Obituary of Frieda Klassen

November 16, 1938 – Steinbach, Manitoba

January 15, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

Frieda Klassen (nee Sawatzky), beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at the age of 83 years.

Frieda was raised on a farm in Abbotsford, BC. She met the love of her life, Walter, in Clearbrook, BC and they were married in 1961. They settled in Calgary where they had four children. Frieda will be remembered for her generosity, kindness and gentle spirit. She enjoyed a twenty-one year career with The Hudson’s Bay. When not working, Frieda also enjoyed baking, gardening, needle crafts and jigsaw puzzles.

Frieda is survived by her four children: Sharon Klassen (Doug Beddome), Jim Klassen (Daylene), Mark Klassen (Paula), and Tanya Janssen (Corey); her four grandchildren: Marie Klassen, Jayce Klassen, Katrina Janssen and Luke Janssen; her brother Frank Sawatzky,  and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her loving husband Walter, parents Aganeta and Heinrich Sawatzky, sister Nettie, and brothers Henry, George and Herman.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the funeral home. Those attending will be asked to provide valid government identification (with name and date of birth) AND confirm one of the following: (A) Provincial vaccine record with QR code (paper or digital); OR (B) negative COVID test (within 72 hours); or (C) valid medical exemption (signed letter); OR (D) under 12 years of age. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

Frieda’s family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Unit 49 care team at the Peter Lougheed Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion in her final weeks.  Throughout her last years, Frieda received essential medical support through various home care programs and her family would also like to extend their sincere appreciation to Sandy Taylor RN, Vikki Frizzley RN and Dr. Aneal Khan of the M.A.G.I.C. Clinic of Calgary. In lieu of flowers, please remember Frieda through a donation to the Canadian Fabry Association.

In living memory of Frieda Klassen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.