Abe Klassen

On Friday, June 21, our father, Abram Klassen, took his last breath. He was our dad, grandfather, great grandfather, and great great grandfather, and Uncle. He passed away after a brief stay at the Altona Memorial Hospital at the age of 91. Abe leaves behind children Brenda (Harold) Derksen; Debbie (Mark) Heinrichs; Delores (Bruce)Smith; Terri (Rob) Bergman, 11 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, 4 brothers, and 1 sister in infancy. 

Dad was born November 13, 1932 to Dave A and Elizabeth Klassen in Rosenfeld. He grew up with 3 older and 1 younger brother. Dad and mom met at the school they attended in Shienau. He attended school until grade 8. Dad and mom dated for a few years before their marriage in 1953. He was also baptised in 1953 at the Sommerfelder Church. In 1960 they bought a new house and moved it on to a lot that they bought from mom’s father. They lived most of their marriage at their current address in Altona. Dad worked in construction most of his life – until his retirement in 1997. This included a partnership with brother Edwin – A & E Klassen Bros. They dug most dugouts in Southern Manitoba, drove many piles, and built many bridges. Dad enjoyed curling in winter, fishing weekends in summer, and getting together many evenings with his brothers to play music. 

In July 2023 he said goodbye to his wife Lydia of 69 years. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 bladder cancer a month later. He weathered a few hospital stays, 20 radiation treatments and was able to stay at home until June 14th. He passed away one week later at the Altona Memorial Hospital. 

We’d like to thank the hospital staff for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Palliative Care. 

A private memorial service for family and relatives of Abe will be held on Thursday June 27, 2024 at the Altona Senior Centre at 11:00 a.m. with burial at the Altona Cemetery prior to the service. Viewing will be at Wiebe Funeral Home on Wednesday June 26, 2024 from 1:00 - 9:00 pm. 

Memorial donations in memory of Abe can be made to the Altona and District Palliative Care.