Estate Gift Fuels Discovery Through Scholarship in Chemistry

William (Bill) John Friesen was the youngest of four children when he and his family moved to Brandon following World War II. Bill completed his Bachelor of Science at Brandon College in 1958 which led to an exciting career with the Hudson Bay Mining Company in Flin Flon, Manitoba. Bill embraced northern life and became an avid outdoorsman. He particularly enjoyed camping, photography, and skiing, and was an avid traveller.

He and his dear friend, Bernie Lynn, shared many trips together, travelling the globe and sailing his beloved boat, a GP14, built by Bill himself. Outside of work, Bill dedicated much of his time and energy to his community. He was actively involved with local clubs and programs including the Flin Flon Ski Club, where he was an honoured Lifetime Member, and the Precambrian Sailing Club. He kept in touch with fellow classmates from the Class of ’58 as a proud BU alumnus and was a loyal friend to those who knew him best.

Since Bill’s passing in March of 2022, gifts from his estate have provided more than $557,500 to some of his most treasured organizations. A few grateful recipients include Flin Flon Hapnot Collegiate, the local Salvation Army, Doctors without Borders, and his alma mater, Brandon University.

The William John Friesen Memorial Scholarship in Science has been established with a remarkable contribution of $240,000. The scholarship will be awarded to chemistry students based on their research potential, academic excellence, and leadership capacity.