Leona Klassen

Leona Klassen passed peacefully from this world into the continuing presence of her Lord and Saviour on March 25, 2026, at the age of 96. Her lifelong faith and how she walked it out in ordinary life, had a profound impact on her family and those who knew her.

Leona was born on September 7,1929 in Carmel, SK to William and Mary Wiens. She was the third of 7 children. Her family moved to the Fraser Valley when she was quite young.

In 1949, she married John Klassen from Matsqui. John and Leona had one son and four daughters. Early in their marriage, they began a life of fulltime pastoral ministry in churches in Oliver, Black Creek, Hepburn, and the Clearbrook MB Church. Throughout those years, Leona was involved in many aspects of church life, wherever she saw a need. Her warm hospitality was greatly appreciated, and over the years she and John hosted many, many people in their home. Many of those meals included food that she had grown in her own garden.

Leona’s journals during that busy time include many notes about God’s sustaining love, presence, and help. After John passed away in 2009, Leona continued to attend and serve in her church for as long as she could.

Leona always enjoyed finding beauty in the world around her, and she especially loved flowers and arranging them. In midlife, Leona began to paint beautiful landscapes.

Leona had an extra special place in her heart for all her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. They loved her home baking, treats, and stops for ice-cream after a game of minigolf. Everyone knew they were always loved and welcomed.

Leona and John had a lifelong love for each other and all their family. They prayed daily for them, speaking each person’s name. After John passed away, Leona continued that commitment, including her last night in the hospital.

They had 5 children, Lori (Rick) Hall, Les (Val) Klassen, Joyce (Al) Boldt, Carolyn (James) Klassen, and Sharon (Randy) Baerg, 13 grandchildren, and 27 great grandchildren.

Leona is also survived by two sisters: Rita Klassen and Ruth Martens, several in-laws, and a large extended family.

She will always be remembered as a woman of faith and courage, always loved, and forever missed.

A celebration of life for Leona will be held in May.