It is with broken hearts that we say goodbye to our beloved wife and mother, Eileen Grace Klassen.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband Verne, children Roseanne (Geoff) and Randy (Kim), grandchildren Jude, Maryn, Tessa and Sophia, siblings Lil (Les) and Rod (Joanne), along with many special in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her son (Russel), sister (Judy) and parents (Dietrich and Agatha Dyck).
Eileen was born in Bassano, Alberta on May 16, 1953. The third of four children, she was raised on the family farm just south of Rosemary. Described by her siblings as having an exceptional memory, a mind for numbers, and just a little bit of attitude, Eileen was determined and never backed down from a challenge.
She grew up playing the piano and learning the fine art of cooking, canning and baking in her mother’s kitchen. She finished high school at Rosthern Junior College in Saskatchewan, then attended Swift Current Bible Institute where she completed her Grade 10 piano and met the love of her life. This was followed by secretarial training at Saskatoon Business College and marriage to Verne Klassen on Nov. 10, 1973.
The young couple lived in Coaldale and Rosemary before settling on an acreage just west of Duchess in 1980. Eileen taught piano, volunteered in the community, and made our house a home where everyone was welcome. She loved having people around her table and was known far and wide for her hospitality. Her doughnuts and cinnamon buns were legendary, and it wasn’t uncommon to find dough for both rising at the same time.
She worked several jobs over the years, but her focus was in the home. Not only did she play the roles of chef, chauffeur and caregiver to her own kids, she held the title of “second mom” to many more. When she wasn’t busy taking care of everyone else, she enjoyed books, puzzles and a good visit. Above all, she loved playing cards with her very special canasta ladies and spending time with her grandkids.
Her love for her family was fierce and her faith was strong. She would do anything for those she loved which was demonstrated by how hard she fought to stay with us, even when the odds seemed so impossible.
Eileen passed away peacefully on November 3, 2022 after a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia. We extend our deepest gratitude to Eileen’s entire care team at Tom Baker Cancer Centre for their kindness and compassion. It will never be forgotten.
A celebration of life will be held at Rosemary Mennonite Church on Saturday, November 12 at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.
For further information, to light a memorial candle or to leave a message of sympathy, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.
