Joyce Anne Friesen

Joyce Anne Friesen, née Sparrow, passed away on March 11, 2026 at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon at the age of 84. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Lorelie (Wendell) Barsi and their children Walker and Arieanna, and Cameron (Carla) Friesen and their children Conner and Chloe. She is also survived by her sister Sharon Sparrow, sister-in-law Irene (George) Sparrow, sister-in-law Mary (Arthur) Buhler, special cousin Ronald (Riza) Chamberlin, and many nieces and nephews. Joyce was predeceased by her husband Henry Friesen, her parents Reginald and Ruby Sparrow, and her brother George Sparrow.

First and foremost a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, Joyce lived with unwavering faith that shaped her life and the strong values she passed on to her family. A lifelong learner, she earned a diploma of Theology from Bethel Bible Institute in 1963 and later returned to her studies, graduating in 1997 with a Bachelor of Theology.

Her greatest pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. She encouraged excellence in all their endeavours and was a constant, supportive presence at church, school, and music events. An avid sportswoman, she loved cheering from the stands but was most at home on the ice playing Masters Ringette at age 65, catching behind the plate in baseball, or spending time hunting, bird watching, travelling, and camping. Joyce and Henry volunteered countless summer hours at Living Waters Camp, helping with repairs, renovations, and wherever they were needed. She cherished the quiet moments there—waking to birdsong, watching raccoons on the picnic table, falling asleep to the calls of coyotes—and deeply appreciated the beauty of God’s creation.