Klassen, Ruth Helen Thiessen (1929-2002)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2002 May 21 p. 25

Birth date: 1929 Feb 11

text of obituary:

RUTH HELEN KLASSEN

Ruth Helen Klassen of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Apr. 2 of cancer. She was born Feb. 11, 1929 to Franz C. and Margarethe Thiessen in Rosthern, Sask. The family moved to Winnipeg in 1932 and to Abbotsford in 1943. She accepted Christ at 10 and was baptized Aug. 5, 1945, joining South Abbotsford MB Church. She graduated from Mennonite Educational Institute in 1947. She spent a year studying piano and a year at Normal School in Vancouver. She married Harold Klassen Aug. 25, 1951. They lived in Clearbrook, B.C. She worked hard to provide a caring home for her family. She showed love to her children and grandchildren. She served God, her church and her community with music. She was a choir accompanist, piano teacher and church organist. She sang in many choirs throughout her life and enjoyed attending all kinds of concerts. She was adventurous and loved to travel. Cancer was diagnosed in October 2000. She lived graciously and courageously to the end, confident in God's loving presence. Predeceased by Harold and 3 sisters, she is mourned by children Irene Friesen, Rita, Randy, and Lorri Ratzlaff; 8 grandchildren; 1 sister and 1 brother. The memorial service was held Apr. 5 in Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, with Ross Johnston, Henry Thiessen and Michael Dick ministering.