Freida Catherine (née Rauw) Ryan
May 21, 2021
Peacefully, on Friday, May 21st, 2021, Freida Catherine Ryan, passed away in London, in her 103rd year.
Freida, the third youngest in a family of eight, was born to Mathias and Anna (née Lueke) Rauw. She was the beloved wife of the late Jim Ryan (2002) and cherished mother of the late Joe Ryan (2014). She is predeceased by her brothers and sisters; Martin, Clara, Barbara, Agnes, Mona, Frank and Mary (in infancy). Freida will be forever treasured and missed by her daughter, Rose (Tom) and sons, Mark (Gina) and Matt (Karen). Much-loved Grandma to Sean, Rachel, Natalie, Anna-Marie and Janelle; step-grandmother to Kyle (Katie) and Joel (Cara); as well as great-grandchildren, Riley, Corbin, Cheyenne, Garrett and Frances. Dear lifelong friend to Marg McNulty. She will remain in the hearts of the many nieces and nephews throughout the western provinces.
Freida was born on a farm in Humboldt, Saskatchewan and held in equal measure loyalty and freedom. A mother to all, she spent years in service to her community and her church, feeding the poor, aiding the sick and squeezing in a card game and a sherry, while making award-winning pies and marmalade that would make a hippo squint. She was a lifelong Roughriders fan, and bet freely and paid her markers. A cold jar of peaches and a bonfire was what she offered and who could ask for more. She loved and was loved and the sun has set on that fact. She is missed already.
A special thank you to all of the staff at Meadow Park Long Term Care. Words cannot express our gratitude for the care and devotion you showed to Freida. We gave you Mom, our most cherished possession, and you kept her safe and well throughout this most difficult year. To the residents who knew her and made her feel welcome – thank you.
Our appreciation for the prayers and guidance of Father Remark, Father Ball and the entire Holy Family Parish. To the staff at Westview Funeral Chapel, thank you for your genuine care and assistance.
Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass will be held at a later date. In lieu of donations, an act of kindness would make her happy.
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Rose, so sad to learn of your Mom's passing...but what a journey she had! My thoughts are with you and Tom...
Dear Rose, What an amazing life your mom had , so many memories to cherish. She was the first one to introduce me to Welches grape juice and homemade strawberry jam during the many sleepovers in our childhood. She is the reason I make homemade jam to this day. She was kind and welcoming , and gave freely of her many perennials in her always beautiful gardens which continued to amaze me year after year. She has touched many lives with her devotion to helping others but most of all as a loving Mom and Grandmother. She will always be in your heart, Love Vicki
Dear Rose. Mark & Mathew, We were very sorry to hear about your Mum's passing. Her picture brought back a lot of memories. At 102 years she was remarkable. We have such fond memories of her and your Dad and very much cherish our long family friendship. What we remember most is her kindness as she repeatedly watched over our pre schooler while I went to visit our older son who was in hospital. Remarkably her response when we thanked her was always - be of help to someone else in need. That was your Mum! We also remember her as an expert gardener; her raspberries were legendary. Rest in Peace dear Frieda - Our prayers are with you and Jim. God Bless, Brigitta & Xavier
Memories
Dear Rose, My most sincere condolences on Freida's passing. Your mom was as sharp as ever the last time I saw her (pre-Covid!) I always felt inspired by her great sense of humour and gentle manner. God Bless you and all your loved ones at this sad time. Please know that Freida will be remembered in the prayers of The Holy Family Divine Mercy Prayer Group. God Bless you all!
~ Theresa Fenik