Classen, Willie F. (1919-2005)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 2005 Apr 11 p. 16

Birth date: 1919 Aug 18

text of obituary:

WILLIE F. CLASSEN

Willie F. Classen, 85, died Jan. 31, 2005, at his home in Walnut Hill, Fla., after a lengthy illness. He was born Aug. 18, 1919, to Jacob R. and Anna Classen in Meade, Kan.

He accepted Christ as his Savior and was baptized June 20, 1937, and became a member of the Mennonite church.

He married Elizabeth Loewen, also of Meade, on Feb. 15, 1942. In 1953 they moved to Florida, where he continued farming.

His first love was serving the Lord. This was evident by his involvement in the church and community through the years. He and Elizabeth assisted in church work in Florida, Alabama and Mississippi in numerous ways, and he was currently a member of Mennonite Christian Fellowship in Atmore, Ala. Besides his church involvement, he also served on several agricultural organizations.

He enjoyed numerous hobbies, interests and challenges. He had a unique sense of humor and loved people. He had a deep concern for the salvation of his family.

Survivors include his wife of almost 63 years, Elizabeth; five children, Marianne Classen, Roy and his wife, Miriam, and Steve and his wife, Treva, all of Walnut Hill, Ken and his wife, Mabel, of Atmore, Ala., and Beverly Classen of Sarasota; a brother, George Classen of Sturgis, Mich.; 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by an infant son, four brothers and three sisters. Funeral services were held at Atmore Memorial Chapel. Burial was in Freemanville Community Cemetery.