John Friesen

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. In the early hours of May 16, at the age of 92, John was welcomed into the arms of Jesus; reunited with his beloved wife, Fay; his parents, Isbrand & Margaretha Friesen; three brothers and one sister; and the extended family and friends that had gone before him.

The eldest of eleven children, he is survived by five brothers and one sister. Profoundly missed by his six children and their spouses, 28 grandchildren and spouses, 27 great grandchildren, his large extended family, and many friends.

John was born in Saskatchewan; then, at the age of 18, he moved to BC, where he met and married the love of his life, Fay Harnett. Working and raising his family throughout the Lower Mainland, he settled in South Surrey for the latter years of his life. John’s greatest passions were his love for and commitment to God and to his family. He prayed for each one by name daily. John was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather (also known as “Big Papa”). John is remembered for his warm, engaging, and charming smile. A Gentleman of all Gentlemen. Words that have been used to describe him are: classy, gracious, kind, sweet, solid, man of integrity and character, a wonderful and loving man.

The family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Fraser Health palliative nurses and home support for the care and support Dad and our family received to make it possible to honour Dad’s wish to stay at home. His children had the privilege of caring for him and being by his side for his final months. He passed away peacefully in his sleep.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Peace Portal Alliance Church Missions or a charity of your choice.