Jacob F. Thiessen

May 23, 1921 – February 18, 2005

Jacob F. Thiessen was born to his parents, Friedrich and Helena Thiessen on May 23, 1921 in the Waldheim area. He was baptized in 1940 by Bishop Peter Toews in the Sommerfeld Church at Waldheim, Manitoba.

He was united in holy matrimony to Katherina Thiessen on November 3, 1940 at the Chortitz School. In their marriage they have shared many joys and sorrows for 64 years 3 months and 15 days.

In their early years of marriage they moved around quite a bit working wherever he could to provide for the family. Dad drove a cream truck for a few years and in 1954 he started a small general store in the village of Chortitz. In 1956 dad was admitted to the Sanatorium in Winnipeg as he was diagnosed with Tuberculosis. Dad spent 16 months there until he was finally able to go home and continue working in the store. Dad closed the store in 1981, and during the 27 years that he was in business he met many people and made many friends. In 1984 mom and dad moved to Winkler where they spent their retirement together. On January 13, 2005 dad was admitted to intensive care at the Boundary Trails Health Centre for heart failure.

On February 18, 2005 at the age of 83 years, 8 months and 26 days, dad was relieved of his pain and suffering and went to be with his heavenly father after being in the hospital for 1 month and 5 days.

With his passing he leaves to mourn his loving wife Katherina Thiessen of Winkler; 9 children, 6 sons; 3 daughters; Tina and Bill Martins of Thornhill; Jake and Sandy Thiessen of Winnipeg; Pete and Leona Thiessen of Vanderhoof, BC; Helen Janzen of Winkler; Ann and Dave Stirbisky of Selkirk; Harry and Helen Thiessen of Winkler; Abe and Belle Thiessen of Prince George, BC; John and Debbie Thiessen of Winnipeg; and Fred and Erma Thiessen of Winkler. He also leaves 28 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; 1 brother Fred and Bert Thiessen; 1 sister-in-law.

He was predeceased by his parents; 1 brother and 3 sisters.

Funeral service was held on Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at 2:00pm at the Winkler Sommerfeld Mennonite Church. Interment followed at the Chortitz Community Cemetery.

We wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the many friends that expressed their affection and support during the past number of weeks. Dad’s spirit was always lifted when an old friend would come to reminisce about the good old days. Thanks to Rev. Abe Wiebe, Rev. Abe Heppner, serving group, ushers and song leaders as well as all who served as pallbearers. We would also like to thank Dr. Van Niekierk, Dr. Bester, the nurses and the rest of the hospital staff for the loving care that they provided to dad during the past number of weeks.

If friends so desire donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the Boundary Trails Health Centre Palliative Care, Box 2000 Winkler, MB R6W 1H8.

Wiebe Funeral Home, Winkler in care of arrangements.