Patsy Olfert

On Monday, October 31, 2016, Mary “Patsy” Olfert (Friesen), age 76, passed away at The Meadows Long Term Care Facility in Swift Current, SK. Patsy was born in the Wymark District, SK on January 1, 1940.  At infancy, Patsy lost her mother to cancer. In those days, it was very tough for a father to raise a young child on their own, so in 1941 Jacob & Anna Friesen opened their hearts and their home in Schantzenfeld to Patsy, where she lived for majority of her life. She attended Wymark school until grade eight, when it was decided her help was needed on the farm and at home. Patsy was well known for her sewing ability and made many Barbie doll outfits for her extended family — each outfit was more unique than the next one. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time with family and friends — anywhere she went, Patsy made friends. She was one of the kindest people you could meet and you would always leave with a smile on your face after visiting with her. After the passing of her parents, Jacob & Anna, Patsy moved into Swift Current and lived there for many years until her own health started to fail. She first moved into the Herbert Nursing Home, then to the Swift Current Care Centre, and in August of this year to The Meadows in Swift Current, SK. Patsy’s memory will be cherished by her sister-in law, Mary Friesen, of Swift Current, SK; her 18 nieces and nephews who reside from Ontario right through to British Columbia; her many great-nieces and nephews; and by her numerous great-great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Jacob Friesen, in 1988 and Anna Friesen, in 1990; and by her siblings, Jake Friesen, Betty (Elizabeth) Fehr, and Mary Dyck. The funeral service was held on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 3:00 pm from the Zion Mennonite Church, Swift Current, SK with Pastor Lois Bukar officiating. Patsy loved music and had always loved the song “Amazing Grace.” It was graciously sung by the congregation, led by Gaylia Wiens, and accompanied by Grace Funk on the piano. “How Great Thou Art” and “Softly and Tenderly” were also sung by the congregation. The tributes and obituary were read by her great-nieces, Lisa Neal and Shari Wiebe, and her nephew, Gordon Jangula. Many great memories of Patsy were shared with everyone. Her nephew, Ron Dyck, and great-nephew, Brady Berg, served as ushers at the church.  Patsy was laid to rest at the Schantzenfeld Cemetery with the following nephews serving as pallbearers — Roy Jangula, John Jangula, Gordon Jangula, John Neufeld, and great-nephews, Pete Fehr and Ed Wiebe. In memory of Patsy Olfert, donations made to the Cypress Health Region Long Term Care would be appreciated by the family.

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