Claassen, Henry (1880-1960)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1960 Jun 16 p. 6

Birth date: 1880 Apr 15

text of obituary:

. . .

— Mr. and Mrs. P. D. Claassen have returned from Beatrice, Nebr., where they attended the funeral of their 80-year-old brother-in-law, Henry Claassen Sr., at the Beatrice Mennonite Church Sunday afternoon. Rev. Ralph Weber, the pastor, was in charge of the services. Mr. Claassen was instantly killed near Hanover, Kan., Wednesday, June 8, when a truck crashed into the side of the car driven by Henry W. Jr., who resides in Wichita with his family. Also in the car was Mrs. Claassen, Henry's mother, who was badly bruised and shaken, and his small son Tommy, who suffered severe cuts and lacerations, but otherwise was not dangerously hurt. All received emergency treatment at the Hanover Hospital. The elder Mr. and Mrs. Claassen had intended to spend some time in Wichita with their children.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1960 Aug 4 p. 8

text of obituary:

HENRY CLAASSEN

Henry Claassen, oldest son of Jacob and Anna Claassen, nee Hein, was born April 15, 1880 near Samara, Russia. When he was only eight years of age his mother passed away, leaving his father and four children to mourn her early passing.

He attended parochial school where he received his early education in Bible as well as in the German and Russian languages. It was here that father's interest in Christ and His Kingdom was kindled and initial associations with the church were made.

In 1904 father came to Beatrice, Neb. where his uncles, Gerhard and Herman Wiebe, lived. He joined the Mennonite church at Beatrice. In 1910 he was grated citizenship in this new country, which he came to love and cherish.

In 1918, after working for various employers, he began a farming enterprise of his own. This continued to be his vocation until 1946, when he and his wife moved to Beatrice.

In 1919 father was married to Margaret Penner, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. J. K. Penner. This union was blessed with three sons. Our parents enjoyed 41 years of life together.

Father richly appreciated the fellowship of church and community. He also took a personal interest in all his acquaintances. This sustained him, and in spite of failing health his concern for community and world affairs continued. He was deeply devoted to and cherished the Christian virtues of his wife, and experienced a strengthening of faith, especially in the sunset years of life.

On June 8, 1960 he unexpectedly departed this life at the age of 80 years, one month and four days, to be with our Lord and Saviour.

He leaves to mourn his departure his wife, Margaret; thee sons, Henry W., Ernest G. and Arthur; three daughters-in-law; eight grandchildren; one brother, Jacob; and many relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, June 12, with his pastor Rev. Ralph Weber officiating. He was laid to rest in the Mennonite cemetery, awaiting the great Resurrection Morn. — The Family.

The Mennonite obituary: 1960 Oct 25 p. 694