Maria Friesen died May 18, 2011 at 93. She was born Aug. 7, 1917 in Blumenort, Russia to Gerhard and Maria Goetz. The family immigrated to Paraguay in 1930. When Maria’s infant sibling died, Maria’s father dedicated himself to God and began family devotions; a year later, in 1932, Maria invited Christ into her heart. She was baptized Dec. 3, 1933, and was one of the pioneer volunteers at “Light to the Indians” mission. Maria married Jakob A. Friesen Mar. 6, 1937, in Fernheim, Paraguay. Maria plowed alongside her husband, happy to harvest when the grasshoppers did not get the crop. She entertained boarders, and baked and sewed for the co-op. In 1967, due to Jakob’s failing health, the Friesens followed their married sons to Vancouver. In 1972, they moved to Abbotsford, B.C., where Maria worked at Tabor Home. Maria loved cooking at the community centre. Jakob died November 1997. Maria kept busy baking, collecting clothes, and sewing for missions. In 2007, Maria moved into Tabor Court. She was hospitalized in 2009 due to many falls and moved to Menno Home. Maria was a member of Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C. Predeceased by Jakob, Maria is mourned by children George (Susie), Jake (Elvira), Lydia (Peter) Epp, Willy (Frieda), Erika (Harry) Dueck, Mary (John) Plett, Herb (Anneliese), Elsie (Herb) Friesen, Elvira Braun; 27 grandchildren and their 24 spouses; 54 great-grandchildren and their 2 spouses; 7 siblings.
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