Raymond James Friesen went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 31, 2011. He was predeceased by his parents John and Mary Friesen, one brother Richard and two sons Arlen Keith and Garreth Brian. Raymond is survived by his wife Trudie (Plett), son Kent, daughter-in-law (Garreth’s wife) Elaine (Wiebe), three grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, one sister and five brothers. Growing up in Steinbach, Raymond and his family attended Steinbach EMC where he would eventually meet Trudie through involvement in the youth group. Raymond and Trudie were married on July 7, 1957 at Steinbach EMC. In 1980 Raymond, Trudie and son Kent moved to Abbotsford, BC and lived there for twenty-five years. Raymond’s health became an increasing concern and in 2005 he and Trudie moved back to Steinbach to be closer to family. Raymond will be missed and remembered fondly. His sense of humor, creative abilities, loving concern for family, warm smile, and generous heart were an inspiration to family and friends. He is dearly loved. Raymond has finished the race and joins that “great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1). Gone forever are the burdens he carried and the sorrows of this life. The funeral service was held Tuesday, September 6 at 2:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel in Steinbach with interment at Heritage Cemetery. To husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, friend: “See you in the morning.”