Obituary of Leonard Friesen

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Peter (Leonard) Friesen on Monday, September 2, 2024, with his loving family by his side.

Leonard bravely battled cancer for many years with no complaints and he left to cherish his memory his wife Erna, daughter Cheryl (Howard), his son Dale (Sandra), his grandchildren Brandon (Kara), Keaton, Noah (Julianne), Rhys, Justin (Fern) and Alexandra and great-grandchildren Declan, Adelynn, Autumn, Juno, step children Gail (Bill), Maury (Melissa), step grandchildren Harley, Narcisso, Chauneece, Sydney (Jaycob), Alyssa, step great-grandchildren Victor, Paloma, Zxmarah, Aniyah and a sister, in-laws, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Leonard was predeceased by his first wife Betty (Liese) Froese, his parents Henry T & Mary and Peter H & Helena, brother Larry, son-in-law Ron and grandson Ethan.

Dad was born on March 21, 1941 at Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach. He lived in Grunthal all his life. He worked for his parents lumber yard and later built a turkey farm outside of town. He married Betty (Liese) Froese on May 25, 1961 and they enjoyed their life together for 51 years. They began their married life in town and later moved to the farm. They adopted two children, Cheryl and Dale to complete their family.

Dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March of 1995. It was decided that they would move to town in 2006 and their son Dale bought the farm. Betty was diagnosed with hepatic cancer and passed away March 3, 2012.

In the fall of 2014 Dad met Erna and they enjoyed many dances and Fall suppers while dating. They developed a close relationship and later married on July 11, 2015. Erna was by Dad's side as he struggled with his health and was by his side on his last day.

The funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB. To join the family via livestream, click HERE prior to the service. 

Donations in memory of Leonard may be made to Menno Home Foundation of Grunthal Inc.