John Froese

With his wife, one son and daughter-in law at his side, John Froese passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 12:40 a.m. at Altona Hospital. John passed away at the age of 84 years.

John was predeceased by his parents, his son (Dwight), three brothers, two sisters, one grandson-in-law, and four nephews.

Left to cherish his memory, are his beloved wife, Ruth Froese (nee Klassen) of Altona; their children, James (Lois) Froese of Elm Creek, Gerald Froese of Zhoda, Pearl (Ron) Hiebert of Niverville, daughter-in-law, Anny Froese of Altona, Jason (Cindy) Froese of Altona, twelve grandchildren and their families, including ten great-grandchildren, one sister, and many nieces and nephews.

John was born on September 11, 1939 in the RM of Morris. He grew up on a farm north of Horndean, where he learned a strong work ethic and developed many skills working on the farm. He attended Melba School. 

John was baptized upon the confession of his faith in 1956. He met Ruth at church, so youth and choir sessions became very important social events, while deepening his faith. They were married at the EMM Church in Altona on June 21, 1959. John loved the Lord and served in church in a variety of roles throughout his lifetime, including: Sunday School teacher and superintendent, and a Board member. 

John’s easy-going style and sense of humour was always evident. He was curious about how things worked and was quite the jack-of-all-trades, which came in handy when pursuing his interests, hobbies, and work on the farm. 

John worked at D. W. Friesen’s for a total of 34 years, as a pressman and folder operator in the printing department. During this time, he also took up dairy farming, which was followed by raising hogs when the milk quota was sold. After the hog operation came to a close, he earned his Class 1 license, driving truck for Miami Welding, and eventually drove for Reynold’s Transport. He also served as a school bus driver, and he really enjoyed taking high school sports teams to different games and tournaments, where he could watch sports to his heart’s content.

John and Ruth’s first home was a labour of love, with the newlyweds doing the bulk of the finish work. It was located at the corner of 6^th St and 7^th Ave NE in Altona. This was their home for the first seven years of their married life. Their next home was not shiny and new, and lovingly referred to as “The Shack”. The trade-off was a small farmyard, where they could raise some animals. Three and a half years later, in May of 1969, they upgraded to a two-story farmhouse and barn on a larger acreage, in the village of Altbergthal. After many home improvement projects, it became known as “The Hilton”within the family because it was a warm and welcoming place to stay for many a weary traveler. John and Ruth moved to Altona in October 2005, to a bungalow on Sunflower Crescent. This was their home until February 2023, when they made the move to the Buffalo Apartments.

John had little time for hobbies but enjoyed working in his shop on the farm, building and fixing a variety of things. In winter, he enjoyed watching hockey games while consuming popcorn, from the big bowl. He was always ready to lend a hand, especially if any one of the kids would ask for advice or help with a project. He loved listening to gospel music and later in life, participating in seniors’ retreats. In retirement, driving his motorhome was one of his favourite things to do, along with sitting next to a campfire with family or friends. In recent years, John, together with Ruth, took many opportunities to gather with a group of church friends for meals, social outings, and seasonal parties.

John ‘s health started to decline, especially after several falls. He was hospitalized as of Christmas Day 2023. He remained in Altona Hospital until his last breath.

Rest in peace, John. Enjoy the golden streets of Heaven, together with your son, many siblings, your parents, and so many friends that have gone before. You kept the faith, as you encouraged each of us so often with the gospel. Until we meet again, safe in the arms of Jesus.

Viewing will take place on Friday, March 8, 2024 at Wiebe’s Funeral Home Altona from 3:00-8:00 p.m.

John’s Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m., at the EMM Church in Altona, Manitoba with Pastor John Bergman officiating. A private family interment will take place prior to the service at the Altona Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Turtle Mountain Bible Camp in memory of John Froese.