Irene Margaret Klassen

Irene Klassen passed peacefully and with dignity on May 17, 2025 at the Health Sciences Center, at the age of 88.

Irene will be lovingly remembered by her children: Linda Edwards (Kevin), Ronald Klassen (Leona), Lois Brothers, and Pamela Lawrence (Ian), by her grandchildren: Allison Penner, Nicole Sifuentes (Antonio), Mallory Edwards (Carson), Kyla Neufeld (Bryan), Amanda Longmuir (Kristopher), Daniel Klassen (Christine), Keziah Brothers, Josiah Brothers. Jack Lawrence, Gabrielle Lawrence, Joseph Lawrence, and by her great grandchildren: Russell Penner, Raymond Penner, Enna Penner, Elliot Quade, Tonio Sifuentes, Bronwyn Edwards, Georgia Edwards, Chanan Edwards, Annaliese Neufeld, Lydia Longmuir, Kenan Longmuir, by her brother Walter Peters (Mary), and by her sister Delores Meikle, along with many nieces and nephews.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Frank Klassen, her sister Helen Klassen, her brothers Jake Kehler, and David Kehler, and her grandson Benjamin Brothers.

Irene was born in Winkler, Manitoba in 1936 where she spent most of her childhood. In 1950, her family moved to Grunthal and there she completed Grade 8.

She then went to live in Winnipeg, finding employment in the service and retail industries. In Winnipeg, Irene met her husband Frank and they married in 1956. Together, they raised their four children and over the years welcomed many grandchildren.

In 1996, Irene and Frank returned to Grunthal where they lived happily for over 20 years. In Grunthal, they enjoyed the fellowship of the FEBC church community, all the while connecting with family and friends.

After Frank’s passing in April of 2017, Irene moved to Winnipeg and settled in Lindenwood Manor. At Lindenwood she was a steady, loyal and generous friend. Those near to her knew they could always rely on her care and support.

Irene was described as a godly woman who used her gifts of hospitality and helps continually -- these were second nature to her. Her unwavering faith in Jesus was clear to all those who knew her. She loved to spend time with her family and took every opportunity to travel with her children, visiting destinations including Mexico, Grand Cayman Island and Arizona.

She enjoyed her Bible study groups, reading, gardening, sewing, going for walks, and watching “When Calls the Heart.”

Her final days were spent at the Health Sciences Center, listening to hymns and surrounded by her family. Special thanks to the staff of H7 and GB2 for your compassionate care of our beloved mother.

A Funeral Service for Irene will be held Friday, May 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Thomson "In the Park" Funeral Home and Cemetery, 1291 McGillivray Blvd, Winnipeg, MB, with a reception to follow. A graveside service will take place after the reception from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Grunthal Cemetery, Red Wing Trail, Grunthal, MB