About Mary

Mary Friesen was born in the Ukraine on July 25, 1918.  The family emigrated to Canada in 1933, and settled in Yarrow, BC.  Mary's mother Anna was an excellent cook and many of Mary's recipes have been handed down for generations.  Mary also learned to cook and bake the foods of other cultures when she worked for wealthy families in Vancouver, BC.  Her skills were perfected over many years of cooking for her family of 7 children and their extended families.

Mary in action, serving turkey dinner to her large family.

She never allowed any of us to contribute to any family dinners even when she was in her 80's.  Mary's husband John knew he could bring people home for dinner without prearranging it with Mary, and she always had something good to serve.  Her freezer was full, and she grew her own vegetables and fruits.
Today she lives in an extended care facility and never complains about the food even though it is nothing like the delicious fresh foods she always served.

Mary baking with her grandchildren.