Hilda Klassen (nee Friesen)

Hilda Klassen (née Friesen)

February 23, 1928 – August 27, 2026

With sadness, but thankful for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, Hilda Klassen (née Friesen), on August 27, 2026. Born on February 23, 1928, in Halbstadt, to Helena and Henry Friesen, Hilda was the second child and oldest daughter of 12 children. She was known for her easy-going nature, gentle spirit, and kind heart. She was a very hard worker, helping her mother with their large family. She was not one to complain and saw the best in everyone, possessing a truly forgiving spirit. When life was challenging, she had an inner strength to persevere, which was a testament to her strong faith. Hilda truly lived her faith every day.

Shortly after their marriage, Hilda and her beloved husband, Jacob, attended a Christian revival event where they went forward together to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, a decision that anchored their 60 years of marriage. Hilda was a devoted, caring wife, never more so than when Jake went into care before his passing in 2010.

Her passion for helping others led her to return to school at age 50 to take a Nurses’ Aide course. She went on to touch many lives working as a Nurses’ Aide at the Emerson and Altona Care Homes. Hilda’s life was defined by her profound caregiving heart. When her baby sister Linda became ill as a toddler, resulting in permanent mental challenges, Hilda’s devotion never wavered. When Linda later moved to the 212 Residence Group Home in Altona, Hilda chose to work there to ensure her sister was beautifully cared for. Her instinct to care for others never left her; even while in the hospital awaiting her own care home placement, Hilda with her quiet patience could occasionally be found in other patients’ rooms, attending to their needs. Her patient soul and good sense of humor brought light to everyone around her.

Hilda's legacy of love lives on through her large family. She is survived by her six children: Marilyn Pappel, Shirley Borden, Jo Ann (Bryon) Heinrichs, Sharon Hruda, James (Virginia) Klassen, and Louise (Henry) Sawatzky. She is also lovingly remembered by her 11 grandchildren: Jodi Pappel (Shale Reider), Rachelle (Eugene) Gerszewski, Andrea Giesbrecht, Lindsey (Alan) Stender, Jennifer (Ryan) Ackers, Russell Heinrichs, Matthew (Analisa) Hruda, Kandace (Chad) Bailey, Courtney (Kevin) Myers, Brooke Sawatzky (Nicholas Knook), and Taylor (Devon) Posillipo. Her memory will further be cherished by her 25 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, and her two brothers, Pete and Ken (Laurel).

Hilda was predeceased by her husband, Jake (2010); nine of her siblings, including her beloved sister Linda (2024); her sons-in-law, Larry Pappel (2004), Steven Hruda (2016), and William Borden (2024); and her granddaughter, Robyn Procak (2022) (survived by husband Ian).

A very special thank you to her two surviving brothers, Pete & Ken. Your love for your sister was evident in your frequent visits which were so appreciated by her, and all of us.

Also, thank you to the Eastview staff for their loving care for the last seven years.

Thank you to Irene Kehler from the Altona Bergthaler Church for continuing to visit Hilda over these last years.

A Celebration of Life service to honor Hilda's faithful and beautiful life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 31 at the Altona Bergthaler Church, with burial at the Altona Cemetery.

Viewing will be on Sunday, August 30 from 1:00 - 7:00 p.m at Wiebe Funeral Home and at the church prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eastview Place or 212 Residence (Blue Sky).

The Klassen Family

See the Livestream link below.