Elma Friesen

Born in Aberdeen, Saskatchewan on June 14,1929, Elma Friesen knew what it was like to grow up in Canada, during the cold Aberdeen winters, among a small Mennonite community.

She would recall the one room schoolhouse and her fond memories of teachers and students, learning over a hot cup of cocoa as they endured the weather.

She moved to B.C. with her family in 1945 and settled in a little town called Clearbrook. Shortly after, Elma answered an employment ad that a fish processing plant in Steveston had posted. They were seeking young capable women to work in the plant. She was hired. Over the years she mentioned that the money was good and the hours were long during the post WWII era.

As a young adult, Elma met and married John Friesen and would go on to have 5 children (Andrew, Luella, Ernie, Dan, Irma). They purchased a small farm in Abbotsford, B.C. She invested her life raising children, harvesting and canning fruit, and tending to a large garden.

As Elma grew in her domestic life, she became well known for her hospitality, cooking and baking. She was famous for her garden rhubarb pancakes, perogies, homemade bread and buns. During the summer months, raspberry picking helped earn income for her family. Like a hen with her chicks, she was often seen with her family, gathering fruit during the warm months of June during Abbotsford’s raspberry season.

Later in life, Elma worked as a salesperson for Electrolux and was awarded “Top Sales Person” for all of B.C. and won a trip to Montreal.

Of all of the things that could be said about Elma, it was her unflinching faith in God that sustained her through many difficult years. She did her best to love and care for her family and provide for them, sacrificing herself many times in an effort to help support them.

During her golden years she was known for her kind words and gentle ways. She was very accepting and tried to find value in everyone she met.

We celebrate you today. You will be deeply missed. We love you Mom!

Surely goodness and mercy will follow me

All the days of my life

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

Forever

Ps. 23

A funeral service for Elma will be held Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 2310 Clearbrook Road, Abbotsford, BC V2T2X5.

Following the funeral service will be a graveside at 2:00 PM at Hazelwood Cemetery, 34070 Hazelwood Ave, Abbotsford, BC V2S 7R1.