In Loving Memory of Orlie Dean Friesen

Our dear husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Orlie Dean Friesen, was born to Orville and Ruth Fricke Friesen on September 21, 1951, in McPherson, Kansas.

On October 18, 1970, Orlie married his beloved wife, Gloria, beginning nearly 56 years together filled with family, hard work, faith, laughter, and precious memories.

In 1977, Orlie and Gloria moved their family to Barron, where they began dairy farming and a new chapter of life together, raising their family and making a home in Wisconsin.

Orlie spent much of his life farming. The farm was a place where the family worked side by side and made many lasting memories together. In later years, Orlie continued his strong work ethic through carpentry, working alongside his son, Kenton.

Orlie was a strong and steady presence through both happiness and hardship. His family always knew Dad was there, and his faith, strength, devotion, and work ethic became part of the foundation upon which his family grew.

Orlie passed away peacefully at home on September 27, 2026.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Gloria; children, Weslie of Sheridan, Michigan; Kristi of Barron, Gregory and Angela of Austin, Kentucky; and Kenton and Deanne of Barron; 21 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jeanette of Cumberland, Clara of Barron, Lorraine and Kyle Crow of Magnolia, Texas; Wendy and Bob Penner of El Campo, Texas; and Angie and John Jantz of Pryor, Oklahoma.

He was preceded in death by his precious daughter, Tammi Jo.

The farmer has laid down his earthly work, but the seeds of faith and love Orlie planted will continue to grow for generations. With the same trust in God upon which he built his life, we lovingly place him into the hands of his Heavenly Father, holding close the blessed hope that this goodbye is not forever.

A funeral service for Orlie will be held on Friday, October 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the Barron Mennonite Church in Barron. Visitation will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 1 at the Barron Mennonite Church and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday morning.

Rest peacefully in the arms of God, Orlie. Until we meet again.

Last Update: Sep 30, 2026 6:40 am CDT