Ted Klassen

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TED KLASSEN

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, Ted Klassen. Ted Klassen, 63, of Steinbach, MB passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family after a short fight with cancer.

Ted was born on Nov. 22, 1949 in Steinbach, MB to John S. and Nettie Klassen. He was the seventh of eight children. Ted married Nettie Unrau of Morris in 1972 and they lived in Steinbach until moving to Landmark in 1977 where they lived together until 2010. They raised three sons, Mike, Chris and Steve. They attended church in Landmark until 2010 and shortly after Southland Church became Ted’s church family.

Ted worked in construction for a number of years before working 30 years in the maintenance department at Palliser Furniture. He demonstrated a great work ethic to his sons through his jobs and at home. He was also involved with the activities of his sons and participated closely by being a leader in Boys Club and coaching their softball teams. He supported his children and grandchildren by attending their sporting events, school events and concerts.

Ted loved the outdoors. He took his family camping annually and fished whenever he could with family or friends…so much in fact that in 2002 the family purchased a trailer at Pye’s Landing at Clearwater Bay, ON. Many, many hours were spent walking, boating and fishing there. They generously shared their space with anyone. The last couple of years he loved to stay active outdoors and would walk and bike for miles around Steinbach to keep in good shape. He would also walk or bike to his job at MCC. Ted would bike to A.D. Penner Park on a regular basis to see if there was ball to watch, spending the evening outside.

Ted also enjoyed playing music…guitar, harmonica and, for some extra “fun”, organ at our home. For many years he played in and sang with the gospel group Springs of Living Water and later with Nettie’s family in the group Family Circle. Ted would later minister through music wherever he could by playing his guitar with a group of men.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Nettie (nee Unrau) and their three sons, Mike (Tamara), Chris (Lisa) and Steve; four grandchildren, Raena, Kyra, Taylor and Jaden; five brothers, two sisters and many nieces and nephews.

Family waiting to greet Ted in heaven are his father John S. Klassen and mother Nettie, his father-in-law Herman Unrau, his infant son Teddy and infant daughter Katherina Nettie.

On behalf of the whole family, thanks to the many friends and extended family that have shown tremendous compassion and love both to Ted in his last days and to the family during this time of loss. Thank you to Southland Church and its ministers and his cell group. Thank you for the gifts of memories and music and prayers.

A viewing was held on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at Birchwood Funeral Chapel. Viewing will also be held at the church prior to the service.

A celebration of Ted’s life will be held Thursday, Oct. 17 at 11 a.m. at Southland Church with interment to follow at Heritage Cemetery.

In Ted’s memory, donations may be made to the MCC Thrift Store.

Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel
1-204-346-1030 or 1-888-454-1030.

As published in The Carillon on Oct 31, 2013