Winkler resident and World War II veteran Harvey P. Friesen leaves behind a legacy of advocacy and bridging the gap between veterans and a historically pacifist community.

Friesen was a major advocate for the Memorial Cenotaph in Winkler, which was erected in 1999. He also lobbied the government and raised awareness for those veterans who had been exposed to mustard gas during the conflict. The Government eventually announced compensation for survivors of mustard gas experiments in 2004.

After the war, Friesen returned home to Winkler and was heavily involved in the local Legion for over 50 years, a major part of starting remembrance day services and community events.

Morden Legion President Bob Frost says Friesen was a proud member of the Canadian Forces, though like many veterans faced a stigma after returning home.

"It took a lot of years and great effort on his part to heal some of the hearts and rebuild some of the bridges that were broken because of their participation in the military," Frost says.

He notes the Legion was one of the few places Veterans could share their stories. "A lot of people wouldn't or couldn't understand, and those guys went through tough times."

Described as soft-spoken, Frost says Friesen was a major supporter for local veterans

Local resident and reservist Major Mark Wilson says he was inspired by Friesen's passion and dedication to helping organize local Remembrance day services and parades.

His favourite memory is from this summer's Winkler Harvest Festival, riding with Harvey during the annual parade in his unit's military truck.

"His humble attitude was inspiring," Wilson says. "He was a tireless advocate in our community. I always felt privileged to be able to work with Harvey."

Passing away October 20 at the age of 92, Friesen represented one of the few last living memories of the Second World War.

"It's sad," Frost says for both the loss of a friend and a piece of history. "He will be missed and he will be remembered."

The funeral was held October 26, where a Legion member played the Last Post at the cemetery. "A bit of Legion participation in Harvey's final sendoff."

Major Mark Wilson with Harvey Friesen at a recent Remembrance Day service in Winkler. Friesen was also heavily involved in the local Legion for over 50 years. He received the Minister Of Veterans Affairs Commendation for his advocacy for veterans. In 1994, he was also Citizen of the Year, which at that time was awarded by the Kinsmen Club of Winkler.