Anna Friesen

Anna (Janzen) Friesen passed away peacefully April 1, 2024, at 100 years and 2 months of age!

Anna was born January 31, 1924, at the family home in Hochfeld, SK. She was the ninth of thirteen children born to Maria (Hildebrand) and Johan Janzen. During her early years she spent time with her grandparents and was recognized by her grandfather as making the best bread!

Anna and her sisters always worked together at home cooking, baking, cleaning, and sewing. They spent many hours out in the sun tending to the garden and the cattle.

Anna met Jacob Friesen, from “across the river” and they fell in love. Her attraction began with his musical talents in singing and playing guitar. They were married on July 31, 1944, and started their family of 5 children and later were blessed with number 6!

Their first child, daughter Deanna, was born with a heart defect and due to mom’s faith and care, Deanna grew to an age where she was able to have open-heart surgery. Clifford was next, only 1 year later and closely followed by Harvey. The “boys” helped mom care for Deanna by getting her to school every day. Next up was Rosella and 11 months later, Harriet arrived! Then she took a break and 15 years later…Victoria came on the scene!

They purchased their first home in Warman in 1955 and most of her years were spent in Warman, her home. Anna was active in her Church, Ladies Aide and Community. She blessed many people with her gifts of soup, bread, and buns.  She also enjoyed sewing and made many quilts for her family and the MCC.

Grandchildren were her next joy and she had 19 of them! She also had many Great-Grandchildren and in her later years even Great Great-Grandchildren.

After Jacob passed away, she stayed in her own home for several years. She decided at age 87 to put her name on a list for assisted living accommodations. At age 92, she moved into North View Haven and spent several good years there. As her health declined, she was moved into Diamond House where she spent the last 2 years. She received wonderful loving care while there and loved the food they served. She was always asking if it was time for breakfast or lunch – she didn’t want to miss it!

Anna is survived by her children, Clifford (Susan) Friesen, Rosella (Ronald) Harms, Harriet Melenchuk and Victoria Doell, son-in-law John Reddekopp and daughter-in-law Anna Friesen, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great-grandchildren.

Anna is predeceased by her parents Johan and Maria Janzen, her husband Jacob Friesen, daughter Deanna (Friesen) Redekopp, son Harvey Friesen, son-in-law Steve Melenchuk, granddaughter Tammy (Friesen) Salidas, great-grandson Jake Spencer and all 12 of her siblings and their spouses.

Anna celebrated her 100^th birthday with most of her family in attendance. She was in good spirits and left a lasting impression on everyone. She will be missed by all who knew her.