Tina Thiessen

As the third youngest of fourteen children, Tina Thiessen grew up in a tightly knit Mennonite community on a Saskatchewan prairie farm in the “Dirty Thirties.” The demands of farm life instilled in her a strong work ethic and innovative design skills that persisted throughout her life. Scraps of lumber or odd assortments of used clothing could be refurbished into objects or clothing that were not only useful, but also beautiful. In her hometown of Aberdeen she met Jake, the love of her life, at a local softball game. As a teenage bride and mother she became known for her excellent homemaking skills. Her hospitality, her voluminous and wide assortment of baked treats and lavish meals were legendary as well as her sacrificial generosity for those in need. Her ostensibly shy disposition was shattered when she broke into aggressive cheering and bragging about the invincibility of her beloved Saskatchewan Rough Riders.

Tina had a strong faith in her saviour, Jesus Christ, who comforted and sustained her during twenty-four years of widowhood and for her last decade of extraordinary physical suffering.

Tina leaves behind a family who, though temporarily sorrowing now, are comforted with the certain hope of the final resurrection into eternal life.

Tina is survived by daughters Debbie (John) Harris, Marlyss (Michael) Graham; grandchildren Danny, David (Kristin), Jamie (Josh); 6 great grandchildren and sisters Susie, Nettie and Ida. She was predeceased by parents John J and Anna Klassen, and many siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2023 at 11:30 am at Central Community Church, 46100 Chilliwack Central Rd, Chilliwack BC.