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WALTER KLASSEN Suddenly on April 17, 2017 surrounded by family, Walter was taken into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father, and his son Gordon (1976), and brother Jake (2010). A farm boy at heart, Walter had a wonderful childhood growing up on the family farm outside of Steinbach. During high school he met his wife Bettie and went on to enjoy 57 years together. His career path was one of service by becoming a funeral director, opening his first funeral home in Elmwood (1970), then building Klassen Funeral Chapel (1977). After taking time off to become a farmer again (Dream Acres) he established Friend's Funeral Service with his nephews. Walter was a man of few words but a lot of action, compassion and generosity. He enjoyed making friends from all walks of life and drawing them into his life of activities (cycling, cross-country skiing, wiener roasts, fishing, driving the boat and motorcycling). His life constantly reflected his unwavering faith in God and pursued that personal relationship daily. Almost two years ago he lost a partial leg through a motorcycle accident. He struggled to regain his mobility with the hope of a full active life. He has been surrounded by so many dear friends, family, nieces, nephews that poured so much love and joy into his life. He is survived by his wife Bettie; son Philip (Judy); grandchildren, Andrea and Ben; brothers, Ernest and Helmuth (Agnes). He was loved! Funeral service will be held on Friday, April 21, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Eastview Community Church, 3500 DeVries Avenue, with viewing one hour prior to the service. If friends desire, donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee or Siloam Mission.
Publish Date: Apr 20, 2017
WALTER KLASSEN Suddenly on April 17, 2017, surrounded by family, Walter was welcomed into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father, and his son Gordon (1976), and brother Jake (2010). Walter is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Bettie; son Philip (Judy); grandchildren Andrea and Benjamin; brothers Ernest, Helmut (Agnes); and many nieces, nephews and fabulous friends. Walter had a full and active life both in his career as a funeral director, in his church Eastview Community Church, and with his many friends and family. Funeral service will be held on Friday, April 21, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Eastview Community Church, 3500 DeVries Avenue, with viewing one hour prior to the service. If friends desire, donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee or Siloam Mission.
Publish Date: Apr 19, 2017
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 20, 2017
Condolences & Memories (11 entries)
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I have not seen Walter & Bettie for many years, but I have many fond memories of being their regular babysitter in Morden. Walter had a dry sense of humour, which made him so much fun to be around. We enjoyed him as our Youth leader in the MB church. My condolences to Bettie & family. - Posted by: Lois Janzen (Friend) on: Apr 21, 2017
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Betty, we are so deeply saddened to hear of Walters passing! We pass on our condolences to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: John & Janice Schellenberg (Friends) on: Apr 21, 2017
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I fondly remember Walter's dry sense of humor, and his support and assistance when I, as a young pastor, served in a funeral service. Praying that the God of all comfort holds you close in these days, Bettie and family, and looking forward to some wonderful reunions in the presence of our Lord! - Posted by: Garth Klassen (friend) on: Apr 21, 2017
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Dear Mrs. Klassen, I was so saddened to hear of Walter's passing. This wonderful gentleman has been part of my family's lives for many decades, beginning with his friendship with my mom and dad, Joyce and Bill, and continued with much grace over the years. He will be dearly missed. My heart and thoughts are with you, Darien Briercliffe - Posted by: Darien Briercliffe (Family Friend) on: Apr 21, 2017
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My dear, sweet Uncle Walter. I can't believe you're gone, how is this possible? Your gentle nature, kind heart and great sense of humour have been an inspiration to me my whole life long. You were a role model to so many and you will be deeply missed by us all. I love you Uncle Walter, and I look forward to seeing you again at our heavenly Hildebrand Hoot. Xoxo - Posted by: Wendy Whittaker (Niece) on: Apr 20, 2017
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I was fortunate to buy Dream Acres from Walter, and admired his huge heart and personal connection to the farm. He loved bringing old friends by to see the place and I looked forward to seeing him drive up the lane. He will be missed. So sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Jodi Harrison (acquaintance) on: Apr 20, 2017
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I am so sorry to hear about Walter's death. He was a kind and gentle man. You are in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: JUDITH HORCH SIEMENS (Family) on: Apr 20, 2017
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Bettie, I was so very saddened to hear about Walter's passing. It seems like just yesterday that you and I chatted about Walter after worship. Walter and I crossed paths many times over the years, with my late husband Thom officiating at services and Walter greeting people at the front door. We sometimes drove in the same vehicle to the cemetery. He was always gracious. Thank you to you, Bettie, as you gave him support in the background to provide a needed service to many over the years. I am praying for you and your family. Betty Schultz - Posted by: Betty Schultz (Friend) on: Apr 20, 2017
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I just ran into Walter on Saturday and as usual, I was reminded of the quiet kindness that Walter always bestowed upon others. Each time I chatted with him, I was taken back to the devastating loss of my mother, when Walter stood by our family not as a funeral director but as a friend. What a treasured gift he had of boundless faith, compassion and empathy; a gentle soul to the end. May you rest in peace, Walter, knowing the many lives you have touched. - Posted by: Mollie Kaatz (Giesbrecht) (Friend ) on: Apr 20, 2017
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Betty, our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. We will miss Walter's happy smile and the twinkle in his eyes. Verna /Rod - Posted by: Verna / Rod (Very great FRIEND) on: Apr 19, 2017
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Go in peace our beautiful friend! So many happy memories of times spent together - picnics, motorcycle trips, conversations, games. Walter, you were so loved and so missed. - Posted by: Rita Toews (Friend) on: Apr 19, 2017