PETER FRANZ KLASSEN

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PETER FRANZ KLASSEN With his daughter at his side, after a brief struggle with cancer, Peter Franz Klassen passed away at Riverview Health Centre on October 23, 2004. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Mary; his parents, Katharina and Franz Klassen; his brothers, David and Abram; his first wife Agnes; and infant son. He is survived by his only daughter Karen, her husband Jim, their children, Sandra and Daniel; his brothers, Franz and Kornelius; his devoted friend Anna Klassen; and a legion of friends and relatives. Peter was born in Steinfeld, in the Ukraine in 1922. He began his university studies in Odessa and then, like many, was interrupted by many interesting experiences under his belt - he made his way to Canada in 1947. Through the Nipigon Paper Company, Dad arrived in the bush and began a years work and a lifetime of friendships with his lumberjack buddies. Peter then moved to Manitoba to continue his education and be closer to his relatives. He went to the MCI in Gretna to catch up with his education in English. It was at this time that he met the love of his life, Mary Dyck. She was working as a nurse in Altona and he was visiting a sick friend. They were married in 1952. In the meantime, Peter acquired three degrees from the University of Manitoba and began his long and distinguished career in education. From his first job teaching to his last post as Principal of Salisbury-Morse Place from which he retired in 1987, Peter loved his profession. He made many friends of his colleagues and students. He also taught Russian for many years at night school and was Superintendent of Sunday School at First Mennonite Church. Peter and Mary started their family in 1957 with the adoption of Karen Ann. With the advent of grandchildren, Sandra in 1979 and Daniel in 1982, their joy was complete. Peter lived a long and joyful life and he thanked the Lord everyday for this blessing. A service celebrating the life of Peter will be held Friday, October 29 at 1:30 p.m. at First Mennonite Church, 922 Notre Dame Ave., with Rev. Hermann Dueck officiating. Interment will follow at Brookside Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ken Martens, Neil Neumann, George Brown, John Loewen, Rudi Schulz and John Reimer. Honorary pallbearers will be Kendra and Krista Klassen, Tonia, Conrad and David Berger. If desired, contributions may be made in Peters memory to CancerCare Manitoba, ON 109 - 675 McDermot Ave., R3E 0V9. KLASSEN FUNERAL HOME 1897 Henderson - North of McIvor - 925-1120

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 28, 2004