Klassen, Peter (1934-2002)

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

Birth date: 1934 May 19

text of obituary:

PETER KLASSEN

Peter Klassen passed away June 14. He was born May 19, 1934 to Abram and Aganetha Klassen in Fernheim, Paraguay. His childhood was spent on the family farm in Waldesruh. He was baptized at 15, joining the EMB Church in Filadelfia. He sang in the choir and taught Sunday school. He had 2 years of high school and attended Bible school. He had a heart for missions. He married Berta Balzer Aug. 13, 1960. He had a sharp mind for details and could do math in his head. He worked as a bookkeeper in the industrial department of Fernheim Mennonite Colony. In 1964 he and Berta moved to Vancouver. They maintained close connections with their families in Paraguay. He began working for B.C. Millwork as a labourer and forklift operator two years later, retiring after 29 years. He was a dedicated worker, grateful for his job. In Vancouver MB Church, he served as youth leader, treasurer, Sunday school superintendent, council member and deacon. He was always early for church, had his favourite pew, strongly supported Conference ministries and loved attending MB conventions. He was generous and giving, hosted many people in his home and visited and encouraged others. He was quiet, calm, supportive husband and father. He loved reading and listening to music. Though legally blind by 1997, he never complained. His physical health deteriorated, but his spirit did not. He had confidence in God and was committed to prayer. He regularly went for walks, played games and drank mate. Predeceased by 1 brother, he is mourned by Berta; son Leonard; 3 brothers and 1 sister.