William (Bill) Klassen, resident of Spirit River, AB, formerly of Wanham, AB, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, in Spirit River at the age of 87 years.

Bill was born on December 30, 1938, in what is now Ukraine, and came as a refugee with his family to Canada as a young child. They settled in Coaldale, AB, as farmers. Bill married Martha (Willms) in 1962 and continued to farm in Coaldale until they decided to move north in 1983. They came to the Wanham area, where they farmed until retirement. Bill had a passion for cattle and that became an important part of their farming venture. He loved animals, especially the dogs that he had over the years.

Bill was an active member of the local church and participated for as long as he could. He encouraged his children in his own quiet way to pursue their own paths. He loved his grandchildren and was very proud of them.

Bill will be sadly missed by his children, Susan, Margie (Kim), Dave (Lois), and Dan; his grandchildren, Jennifer (Jimmy), Alex, Sam (Kate), Katherine, Nicole (Dan), Jake, Matthew, and Katie; his great-grandchildren, Wesley, Vincent, Gwen, Rory, and Violet; and his brother, Jake.

He was predeceased by his wife, Martha; his daughter, Angela Joy; his parents, Peter and Elizabet; his brother, Peter (Frieda); his sister, Elizabeth (Harry); and his sister-in-law, Erna.

We will celebrate Bill’s life with a small, private graveside service, where he will be laid to rest next to Martha at the Westvale Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to MCC Alberta (https://mcc.org/), who Bill supported for many years.