Leslie Paul Claassen

Leslie Paul Claassen, 87, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away at his residence on August 22, 2025. Les was born in Bancroft, South Dakota to Herman and Pauline Claassen. He and his older brother grew up in a farmhouse without electricity or plumbing. They worked the farm while attending school in town. Les graduated in 1955 with eight classmates.

Les left home at 17 to join the United States Air Force. He met his wife of 57 years, Barbara, while stationed in Great Falls, Montana. Over the next 21 years, the Air Force sent him to Kansas, Okinawa, California, Arizona, South Dakota, and numerous tours to Thailand. Les retired from the USAF in 1976 as a Senior Master Sergeant.

After returning to Tucson, Les began his second career at Learjet, where he spent another 20 years before fully retiring. Les and Barb then spent several years traveling the United States in their motorhome, spending time with many dear friends and family members.

Bowling was a huge part of Les’ life. He began bowling shortly after joining the Air Force and continued until one month before his passing. Les bowled numerous perfect 300 games and won many awards and tournaments. The best part of bowling was all the wonderful friends he made along the way.

The last seven years of Les’ life were glorious. He spent much of his time with his grandsons, daughter, and sweetheart. He cruised to the Bahamas, Canada, Upper New England, Norway, Panama Canal, and Alaska. Les often said, “My golden years have truly been golden.”

Les possessed a rare and exceptional character, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He had a remarkable ability to repair almost anything and maintained an inspiring sense of calm even in the most challenging circumstances. He exemplified complete gentlemanliness at all times.

Les’ memory lives on through his daughter, Paulette, his grandsons, Griffin, Ryan, and Dylan, his sweetheart, Joyce, and his brother, Marvin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Pauline, brother Harold, wife, Barbara, son, Boyd, and son in law, George.

Donations to Bowlers for Veterans League may be made to BVL.org in Les’ name.

A visitation for Leslie will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at East Lawn Palms Mortuary, 5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712. A funeral service will occur Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712. A graveside service will occur Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM, 5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712.