He was born on October 27, 1934 in Genemuiden, The Netherlands. At age 23, he immigrated to Canada with his fiancée and later wife, Willemina, whom he married on March 26, 1960. They enjoyed 58 married years together and raised 4 children.
He is survived by his wife Willemina, three sons and one daughter, Bernie, Leroy (Sandy), Vivian (Steve), David, his grandchildren Brandon (Meaghan), Jesse (Michelle), Haley (Matt), Dane, Brandy (Mitch), Courtney, Dallas, his great-grandchildren Lucas, Noah, Adaleigh, Tristan, and Willa. He is also survived by his sister Jantje and sister-in-law Albertje in The Netherlands.
Klaas was pre-deceased by his brothers Jan and Koop and in-laws Aage and Hermien.