Klaassen, Martin (1897-1965)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1965 Oct 14 p. 8

Birth date: 1897 Apr 18

text of obituary:

MARTIN KLAASSEN

Martin Klaassen, son of Jacob and Katharina Klaassen, nee Toews, was born on April18, 1897, at Bessie, Okla. where he spent his childhood and youth. He attended the district school and a German private school where his uncle, Michael Klaassen was teacher, and one year at the Gotebo preparatory school. When he was 11 years old his mother passed away. For him this meant that at an early age he became acquainted with the sorrows and struggles of life.

After receiving catechism instruction he was baptized upon the confession of faith and became a member of the Herald Church, Bessie,Okla. on May 12, 1913.

In May of 1918 he and his brother left home and went to Canada because of more favorable military laws. In August of the same year the rest of the family left for Canada. Father bought a farm four miles east of Laird, Sask. Here he became a member of the Rosenort Church. In 1929, when the Eigenheim Church was organized, he became a member of that church, remaining a member there until his death.

On Nov. 4, 1922 he married Listen Jantzen, daughter of Heinrich and Maria Jantzen. The young couple made their home near the parental home east of Laird. Five children were born to them, all of whom were present at the funeral service.

Through much labor and blessings from the Lord, he was able to provide a comfortable home. He was concerned not only about material things but also about his family's spiritual needs. The family altar set the tone for the spirit of the home, as also the regular attendance at church services. He took active interest in the work of the church.

After all the children had left home, they left the farm in 1962 and moved to Rosthern where they built a new home, he himself doing most of the work. Also in his retirement he was still active, mostly in carpenter work.

A little over a year ago the doctor ordered complete rest because of a heart condition. Later other complications set in. When, after the verdict of the doctor was cancer in an advanced stage, he realized that he had to prepare to meet God. This resulted in severe inner struggles until he could say: Not my will, O Lord, but thy will be done.

In the last two months it became necessary for someone to be at his bedside for the night. A number of brethren from the church offered to share in this service. In that way the church also shared in his suffering.

He passed away to be with the Lord in the early morning hour of Aug. 14, 1965. He reached the age of 68 years, three months, and 26 days.

He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife, three sons, two daughters, three daughters-in-law, two sons-in-law, 18 grandchildren, three brothers and their families and the family of his brother Jacob who predeceased him.

The Mennonite obituary: 1965 Sep 21 p. 591