Klassen, William (1936-2003)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2004 Feb 27 p. 29

Birth date: 1936 Jun 15

text of obituary:

WILLIAM (BILL) KLASSEN

William (Bill) Klassen died Sept. 14. He was born June 15, 1936 to John C. and Elizabeth Klassen in Crowfoot Alta. His mother died when he was 9. The family moved to Matsqui, B.C. Bill was involved in music in high school and at MB Bible Institute (now CBC). He married Lily Hooge in Aug. 1957. They settled in Vancouver where Bill worked and studied music education at UBC. He taught music in the Surrey School District for over 25 years. He directed choirs at Vancouver MB Church, then Willingdon Church from 1961 to 1994. He encouraged modern church music for youth, directing the first Christian contemporary musical in Vancouver. He also kept the old favourites. His Christmas and Easter productions were known throughout the city. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and enjoyed camping and driving trips. The funeral was Sept. 19 in Willingdon Church.