It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Albert Driedger on Monday, July 18, 2011. Albert is survived by his beloved wife Mary, and children Marilyn (Richard), Diane (Steve), Laurie (Curt), Gordon (Pam), and Sandi (Edward); grandchildren Shaun (Ang), Lee (Alisa), Sheryl (Paul), Michael (Kristen), Matthew, Alex, Tyler, Nick, Tori, Josh, Mika, Calin, and Ian; great grandchildren Ethan, Sara, Noah, Ryan, Payton, Hayden, and Cait. He is also survived by siblings Lena, John (Judy), (Jake), Johanna (Lloyd), Fred (Shirley), and Vic (Cindy). Albert was predeceased by his parents John and Lena, and his sister Eleanor and brother-in-law Jake. Albert was born in Steinbach, Manitoba January 18, 1936. He attended the University of Manitoba on a scholarship won through 4H. Albert had a variety of jobs, including delivering bread, and shoveling coal for the railroad. In 1958 he married Mary Penner, and the two would journey together with love for 52 years. Albert moved back to Grunthal in 1962 to return to the family farm. Along with working on the farm he also became involved in politics. Between 1967 and 1972, he served as reeve for the municipality of Hanover. In 1977 he left farming and was elected to the Manitoba Legislature and served as MLA till 1999. He was Minister of Highways and Transportation from 1988 to 1993, Minister of Government services from 1988 to 1991, and Minister of Natural Resources from 1993 to 1997. Albert was also involved in various other community boards and organizations including the Elim Mennonite Church, and most recently the Grunthal Menno Home. Albert loved to fish and hunt, and he and Mary spent many weekends together with family and friends on the lake. He will be greatly missed. The family wants to thank the staff at St. Pierre Hospital and the staff at the Health Science Centre for the wonderful care they gave Albert and the whole family. A viewing will take place on Thursday, July 21 at 7:00 p.m., at Steinbach Mennonite Church, 345 Loewen Blvd. in Steinbach. The funeral will take place on Friday, July 22 at 2:00 .p.m. at the Steinbach Mennonite Church. Interment at the Grunthal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Menno Home Foundation, Box 280; Grunthal, MB R0A 0R0.