James (Jim) Roy Friesen, 80, of St. Albert, passed away peacefully on November 5th while holding his daughter Micaela’s hand.
Born in Winnipeg to Sarah and Cornelius Friesen, Jim was the youngest of 8 children and was always doted on by his sisters, brother, and brothers-in-law. He was very loved by all.
After he graduated, Jim went on to pursue a career as a Chartered Accountant and retired as a managing partner for a professional services firm, later receiving recognition of 50 years of service from CPA Alberta. In 1964, Jim met his wife, Edna, and went on to have 3 children, Mark, Micaela and Maretta. Jim always put family first, making sure that even in tax season, when he was out the door by 6 am and sometimes not home until after 10 pm, he made it to his son’s football or hockey games and his daughters’ dance classes and competitions. He was a very dedicated father and husband; a dream for all of those he touched with his presence.
Jim was a very kind, selfless, giving, gracious and supportive family man. His love and guidance was the foundation of his being and he dedicated his life to providing for his family.
Jim leaves behind his loving family, including wife of 53 years, Edna, son, Mark, daughter, Micaela and daughter, Maretta, grandson, Oliver and granddaughter, Ayden. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, as well as many dear friends.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Sarah and Cornelius Friesen, and his siblings Leonard (Betty, Rita) Friesen, Doreen (Les) Raymond, Bernice (Hugh) MacTavish, Donnie (Bob) McElrea, Millie (Lorne) Ranson, Iris (Gene) Kucher, and Janice (Don) Kerr.
A service will be held on Saturday November 26th at 2 pm at St. Albert Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories so that we can hopefully put an end to this horrible disease.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.”
