In Loving Memory of

Mary Vriend

It is with sadness that the family of Mary say their final goodbye, but we do so with gratitude and thanksgiving to God for the life abundant she had lived in Christ, and the assurance that she is now in the arms of her Saviour and Lord.

Mary was the sixth child born into a family which had immigrated to Saskatchewan from Holland at the beginning of the Great Depression. Because of economic hardships the family moved to Edmonton where they were embraced by the love of the First Christian Reformed Church community and began to thrive. It was in this community that she had met the love of her life, Dan Vriend. They were married and soon settled into Beverly where they raised five children, first four boys, and eight years later, a girl. Life for Mary was characterized by Faith, Family and Fun. She was devoted in her commitment to God which was reflected in her relationship to others. Her church community and neighbours were precious to her. She had been raised in a warm, loving, and fun-filled family, which followed through into her own family with Dan. Her love was expressed in her caring and nurturing nature, and devoting her life to creating a warm home environment for family into which friends were always welcome. Humour, teasing and practical jokes were a big part of being family; life was always celebrated with good food and laughter. Mom was active and engaged most of her 93 years, but the last few were difficult with the frailty of old-age diminishing her abilities. Mary will always be lovingly remembered by her husband of 70 years, Dan; their children: Richard (Jo-Ann), Ben (Leanne), Ken (Denise), Calvin (Audrey), and Anne (Robin) Koning; 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her dear sister, Alice; loving brothers and sisters in-laws; and a multitude of nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 19, 2024, at the First Christian Reformed Church (10956 - 96 Street, Edmonton).