Jacob Klassen passed away Dec. 15, 1996.

He was born June 25, 1917 to Jacob and Susanna Klassen in Sagradowka, Russia. The family moved to Alexanderwohl, Molotschna the next year, escaping the rampage of bandits who killed most of the men of the area.

The family immigrated to St. Elizabeth, Man. in 1926. They bought a farm in Kenton, Man. 3 years later, where he came to faith in Christ.

He left home in 1938, moving to the Fraser Valley in B.C. where he found work. He married Lena Nikkel Aug. 15, 1940 in Yarrow, B.C. He worked as an electrician, but in 1941 was drafted into military service.

He worked as a conscientious objector in forestry camps. They moved to Greendale, B.C. in 1947, where he maintained a small farm and developed an electrical and plumbing business. He built several houses and apartment buildings over the years.

He served Greendale MB Church in the areas of building, maintenance and finance. They moved to Ryder Lake, B.C., then Sardis, B.C. They moved to Clearbrook, B.C. in 1994, joining Clearbrook MB Church.

He enjoyed woodworking and making furniture for his family. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, travelling, photography and discussing politics. He was active in Bible studies and congregational meetings, where he was a strong advocate that the truth of Scripture be maintained. They travelled extensively internationally. He maintained a steadfast faith in God and was thankful for the blessings he received.

The funeral was Dec. 19 at Clearbrook MB Church, with Jacob Pauls and Jay Neufeld ministering. He Jacob Klassen of Clearbrook, B.C. was predeceased by grandson Gregory Warkentin in 1978. He is mourned by wife Lena; son Andrew, daughters Ingrid, Irma, Marianne, Madelene and Nancy; and 4 grandchildren was predeceased by grandson Gregory Warkentin in 1978. He is mourned by wife Lena; son Andrew, daughters Ingrid, Irma, Marianne, Madelene and Nancy; and 4 grandchildren.