John E. Klassen died Apr. 17, 2009. He was born Feb. 23, 1923 in Neu Samara, Russia to John C. and Elizabeth Klassen. When John was 3, the family moved to Canada in search of religious freedom. John committed his life to Jesus Christ and was baptized while living in Lindbrook, Alta. In 1948, he moved with his family to Matsqui, B.C., where he met Leona Wiens. They married on Oct. 6, 1949. John and Leona ministered for more than 40 years with the MB church, beginning in 1953. They served in Oliver, Black Creek, Abbotsford, and Vancouver Island in B.C., and in Hepburn, Sask. They ministered God’s Word, comfort and help to the congregations, visiting people in their homes, in hospitals, and in care facilities. John’s strong desire was that everyone experience a relationship with Jesus Christ. John had the unique privilege to baptize each of his children and to officiate at their weddings. He and Leona prayed for their children every day. His family enjoyed his sense of humour and sought out his godly wisdom. He will be remembered as a hero of the faith who walked closely with God. John was a member at Clearbrook MB Church. Predeceased by 2 brothers; John is mourned by Leona; children Loreen (Rick) Hall, Les (Val), Joyce (Al) Boldt, Carolyn (James) Klassen, Sharon (Randy) Baerg; 13 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 5 siblings.
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