Loren J. Friesen, age 83, died on Sept. 7, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri. His parents were John and Elsie (Harder) Friesen. He grew up on a farm near Butterfield, MN and attended the Butterfield schools, graduating in 1961. He graduated from Bethel College in N. Newton, Ks., with a degree in Economics in 1965. He earned a law degree from the University of Minnesota in 1971.
After college he spent 3 years in Kenya in a Teachers Abroad Program (TAP) under the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). There he taught in a rural boarding school. Throughout his life he maintained a strong interest in Africa and the work of MCC.
His first job following Law School was with the Federal Home Loan Bank Board in Washington D.C. He spoke fondly of his time in D.C., enjoying the friendships he made there and the many activities the city had to offer. One highlight was to help launch, together with friends, a 100 kilometer one-day hike from Washington to Harper’s Ferry sponsored by the Sierra Club. The hike continues today, half a century later.
Loren then moved to Mt. Lake, MN to establish a private law practice and served for a time as the City Attorney. He spent a number of years in Worthington, MN where he managed an office for Minnesota Legal Services. Then he moved to Branson, MO where he had a private law practice for 17 years. For the last eight years he lived in Springfield, MO and continued his practice part-time.
He was a respected lawyer. His practice focused on business, real estate and family law. One local attorney, after observing his extensive pro bono work, was quoted as saying that Loren should be in another business. ‘How can we make any money if Loren works for free.’
Throughout his life his interests focused on reading, travel, foreign affairs and politics. He also had a keen interest in issues relating to farming and agriculture. In retirement Loren developed a strong interest in following Bethel College Sports.
He was loved by all and will be missed, especially by his sister Marlene (Soderquist), brother Tom, sister-in-law Ruth and many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to Bethel College, N. Newton, KS or Mennonite Central Committee, Akron, PA.
Loren J. Friesen
