Classen Gramm

Classen Gramm, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 86. He is survived by his daughters, Anne Anthony, Donna Rubio, and Karen Coutts; and by his loving grandchildren: Maya and Jackson Coutts, Catherine Anthony, and Elena Rubio.

Classen was known for his warmth, sense of humor, and quiet commitment to the people and causes he cared about. Thoughtful and grounded, he valued family, faith, and helping others in meaningful ways. He led with kindness, showed up for those around him, and believed in doing the right thing—often without any fanfare. Those who knew him remember his genial spirit, loyal friendship, professional integrity, and enduring love for Notre Dame football.

Born in Albany, New York, Classen attended Siena College before earning his law degree from the University of Notre Dame. After accepting a position as an attorney, he moved to San Diego with his mother, Marie Gramm. It was there he met his future wife, Patricia Gornick, at a social club for single Catholic professionals.

Classen and Patricia married in 1967 and raised three daughters—Anne, Donna, and Karen. He expressed his love through countless small gestures: offering pro bono legal work to those in need, visiting his mother daily when she lived just blocks away, and faithfully attending his daughters’ sports games and school activities—well before that was the norm for many fathers.

An active member of Toastmasters, Classen could captivate a room with his voice. Whether saying a simple grace before a meal with his family, talking intently with his bible study group, or delivering a speech to a room full of people--he carried this love of communication throughout his life. This was especially true toward the end as he further embraced self-expression, marked by thoughtful as well as lighthearted and fun moments shared with those closest to him.

Classen used his years of Toastmasters' experience to coach his young daughters in public speaking, and to find other ways to support and enrich their lives. From creating fun and elaborate Easter egg hunts as children and teens, to filling their cars with gas, and bringing home donuts on Sunday mornings. When Anne and Donna began their careers as teachers, he encouraged them to live at home —enabling them to save money and travel. Every Valentine’s Day, even after each daughter was married, he made sure to give See’s candy not just to his wife, Pat, but to his daughters as well.

A devoted member of Sacred Heart Church of Ocean Beach, Classen served on the parish and finance counsel and remained an active part of the parish community throughout his life.

Classen will be remembered for the steady way he showed he cared, his sense of humor, and the lasting impact he made on those around him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Classen’s memory to Sacred Heart Church of Ocean Beach, Siena College (now Siena University), the University of Notre Dame, or Toastmasters International.

A funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart of Ocean Beach, 4776 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107, at 10:00 a.m. on September 27. Guests are invited to wear Notre Dame’s colors—blue, gold, or green—in celebration of Classen’s love for his alma mater. A reception will follow in the church hall.