Klassen, John H. (1914-1972)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1972 Jun 02 p. 29

Birth date: 1914 Feb 02

text of obituary:

JOHN H. KLASSEN

John Herman Klassen was born to Mr. and Mrs. Herman H. Klassen on February 2, 1914 in Gnadenheim, Siberia.

At the age of 13 he immigrated to Canada and lived with his family in the Winkler area. Approximately two years later he moved to Quill Lake, Saskatchewan. Because he was the eldest son, he was required to shoulder much of the family responsibility when a tragic train accident crippled his father. It was during this trying time that he realized his need for salvation and accepted Christ as his Savior. He was baptized and accepted into the Quill Lake Pentecostal church.

On June 11, 1940 he married Tina Janzen in Winkler, Manitoba. They moved to a homestead in Claire, Saskatchewan where they farmed and were blessed with two children. In 1943 they moved to Mt. Lehman, B.C. where three more children were born to them. He lived here until a year prior to his death. He was instrumental in founding and building the East Aldergrove MB Church and was actively involved in many areas of the church. He especially enjoyed music and sang in the choir for many years.

On April 14, 1972 he passed away at his residence at Bradner after one year of illness. His family have fond memories of him as he was prior to his illness. They were a close family and enjoyed singing, working and playing together. He and his wife, Tina, enjoyed 32 years of happy married life. In spite of a very trying past year they are confident that he kept his faith in the Lord that he is at peace and rest with God.

He leaves to mourn, his wife, Tina; and five children, Esther and her husband John Froese of Langley, Edwin and his wife Anita of Delta, Doreen and her husband Arthur Froese of Edmonton, Dan and his wife Judi of Courtenay, and Dave who is still at home; four grandchildren, two brothers and four sisters and many relatives and friends.