Klassen, Bernhard Thomas (1913-2002)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2002 Sep 13 p. 33

Birth date: 1913 May 10

text of obituary:

BERHARD (BEN) THOMAS KLASSEN

Bernard (Ben) Thomas Klassen of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away May 28. He was born May 10, 1913 to David and Anna Klassen at Borden, Sask. His father died when Ben was 2. A few years later, his mother married Henry Goertz, a loving stepfather who emphasized Christ's love. Ben completed high school in Borden. He gave his life to Christ at 19; he was baptized and joined Borden MB Church in 1934. In 1938 he married Agnes Harder of Borden. They moved to British Columbia. After 2 years in Chilliwack, they moved to New Westminster, where he drove truck. He took accounting. In 1945 they moved to Surrey, B.C. They were charter members of Kennedy Heights MB Church; he was secretary and treasurer for most of his time there. In 1965 they moved to Abbotsford; they attended Central Heights MB Church. He worked in the accounting department of a building supply company, retiring at 65. He continued to work part-time. He loved to golf, bowl and do crossword puzzles. He studied God's Word daily. He was a true gentleman and a quiet man who made many friends. In December 2001 cancer was found. Predeceased by a brother, he is mourned by Agnes; daughters Valerie Rahn and Conn!e Rahn; 4 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 1 brother and 2 sisters. The funeral was June 1 in Central Heights MB Church, with Chris Douglas ministering.