March 9, 2021
Cornelius Giesbrecht, age 99 of Abbotsford passed away peacefully on March 9th, 2021 a few weeks short of his 100th birthday.
He is survived by sons Ron Giesbrecht, Dennis (Vicki) Giesbrecht, daughter Debbie (Jim) Supeene, grandchildren Brad (Katrina) Giesbrecht, Sandy Friesen, Amanda (Kato) Atebe, Shannon (Matt) Hayden, Kevin (Amanda) Supeene, Jordan (Lindsay) Supeene and 11 great grandchildren and predeceased by wife Naomi, infant granddaughter Jessica Supeene, 12 brothers and sisters.
Corny fled Russia with his family when he was three years old. After a long journey to Canada, thru the USA and Mexico, to finally settle in Yarrow, BC.
He founded Ronald Allan Clothiers in 1953, which was his passion for over 50 years. In addition to many years in retail, he was an avid gardener and enjoyed taking care of all the birds in his aviary.
The pond on his property was always full of Canadian Geese, Snow Geese, as well as a pair of Black Swans. His aviary included many exotic birds and the backyard had roaming peacocks. For many years he also farmed 20 acres growing strawberries and raspberries, including raising cattle.
He will be remembered as a generous man, who gave to numerous charities and sponsored a number of refugees over the years, as well as opening their home to exchange students. He enjoyed travel to many countries and especially enjoyed his vacation time in Mazatlan, Mexico with wife Naomi, sister Susie and Jake Derksen.
His last years were spent at Menno Hospital. The family would like to say a special thank you to everyone at Menno Hospital for taking care of Dad, especially this last Covid year.
Due to Covid restrictions a private graveside service will be held with immediate family.
Online condolences to the family may be made at www.woodlawnfh-abbotsford.com
Woodlawn Funeral Home
604-853-2643
Woodlawn Funeral Home