He trained in several places in Manitoba including Winnipeg and Shilo. He also went to the Isle of Wight near England for further training. He was then sent to France to join in the combat there. It was during the time that Grandpa was there that he found the Lord. While there, he was injured and was sent back to Canada via England to recuperate. He met Grandma, and they were married on June 19, 1949. They lived in Morden for 11 years and then Grandpa bought a farm near Dominion City. Grandpa began work as a mechanic in Dominion City and farmed his ½ section of land evenings and weekends. Grandpa suffered a heart attack in 1987. He sold the farn 10 years later and they moved back to Morden and retired there. During their time in Morden they did some traveling and enjoyed life being retired. Four years ago Grandma became ill and Grandpa became her major caregiver. He very generously gave his time and his love to her. The family appreciates the time and patience of the homecare staff and nurses as they visited with them and continue to do so. The last while Grandpa had minor heart problems and early Tuesday morning passed away in his sleep. In spite of the many difficulties that Grandpa faced in his life he was a very generous man, giving freely of his time and money to help anyone in need. He felt God had really blessed them. We will always be thankful for the love and guidance that Grandpa has given to us. The funeral service was held at the Morden EMM Church on Sunday, September 14, 2008 with interment at Chapel Cemetery in Morden.