Mary Friesen of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away June 2, 2001.

She was born July 15, 1913 to Peter and Elizabeth Giesbrecht in Wohldemfuerst, Kuban, Russia.

The family immigrated to Chihuahua, Mexico in 1924 and to Nelson, B.C. in 1927.

In 1928 they moved to Yarrow, B.C., where Mary worked in the hop yards. She later served as a nanny to 3 children in the Ord family.

At 15, she found assurance of salvation based on John 3:16. She was baptized July 6, 1930 in a river near Yarrow. She enjoyed singing in the church choir.

She married Abe Friesen Oct. 7, 1934. She was involved with the church's ladies' groups, MCC, the Red Cross and the Golden Age Society.

Abe died June 29, 1976. She kept busy with her work with the church, the Red Cross and MCC.

She moved to Menno Terrace for 2 1/2 years and to Menno Home for her last 4 months.

Predeceased by Abe, 1 brother and 2 sisters, she is mourned by children Art, John, Ed and Marlene; 10 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

The funeral was June 7 in Bakerview MB Church, with Rudy Willms and Michael Dick ministering.