Bradley “Brad” Lynn Friesen was born in Chickasha, OK. on October 13, 1964 to Marvin and Nadine (Nightingale) Friesen. In the spring of 1968, he with his parents and older brother moved to a dairy farm near Barron, Wisconsin where his two sisters were born. His first five years of schooling were at the Barron Public School. He then completed his formal education at the Gospel Mennonite School in Almena, Wisconsin. Dad answered the Lord's call at age 11 and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite on February 29, 1976 by Minister Don Bates. This faith was precious to him until the end.

He was married on April 7, 1985 to Laura Ann Miller in Almena, WI. Together they shared life's joys and sorrows for 39 years. Their home was blessed with two sons and two daughters. Dad enjoyed dairy farming and working together with his children.

Dad and Mom answered the call to service and were placed in Chihuahua, Mexico in 1994. Since then, Mexico and the many friends they made there held a special place in Dad's heart. He became fluent in Spanish and used this language whenever he had the opportunity.

Dad never allowed the difficulties he faced in life to get him down. At the age of 38, his eyesight was affected by a brain tumor. Although he went thru extensive therapy once the tumor was removed, Dad still continued to suffer from tunnel vision. Then at the age of 42, he developed kidney failure. He was very thankful for the kidney donated to him by his brother. These and other difficulties caused Dad to consider each day a gift from God.

Dad was always there for us. Quietly listening to our questions or problems, he then would have a clear and simple answer that would bring rest to our hearts. Time spent in family devotions formed a precious tie in our home. God and the Church were very dear to Dad and he always seemed to be looking for an opportunity to speak to others about the Lord. Singing his heart out with the school children on Monday morning school devotions was something he always looked forward to. Dad had a very giving heart and cared deeply for everyone he knew.

Dad's grandchildren were very special to him, and they all dearly loved to be with "Papa". In the last month, Dad seemed to know his time with us was short. Although it was very difficult for him to leave his family, he was submitted to God's plan for his life. Dad peacefully passed away on September 23, 2024 at Mayo Health Systems of Eau Claire WI. while his loving family surrounded his bedside. Death was caused by complications of a brain tumor, and he left us with a clear assurance of his salvation. He was 59 years of age.

He is survived by his loving wife, Laura; children: Teresa & Lance Koehn, Homeworth OH; Toby & Elaine Friesen, Tyson Friesen, all of Barron WI; Trudi & Craig Wiens, Almena, WI; grandchildren, Brandon, Jackie, Bryndi, Kayli, and Tayler Koehn, Nellie, Bessie, and Elizabeth Friesen; parents, Marvin and Nadine Friesen; siblings, Darrell & Lauretta Friesen, Brenda & Duane Penner, and Marla Friesen; mother-in-law, Mary Miller; brother and sisters-in-law, Cindy & Ron Buller, Rosanna & Merle Friesen, Wes & Loretta Miller, Christina & Arlen Wiggers, and Becky & Stanford Bender, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Danny Miller.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024 at Hillcrest Mennonite Church. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Hillcrest Mennonite Church on Monday September 30th, 2024 from 3 PM - 5 PM and 6 PM - 8 PM, and one hour before the service.

Skinner Funeral Home of Cumberland is serving the family.

Last Update: Sep 30, 2024 10:03 am CDT