Klassen, David John (1881-1977)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1977 May 13 p. 29

Birth date: 1881 Aug 10

text of obituary:

DAVID JOHN KLASSEN

The first son of Johann Jacob and Katharina (nee Vogt) Klassen, David John Klassen, was born on August 10, 1881 in southern Russia. He trained as a teacher in Chortitza, and during his first year of teaching, on the last day of 1902, he accepted Christ into his life. He was baptized and joined the Mennonite Brethren Church, in which he was to spend many fruitful years as a minister and teacher.

On June 26, 1905 he married Katharina Dyck. The Klassens were blessed with 10 children, five of whom predeceased their parents. Mr. Klassen's teaching career was interrupted by over two years spent in the Anadoler Forestry Camp during the first world war and the Revolution that followed. In 1924 they were finally able to emigrate to Canada, settling first in Hepburn, Sask., then in Coaldale, Alta. During the next 15 years the Coaldale Church grew, and he was ordained to the ministry there in 1937.

The Klassens moved to Yarrow, B.C. in 1941, his home until his passing on January 19. Through the years until retirement he served the church, assisting with preaching, teaching German and Sunday school, in choir work and other areas. He loved his family, and spent much time naming his children and grandchildren in prayer. During his last one and a half years he required constant nursing care, provided lovingly by his daughter Anna. The family trusts that through their father 's long and fruitful lif many were guided and blessed by his faithful witness.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Katharina; one son, David and his wife Susie; four daughters, Katie (Mrs. Cornelius) Regehr, Elizabeth (Mrs. John) Langeman, Agatha and Anna; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a sister, Maria (Mrs. Alexander) Poglodzinski; and many friends.