Dad passed away peacefully at Grunthal Menno Home, with his family at his side, on March 23, 2002 at 8:30 p.m. He reached the age of 80 years, 11 months, and 23 days. He is lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his children: William and Elvira Enns of Tourond, Elizabeth Friesen of Burnaby, BC, Martha & Harry Kehler of Randolph, Edward & Marlene Friesen of New Bothwell, Helen Friesen of Vancouver, BC, Peter & Laurel Friesen of New Bothwell, Anne & Archie Sauchereau of Winnipeg, Maria Friesen & Bill Martin of Abbotsford, BC; as well 24 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. He is also survived by five sisters and two brothers. He was predeceased by his wife Elma, in May 1998, son Johnny in infancy, by his parents Cornelious & Maria Friesen. He was also predeceased by three sisters, five brothers, and one great granddaughter in infancy. He was married to Elma Doerksen on July 22, 1943. Together they shared 54 years. They raised their family and farmed at the Friesen homestead at New Bothwell, which still remains in the family. He was a caring and compassionate father, and also always willing to help others. He was blessed with a great sense of humor. He was involved as school trustee, and director, and president of Bothwell Cheese Factory. He was involved with Waisenamt for many years. He was executor for many estates. Dad enjoyed reading, woodwork, welding and blacksmith. Dad was born on the farm, and lived there until they retired and moved to Steinbach in May of 1985. After Mom passed away, he moved to Cedarwood Apts.; then to Grunthal Menno Home in March 2000, where he lived until he passed away. The family would like to send a special thanks to the staff at Grunthal Menno Home for all the special care they provided for Dad. The funeral service for Diedrich M. Friesen was held Thursday, March 28, 2002 at the Sommerfeld Church, New Bothwell, MB. Interment at the Osterwick Cemetery.