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Judith KLASSEN Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother and grandmother two weeks shy of her 80th birthday. Judy was born in Winnipeg to Ivan and Iona Dowler following two brothers, Graham and John and followed by brother Danny—all deceased.

Judy leaves to carry forward her memory her son Greg, his spouse Siobhaun (Williams) and Judy's granddaughter Addie of Vancouver and son Danny of Richmond. She also leaves adored nieces and nephews, and many cousins and in-laws across Canada.

Judy grew up in Winnipeg and went to Gordon Bell High School where she excelled academically. She attended Manitoba Teachers College and became an elementary school music teacher. She taught in Manitoba for a few years but was drawn to the West Coast with a teaching position in Langley. On a weekend visit to Victoria, she met the love of her life, Jack Klassen also from Winnipeg. They married in 1962 and moved to Victoria where Judy continued to teach. Greg was born in 1963 in Victoria followed by Danny in 1966 in Halifax.

After multiple moves, the family settled into Victoria in the mid 70's and Judy changed careers working for Canada Employment as a counselor. Judy loved her work, helping Canadians and new Canadians find their vocations.

Sadly, Jack passed away in 1991 and Judy began an era of life on her own, moving to the bucolic Brentwood Bay, where she found solace and comfort with a stunning view of the bay where Jack's ashes had been spread. Judy's passions were spending time with her family, quilting, leading bible study groups, playing bridge, farm to farm shopping on the Peninsula, family vacations in Kauai and her dogs. She was a life-long learner, avid reader, with a curious and mathematical mind and an amazing memory for the past- even until the end of her journey.

Above all, Judy held firm in her faith in Jesus Christ as her own personal lord and saviour. The family would like to thank that passionate care of the team at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital, Dr. Bourdon and her personal caregiver Cheri, along with her family and friends for their many hours of visits. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation or Camp Homewood. Funeral services will be held at Friendship Community Church, Saanichton, BC, on January 26th at 1:30 pm.
Published by Victoria Times Colonist from Jan. 19 to Jan. 21, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Judith KLASSEN

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8 Entries

Teresa Ranson

January 26, 2019

I will always remember Judy's smile, hair and nails. Always beautifully put together.Going to miss our quilting excursions with the girls.

Marnie Webb

January 22, 2019

I knew Jude when we were both teaching at Britannia School in St. James in the late '50s. We had some good times together with Gwen Hogg. We reconnected when I moved to the Seattle area in 1975. My husband and I went out for dinner with Judy a few years ago when we were in Victoria for an air force reunion. She was a lovely person! and I always enjoyed her company so much. Lots of laughter! I know she will be missed by many.

Eve Williams

January 21, 2019

Nana Judy Klassen and I shared a granddaughter, Addie Klassen. May Addie share some of Nana's creativity, intelligence, humour and quick wit. RIP Judy, you fought a tough unwinnable fight. Rest in a safe haven. We will speak of you often, fondly and with love.

Mary Murrell

January 21, 2019

Greg and Dan: I loved Judy's sense of humour. She was a remarkable woman. I am sure you will both miss her!

Pam Paterson

January 21, 2019

My fondest childhood memories involve Jack and Judy Klassen. Their laughter filled a room. When the dads were at sea we would gather at the Klassen's to watch The Wizard of Oz on the only colour TV around. Judy would make popcorn for everyone. I'm so very sorry for the loss of your Mother and Grandmother.

Sincerely,
Pammy Morse

April Atkins

January 21, 2019

Sorry to hear about Judy's passing. She was a wonderful cousin, I will miss her.

January 20, 2019

Sad for your loss thoughts go out to you all!!

Vance Capron

Ann Dow

January 19, 2019

Judy was a remarkable woman. Dwayne, Callum and I will miss her spirit and the kindness that she extended to our family. We will always remember Judy with love. God bless her soul.

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Memorial Events
for Judith KLASSEN

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