It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Bill Giesbrecht on Thursday, August 13, 2009 at the St. Pierre Hospital. He was surrounded by his family and we can only hope that this gave him some measure of comfort and peace. He was born on June 4, 1933 in the RM of Hanover and grew up in the New Bothwell area. He married Helen Hiebert on August 1, 1959. He is survived by his beloved wife Helen; four children - Teresa and husband Brian Pasieka, Curt, Doug, Bonita and husband Charles Friesen, and four grandchildren, Ashton, Chelsea, Lindsay and Tyler Friesen. He also leaves to mourn six sisters, nine brothers, and one adopted brother and their families. He will be missed by Helen's brothers and sister as well as his mother-in-law with whom he had a special relationship. He was predeceased by his father William Giesbrecht in 1967 and by his mother Maria Giesbrecht in 1986. Bill was actively involved in volunteering in the community throughout his life, serving on numerous boards and committees. One of Bill's greatest passions was the Grunthal Volunteer Fire Department where he served for 27 years, many of those as Chief. He enjoyed visiting with his many friends and family and loved to spend time with all of his coffee buddies at Table 7 in Grunthal Garden. He loved travel, particularly his numerous trips to Hawaii and a trip to Europe. Many great times were spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren at the family cottage at Falcon Lake and he was happiest when we were all around him. Bill became ill in February 2009 and fought his battle with dignity and courage. He never complained and was always concerned about the welfare of others around him, even as his health declined. He maintained a positive outlook and continued to enjoy the activities he loved. We want to thank our many friends and family for their many acts of kindness, visits and calls during the past six months - Dad truly looked forward to them and enjoyed them all. Many thanks to Dr. Migally, Dr. Kumar , Dr. Krahn, Pauline, and all the wonderful staff at the St. Pierre Hospital - you embraced not only our Dad but our entire family. If people wish, donations can be made to St. Pierre Hospital, Palliative Care Program, South Eastman Health, Box 88, St. Pierre, Manitoba, R0A 1V0 or Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), 134 Plaza Dr, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9 Viewing will be held Monday, August 17, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. with a short devotional at 7:30 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Dr, Steinbach. Funeral service will be held Tuesday, August 18 at the Word of Life Church, 233 Third S, Niverville at 2:00 p.m. with interment to follow at the Hiebert Heritage Cemetery. Lunch will be served at the church after the interment.