David John Klassen 1881 - 1976

Retired minister Rev. David J. Klassen, 32317 Highland Drive, Yarrow died January 1976 at his residence.

David, the first son of Johann Jacob & Kathareina (Vogt) Klassen was born on August 10, 1881 in Franzfeld, Yazykovo, southern Russia. He trained as a teacher in Chortitza and on the last day of his first year of teaching in 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 beloved minister and teacher.

On June 26, 1905, he married Katharina Dyck. The Klassens were blessed with 10 children: five of whom predeceased their parents. Katharina (Katja), Marie (Marusja) David D., Agatha, Helena and Jacob survived.

Mr. Klassen’s teaching career was interrupted by over two years spent in the Anadoler Forsestry 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 Coaldale, Alta. During the next 15 years the Coaldale Church grew and he was ordained to the ministry there in 1937. The Klassen family moved to Yarrow, B.C. in 1941; his home until his passing on January 19, 1977. Through the years until retirement, he served the church, assisting with preaching, teaching German School and Sunday school at Yarrow MB where he was a much beloved teacher and story teller. He had a men’s choir and helped in other areas in the Church and community.

He loved his family and spent much time in 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 trust that through their father’s long and fruitful life, many were guided and blessed by his faithful witness.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Katharina; one son David (Susie), four daughters: Katie (Cornelius) Regehr; Elizabeth (John) Langeman; Agatha and Anna; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a sister: Maria (Alexander) Poglodzinski and many friends. He was predeceased by one grandchild in 1964.

Funeral services were held January 22, 1977 at Yarrow Mennonite Brethren Church with Rev. A. L. Klassen officiated. Pallbearers were John Regehr, David, John and Edward Klassen, Robert and Richard Langeman. Interment was at Yarrow Cemetery. Woodlawn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Photo is of David Klassen in the center singing with his Yarrow men’s group.