MARY KLIEWER (FROESE)

APRIL 20, 1928 - JULY 19, 2020

It is with mixed grieving and rejoicing that we announce the passing of Mary Kliewer to her heavenly home to be with Jesus at the age of 92.

Mary was born in Einlage, Ukraine to Jacob and Susanna Froese and was the oldest of 4 daughters. She and her sisters and mother shared an epic journey to find refuge during the tumultuous years of WWII. Help came from the Mennonite Central Committee and they were allowed to immigrate to Canada under the sponsorship of relatives in Yarrow.

After a short time in Yarrow, Mary moved to Vancouver to find employment. There she met John Kliewer at First United Mennonite Church and they were married on August 30, 1953. Mary was a homemaker who was happy to be home with her 4 children, sewing, cooking and baking, gardening, and providing a safe and happy place for her family to grow up in. She also enjoyed needlework, filling their home with many amazing pictures, and knitting. As her family grew older, she became more involved in her church’s ladies’ ministry, taking on the leadership for many years. Mary liked to be active. She bowled for many years, right up until she was 88 years old, and she and John went for long walks every day until John was no longer able to do so. She loved her family dearly and was thrilled when grandchildren and then great-grandchildren were added to the family. Mary loved the Lord and left a legacy of faith.

The family is grateful for the care and concern shown Mom while she lived in Menno Place Terrace West and our heartfelt thanks go to the Menno Hospital staff for the compassionate care that Mom received in her last few months of life.

Mary was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, John Kliewer, on November 11, 2017, and her two sisters, Jutta Vogt and Hilda Claassen. She will be greatly missed by her children, Linda and Ernie Janzen, Cindy and Kim Friesen, Harry and Kathy Kliewer, Ed and Cathy Kliewer, 12 grandchildren and their spouses, and 16 great-grandchildren.

A private family Memorial Service was held on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at the Maclure Road Mennonite Cemetery.