Classen, Isaac T. (1899-1981)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1981 Jul 2 p. 11

Birth date: 1899 Jul 15

ISAAC T. CLASSEN

Isaac T. Classen was born July 15, 1899 near Jansen, Neb. to Rev. Jacob and Maria Classen. he died Apr. 28, 1981 in Denver, Colo. at the age of 81.

He was orphaned at the age of nine when his mother died. In his youth he became a Christian and was baptized on June 9, 1918. He was a faithful member of the Evangelical Mennonite Brethren Church until his death.

He married Margaret R. Friesen on Aug. 1, 1918, and they moved to a farm southeast of Meade, Kan., where they resided for 40 years. He not only farmed, but enjoyed working with his hands on carpentry projects.

He was a man of high integrity and strong principles, believing that his life and how he lived it was his greatest testimony. His wit and humor were enjoyed, as well as his quiet, reserved ways. He has left a challenge to carry on his attributes of love and kindness, which he displayed by his tenderhearted and giving nature.

They were blessed with six children. An eight-year-old daughter predeceased him in 1927. Besides his widow, he leaves two daughters, Minnie (Mrs. Lloyd) Byrd of Oklahoma City, Okla. and Bertha (Mrs. Frank) Johnson of Birmingham, Ala.; and three sons, Isaac, Jr., Wilmer and Ernie, all of Denver, Colo.; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.