Arnold Klammer

Arnold Klammer was born on November 6, 1932, in Riswig, Poland. His early years were shaped by the upheaval of the Second World War. Like so many of his generation, Arnold’s childhood was cut short—his schooling ended after Grade Five when he and his brother, Reinhardt, were forced into farm labour, separating them from their family for several years.

In 1946, his mother Olga managed to flee with the rest of her children to Torgelow, Germany. His father, Adolph, had gone missing in action during the war and was never seen again. Determined to rebuild a life for her family, Olga secured a small plot of farmland. In 1949, she was finally able to bring Arnold and Reinhardt back home to reunite the family and work the land together.

In 1951, seeking a better future, Arnold made the courageous decision to emigrate to Canada under the refugee resettlement program of the North American Baptist Association. To begin this journey, he was forced to cross no man’s land—not once, but twice—an extraordinary act of bravery that reflected his deep resolve and hope for a new beginning. He was welcomed in Vancouver by relatives who had previously settled there, and, with their help, he began building a new life. The rest of the Klammer family joined him in Canada in 1953. Arnold’s journey from war-torn Europe to Canada stands as a lasting testament to his resilience, determination, and devotion to family.

In Vancouver, Arnold met the love of his life, Helma Witt, and they were married in 1957. He had a strong spiritual foundation and accepted Jesus as his Saviour early in life—a faith that would guide and sustain him throughout the years. Driven by both his beliefs and an entrepreneurial spirit, Arnold built a successful business in backhoe and excavation services, earning a reputation for hard work and integrity. He was known for his sense of humour, the generosity he extended to so many over the years, and his lifelong love of walking.

Arnold was predeceased by his beloved wife, Helma, in 2015. He passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He is deeply mourned by his children—David (Joanne), Marilyn (Len), Anita (Mario), Ed (Cheryl), and Joy (Pat)—as well as 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Henderson Funeral Home in Langley on July 9, 2025, at 12:00pm, officiated by Rev. Len Mittelstaedt.

In Liew of flowers please consider a donation to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association at https://secure.billygraham.ca/donate/ or Christian's for Israel at https://www.c4iamerica.com/