Olive Diana Klassen was born on September 23, 1943, in Winnipeg, MB, to Pete and Dora Thiessen. She left us on the evening of June 25, 2026, surrounded by her family. A rainbow was over the hospital, and the angels were there to safely take her home. Her death was caused by a short but intense battle with ALS, which she fought with courage and determination.

Mom's first 2 years were spent on their family farm near Rosenort, MB. From there they travelled across the country in their Model A Ford, settling in Crooked Creek, AB, making this her lifelong home.

Mom said in her words, “I made my commitment to serve the Lord the rest of my life and was baptized in 1954.” She married Wayne Klassen on October 21, 1962, and sharing life with her best friend for over 63 years. Their first primitive cabin was in the logging camp where Dad worked at the sawmill, coming back to the community for the summer & soon buying the farm where they raised their 5 children.

Mom loved hospitality and making friends wherever she went. She took a keen interest in people's lives and listened without judgement over a cup of coffee with those that stopped by. She supported Dad in his deaconry, and they both enjoyed their time pioneering the Edmonton guesthouse as well as the Hague mission. Mom's prayer life was important, and she learned to give her cares to the one who could carry them. In the mornings while she was making breakfast, we could hear her singing, and that was her song for the day. She lived a happy and victorious life.

Mom was a hard worker, tending her garden and starting her own fabric store, Country Stitches, operating it on our yard and giving us girls employment at home. She could whip up a quick meal efficiently and took many meals to the field, making it a fun picnic.

Taking their time on road trips was something they enjoyed— especially going to visit their children in Oliver, BC, and Pincher Creek, AB, many times. Their trip by train across Canada with their 2 granddaughters was a real highlight, as well as going to the Ark and Creation Museum. Mom's favourite place was home, and this is where she was the happiest, tootling around in her little golf cart, or heading out to their cabin with a big pot of chilli and an evening with family. Many hours were spent on the front porch in her rocking chair with a fire and friends stopping by for a chat.

Grandma's mischievous twinkle endeared her to her grandchildren, and we shared uncontrollable laughter while camping and playing Qwirkle together. She loved new adventures, whether crossing the creeks to Kakwa on Grandpa's quad or joining in on the grandchildren's escapades. We treasure the study Bibles that were gifted us. Her joyful spirit made every moment special.

Those left to cherish memories are her husband Wayne, their children Gary & Lorna Klassen, of Oliver, BC, Rhonda & Les Toews, of Crooked Creek, AB, Joanne & Kelly Toews, of Pincher Creek, AB, Wendy & Kelly Reimer, of Pincher Creek, AB, Darel & Paulie Klassen, of Crooked Creek, AB; 17 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. One sister, Marion, and Keith Isaac; 2 sisters-in-law, Viola Thiessen and Lill Thiessen; her Klassen sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and many dear relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, 4 brothers, and 2 sisters, 3 brothers-in-law and 2 sisters-in-law.

A Funeral Service will be held on July 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Rosedale Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, Crooked Creek, AB, followed by a Graveside Service at the Rosedale Cemetery, Crooked Creek, AB. With a Reception to follow at the Rosedale Church of God in Christ, Mennonite.

If family and friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Olive's family here.