With sad hearts we announce the passing of Frieda (Alfreda Zelent) Minchau on July 1, 2025 at the age of 98 years, in Wetaskiwin, Alberta.
Frieda was born in Karolinka, Poland, on September 12, 1926, to her parents Emil and Alma Zelent. With her mother and younger sister at her side, she immigrated to Canada in February 1932 to join her father who ventured ahead two years earlier. She married Edward Minchau on June 17, 1947. They spent most of their farming years in the Wetaskiwin community, while raising a family of four children, and being blessed with six grandchildren and six great-grandsons.
Frieda was a woman who dedicated a majority of her life to raising her children and helping with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren in addition to volunteering within her church and community. Gardening, homecooked meals, sewing clothes for herself and the children, camping and exploring new places through her travels abroad and within Canada were some of the things she enjoyed.
She is lovingly remembered and survived by her family: son, Donald (Monica) Minchau; daughter, Wendy Martin and granddaughter, Holly; daughter, Connie (Brian) Maygard and grandchildren Melissa Berg (great-grandsons Hayden, Blake and Kade) and Tanner (Jordan; great-grandsons Jaxon, Reid, Logan); as well as daughter Lori Minchau and granddaughter Casandra (Ayron) Katsaounis; numerous nieces and nephews and their families, and special family friend Faith (Joseph) Baranda and their son Rain.
Frieda was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Edward Minchau, in 2011; parents, Emil and Alma Zelent; sister, Katie (Albert) Minchau; brother, Helmut (Darlene) Zelent and grandchildren, Pamela and Steven Minchau.
In memory of Frieda, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church (4218 56 Ave, Wetaskiwin, Alberta T9A 2W3) or Mulhurst Lutheran Camp (PO Box 78, Mulhurst, Alberta, T0C 2C0) or to the charity of your choice.
Service details will be finalized in the coming days, please check back for details.
