John died with dignity and grace, in accordance with the will and at the call of the LORD. He was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa, who lived a hundred lifetimes in 85 years and loved to tell stories. His memory will be lovingly cherished by Loretta, his wife of 61 years; children Greg (Melinda), Darrel (Peggy), Lauri, Alana (Nelson) and Brenda (Dave); grandchildren Bridgitte (Mike), Kassandra (Ty), Nathaniel (Amanda), Nadia, Alexandra, Aiden and Ethan; greatgrandchildren Gage, Charlotte, Jude, Asher, Eli, Adam, Harvey and Mabel.
John was born in Swift Current, Saskatchewan on September 26, 1935. He was the oldest of ten brothers and sisters. His family moved to Coaldale and then to Fort Vermilion in 1953. He met Loretta at the Fort Vermilion curling rink in 1959. The two wed that December and had the first of five children nine months later. The growing family moved to John’s beloved Peace River in 1961, where he set up Friesen Automotive Enterprises and served as mayor for nine years. Although John and Loretta followed their children to Edmonton in 1984, a part of his heart always remained with the beautiful Peace River valley.
A private family funeral will be held. Memorial donations may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Spruce Grove.
Serenity Funeral Service, Spruce Grove 780.962.2749
Tribute wall - a place to share your memories and condolences
Ernie and Gladys Marshall
Our sincere sympathy to Loretta and the family at this time of separation. We will always remember as a fine person, businessman and citizen. He was an outstanding Mayor of Peace River and constantly was concerned about the best interests of every person who lived or visited there.
He set an example for young and old and will be missed.
Darwin Park
Our condolences and sincerest sympathy to Loretta and family. John was a treasure. Betty and I loved getting together for breakfasts & lunches. Conversations with John were memorable… always spirited, opinionated and full of energy. John’s stories of a lifetime of hard work and wide ranging experience were colorful. His faith, love of family, work associates and community underpinned his life commitments. We feel blessed to have known John and share in his life.
Sincerely
Darwin & Betty Park
Phyllis Kobasiuk
My sincere sympathy in the passing of your beloved husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather. Take comfort in knowing the life of John touched many in loving, caring and wonderful ways. John cared deeply about his family, his faith and his community. Special thoughts for a great gentleman.
Abe Silverman
I am so sorry to hear of Johns passing. I had hoped that we would both recover from our health problems and we could have got together for a cup of coffee and talk about the the good days. I guess I will have to wait to join him
Condolences and good wishes to the entire family