Arthur "Art" Klassen

It is with great sorrow and sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Arthur John Klassen. He passed away on January 1, 2021 at the age of 90.

Art was born in Rosenfeld, MB, on June 28, 1930 and grew up on the family farm. He met the love of his life, Mary Dyck at a baseball tournament while coaching the opposing team. Art was smitten from the first time he laid eyes on her. They were married September 6, 1953. They started their lives together in Altona, MB, where Art worked at the sunflower plant and played hockey with the Altona Maroons. A few years later Art & Mary moved to Winnipeg. Here he worked at the Imperial Oil Refinery until he was able to buy his own bulk oil agency in Morden, Manitoba.

Art and Mary made lifelong friends everywhere they moved. They spend many years living in Portage la Prairie, MB where they were very involved in the community. Art loved singing in the Trinity United Church choir. In addition to participating in church events, he was involved in the city council, Rotary Club and the Portage Golf Club. Once he retired, Art and Mary enjoyed many winters in Texas where they were able to visit family and spend time golfing and appreciating the warm weather.

Art is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary (Dyck) Klassen, his four daughters, Marilyn Klassen (Dale), Debra Barratt (Greg), Kim Sigurdson (Brent), Tricia Klassen-Morton (Kelly).  And also nine grandchildren: Josh, Charlie, Mariell, Arthur (A.J.), Jordan, Robin, Katie, Arden and Kalan.  He is also survived by his siblings: Mary, Ken and Maureen as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents: John and Sarah Klassen, his sister Elma and brothers:  Bill, Eddie and Harold.

Art Klassen will be remembered by those who knew him as a very kind, generous and loving father, grandfather, uncle and friend.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses at the St. Boniface Hospital for the wonderful care they provided while Dad was in their care.

A memorial service will be held at a later date with more details to be announced.

We would like to thank family, friends and neighbours for their kind wishes and support. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation on Art’s behalf to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba 40 Royal Road North, Portage la Prairie MB R1N 1V1 or Central Plains Cancer Services 318 Sask. Ave. E., Portage la Prairie MB R1N 0K8 or to the charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com