Abe and Eileen Friesen

Obituary

Abram (Abe) Friesen, age 80, and Katherine Eileen (Eileen) Friesen, age 79, of Steinbach, Manitoba, passed away peacefully by each other’s side, only hours apart, on February 26, 2026, at Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach. They were together in the same room at the time of their passing – a final gift and blessing after nearly 60 years of marriage.

They are lovingly remembered by their son, Chris Friesen.

Abe is survived by his sister Marion Penner; his brother John Friesen; his sister-in-law Patricia Friesen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Eileen is survived by her sister-in-law Ann Friesen, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Abe was born on September 4, 1945, in Winkler, Manitoba.

Eileen was born on November 6, 1946, in Winkler, Manitoba.

They were united in marriage on December 27, 1966, and built a life together in Steinbach, where they remained in the same home until their final days. In 1982, they welcomed their son, Chris, who was the pride and joy of their lives.

Abe was a devoted school teacher, spending most of his career at Southwood School. He took great pride in his work and had an incredible memory for his students, often recalling their names and stories decades after retirement. He found genuine joy in meeting former students in the community and hearing about their lives.

Beyond teaching, Abe was a talented wedding photographer. Many will remember visiting the Friesen home, where he built a photography studio and captured countless special moments for families in the area. He also served for many years as a church organist at the Lutheran Church in Steinbach, sharing his love of music with his congregation.

Abe was an accomplished golfer, known for driving the ball with remarkable accuracy over 300 yards, and was a dedicated curler, serving as skip for many teams. Over the years, he and his friends and family celebrated numerous tournament and bonspiel victories, proudly displayed through the many trophies and awards in their home.

Eileen worked as an accountant at the local Ford dealership and at Tina’s Flowers, later becoming self-employed as an income tax accountant. She cherished visiting care homes to meet with her clients and friends, forming lasting connections throughout the community.

She loved spending afternoons at tea houses with her dear friends Diana and Sylvia, reading, and cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays. At home, Eileen was an incredible cook, known for her hearty meals and what seemed like endless Christmas baking. She also took great pride and joy in tending to her flower gardens.

Abe and Eileen’s lives were defined by dedication – to their work, their faith, their hobbies, their community, and most importantly, to each other. Their nearly six decades together were marked by loyalty, partnership, and a deep, steady love that carried them through every season of life.

The joint funeral service for Abram and Katherine Eileen (Eileen) Friesen will be held on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with burial and reception to follow.

Chris would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the many friends and family members who stood by his parents in their final years, months, and days – offering rides, visits, and companionship at home and in the hospital. Special gratitude is extended to the doctors and nurses who cared for them with compassion and dignity, and who made it possible for them to be together in the same room during their final hours.

Together in life,
together in death,
forever together in God’s eternal grace.