It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Edwin Friesen on May 30, 2026, at the age of 90 years.

Edwin was born on October 10, 1935, on the family farm at Beaver Flat, Saskatchewan, to Abram and Mary Friesen. He was the sixth child in a family of eight children, growing up with five older sisters and two younger sisters. He spent his childhood and early years on the family farm, developing the strong work ethic, faith, and values that would guide him throughout his life.

In 1962, Edwin moved to Alberta, where he worked on ranches and soon met the love of his life, Darleen. They were married on June 28, 1963, beginning a loving partnership that would span nearly 63 years.

Together, Edwin and Darleen built a life centered on family, faith, and hard work. They welcomed two children, daughter Juanita (Harvey) and son Greg (Marcella). Edwin was a proud grandfather to Mason (Aisha), Mya (Matthew), Echo, Ashley (Cody), and Shawn (Shianne). He treasured every moment spent with his great-grandchildren: Cora, Jackson, Ryder, Everleigh, and Paisley, who brought him endless joy and laughter. He is survived by his sister Betty (John) Dyck, brother in law Gene (Ruth) Oss and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Abram & Mary Friesen, parent-in-laws Martin & Martha Oss, daughter Holly, brother in law Larry and sisters Martha, Dora, Elsie, Evlin, Rose and Diana.

Edwin devoted much of his life to ranching. In 1965, he and Darleen purchased Darleen's parents' farm, where they worked side by side until selling the farm in 1988. Ranch life was more than a career—it was a way of life that Edwin embraced wholeheartedly. In 1995, Edwin and Darleen moved to Granum where he would work for the Round Up 80 Ranch until the age of 70. After retiring from ranching at the age of 70, Edwin and Darleen settled on an acreage east of Claresholm, enjoying a quieter pace while remaining connected to family, friends, and community.

A man of deep faith, Edwin was actively involved in church throughout his life. He loved music and was rarely happier than when singing and playing his guitar. His warm spirit, gentle nature, and steadfast faith touched the lives of many.

In April 2020, Edwin and Darleen moved to Pierceland to be closer to their children where Edwin spent countless hours building and fixing in his ‘shed’. In November 2023, they relocated to Cold Lake to Pioneer Village, and on May 10, 2025, they moved into Cold Lake Lodge, where they enjoyed the companionship of friends and the freedom from daily household responsibilities.

Edwin will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his strong work ethic, his love of music, and his faithful service to God. His quiet strength, kindness, and humble character along with his spunky sense of humor and teasing, leave a legacy that will continue through the generations who were blessed to know and love him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Grand Centre Alliance Church in Cold Lake, Alberta. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. Cremation has taken place, and no graveside service will be held.

Though he will be deeply missed, Edwin's love, faith, and example will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Respectfully submitted by the family.

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