MARTHA SOPHIA FREISTING

Apr. 27, 1913 -Sept. 19, 2005
It is with a very heavy heart that I announce my Mothers‚ passing. She was a strong woman who has passed all of life’s trials with flying colours and
will now collect her wings. She did her lifelong job of being a wife, mother, and friend with pride, conviction, honesty and love.
Sophie, as she was known to everyone, enjoyed a good laugh, and given an occasion, would put together a costume and have the time of her life. Being the neighbourhood Santa brought her so much pleasure. Dad used to put on plays and she loved being a part of them. She had a wonderful talent for cooking and baking. We enjoyed coming home to the wonderful smells emanating from the kitchen. We would laugh at our little dog who, without prompting, would go through all the tricks he knew, just to have one of the cabbage rolls. Our house was filled with music and friends, and neighbourhood parents knew they could locate their children at our house. Her character grew with each and every person who entered her life. So many good memories.
Her greatest achievement was completing an almost 50 year search for her younger brother. She never got to meet him, as he and his wife were killed in an auto accident five years earlier while on their way to their grandsons‚ wedding in 1992. However, her efforts were not in vain, as we were connected with their children and have shared many stories.
Mom was born in Southey, SK and in the late 1930s moved to Ontario. She resided in Rainy River for most of her life until she was admitted to the Riverside Healthcare Hospital, acute care wing, in Rainy River. The staff was very good to her and were so supportive for which I thank them so much.
She relocated to Hogarth Riverview Manor in February 2004 where she received such great care and I thank the staff for everything they have done for her and for letting her die with dignity. So often I would hear from them that they enjoyed being around her as she always had a ready smile and never complained. This great lady is going to be missed very much. Sophie is survived by daughter, MaryAnn (Doug) Bryenton, and son, Fred (Sandy) Engels of BC; grandchildren, Lynn (Doug) Johnson, Jennifer Bryenton, Stacey (Darren) Hooson, Gloria (Ron) Walker, Brenda, Trudy, and Curtis Engels; great grandchildren Paige, Taylor, and Sean. Also surviving are numerous nephews and nieces. Predeceased by parents and siblings, husbands Joe Engels, Bill Ireton, and Don Freisting and son Raymond Engels.
Cremation has taken place and a private burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, a donation directed to Hogarth Riverview Manor, 300
Lillie St. Thunder Bay, ON, P7C 4Y7 would be appreciated.
Mom, we will be together again. All my love, MaryAnn
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