Welcome to the memorial page for
John A Klassen
November 9, 1944 ~ August 4, 2016 (age 71) 71 Years Old Light a Candle
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A candle was lit by Karen Pomplun
on August 21, 2016 1:40 PM
I would like to express my deepest, most heartfelt sympathy to John's family.
I had been friends with John since our college days and remember him as a deep, sensitive person with great honor and integrity. We were both music students at MSU and once as we reminisced I asked if he remembered how he always used to go over my German pronunciations with me before I did a solo recital. He said he did remember it well, with a chuckle. As I recall he'd been minoring in German and was fluent in it so he always helped me make sure my German songs were sung correctly. He was a dear friend and once, in Music school, when I was going through a very hard time in my personal life and was also working hard, he became concerned about me. He was worried I was working too hard & spending too much time in the practice room and he gently told me so. That was John. Watching out for me. A kind and honest friend. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten in the hearts of all of us who knew and loved him. I pray loving memories will sustain and comfort his family at this difficult time and in all the days ahead.
With my deepest sympathy and prayers,
Karen Pomplun, South Windsor, CT
Old college friend
I would like to express my deepest, most heartfelt sympathy to John's family.
I had been friends with John since our college days and remember him as a deep, sensitive person with great honor and integrity. We were both music students at MSU and once as we reminisced I asked if he remembered how he always used to go over my German pronunciations with me before I did a solo recital. He said he did remember it well, with a chuckle. As I recall he'd been minoring in German and was fluent in it so he always helped me make sure my German songs were sung correctly. He was a dear friend and once, in Music school, when I was going through a very hard time in my personal life and was also working hard, he became concerned about me. He was worried I was working too hard & spending too much time in the practice room and he gently told me so. That was John. Watching out for me. A kind and honest friend. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten in the hearts of all of us who knew and loved him. I pray loving memories will sustain and comfort his family at this difficult time and in all the days ahead.
With my deepest sympathy and prayers,
Karen Pomplun, South Windsor, CT
Old college friend
Message from Jon Miller
August 15, 2016 6:51 PM
I am saddened to hear of John's passing but will forever be thankful for his impact in my life. I was a band student of his from 1986-1989 and was challenged to push my limits as he expected the best from me and wasn't satisfied with anything less than my best effort. He and I had a similar sense of humor and his dry wit always made me laugh. One summer he tolerated me working for him build his house and I learned what a renaissance man he really was with so many talents. He could play any instrument and could build masterful woodworking projects or homes with ease. He would simply laugh his dry laugh when I would do bonehead things like shoot a nail through plumbing PVC pipes. Never a harsh word, always encouraging. He will be missed.
Jon Miller
Jon Miller
Message from Amber Massey
August 13, 2016 1:02 PM
Thoughts and prayers! Papa K, you will be missed!
Message from Lori Lautaret Stoffer
August 10, 2016 7:43 AM
I was in high school twenty plus years ago, active in choir with "The Other Mr. Claussen," but through several joint choir/band efforts and having connecting class rooms, Mr. Klassen was strong in my periphery. He was so impactful - just by his presence - though we only spoke a handful of words to each other. I will always remember him sitting at his office desk or standing with arms crossed, silently engaged in whatever conversation was happening or observing the youthful shenangans going on around him. I learned that when his eyes squinted to contain the gleam, and the corners of his mouth upturned slightly, he was greatly amused.
To John's family: I can't imagine the darkness of these recent days for you. I have heard conversations about John around the community, and I hope you feel held by the sense of tremendous sadness we all have about this loss. Much peace to you.
- Lori Lautaret Stoffer
To John's family: I can't imagine the darkness of these recent days for you. I have heard conversations about John around the community, and I hope you feel held by the sense of tremendous sadness we all have about this loss. Much peace to you.
- Lori Lautaret Stoffer
Message from Dan Kohnstamm
August 9, 2016 6:29 AM
I am very saddened to hear of John's passing. I wish to share my condolences with Susan, Amy and Lisa.
John and I shared a lot of music together with his students preparing for District and State music festivals. I was one of John's accompanists from 1988 to 2006. His students were always prepared and shared his love of music. Many adjudicators couldn't believe that students did not study privately, that they learned to play music solely through his band program.
I shared many a lunchtime, too, just hanging out with him in his office as he'd answer questions from students that came in from the band room. They enjoyed their informal rapport with each other. He had the ability to have very high standards for students but also to enjoy being together.
I, too, enjoyed several relaxing visits to his ranch to chat. I remember one visit where he hoisted me up in the bucket of his tractor to pick apples. That was an adventure.
I will always remember our rehearsals with his students after school before District. Many of his students played college-level pieces by composers such as Poulenc or Richard Strauss. He exemplified the quality of teacher we all strive to be. I will miss him greatly.
Dan Kohnstamm
Whitefish High School Librarian
John and I shared a lot of music together with his students preparing for District and State music festivals. I was one of John's accompanists from 1988 to 2006. His students were always prepared and shared his love of music. Many adjudicators couldn't believe that students did not study privately, that they learned to play music solely through his band program.
I shared many a lunchtime, too, just hanging out with him in his office as he'd answer questions from students that came in from the band room. They enjoyed their informal rapport with each other. He had the ability to have very high standards for students but also to enjoy being together.
I, too, enjoyed several relaxing visits to his ranch to chat. I remember one visit where he hoisted me up in the bucket of his tractor to pick apples. That was an adventure.
I will always remember our rehearsals with his students after school before District. Many of his students played college-level pieces by composers such as Poulenc or Richard Strauss. He exemplified the quality of teacher we all strive to be. I will miss him greatly.
Dan Kohnstamm
Whitefish High School Librarian
Message from Jonathon Klassen
August 8, 2016 10:07 PM
I am happy to have had the chance to get to know John and appreciated his sense of humor, generosity and also admired his ability as a craftsman, outdoorsman and a linguist. He will be missed, my sincere condolences to his family.
Jonathon Klassen
Jonathon Klassen
Message from Lorri Nelson-Hustwaite
August 8, 2016 3:07 PM
I still can't wrap my head around this terrible loss. John was truly a wonderful neighbor and friend. I remember one time my horse got his leg stuck in a metal fence panel. John was out riding when I called him for help. He not only helped get the horse's leg out and told me how to doctor it, he went back to his place for some baling wire and strung it across the panel for me so it wouldn't happen again.
Tears prick my eyes every time I drive past your place Sue, please know we are here if you need anything. Our deepest sympathies ~ Lorri and Darryl, Nick and Ashleigh
Tears prick my eyes every time I drive past your place Sue, please know we are here if you need anything. Our deepest sympathies ~ Lorri and Darryl, Nick and Ashleigh
Message from Karen Ulmer
August 7, 2016 4:09 PM
John was an exceptional music educator who touched the lives of many students in many ways. He was also a wonderful colleague who was so very supportive of me, his fellow North Valley band director. I frequently called him for advice and he guided me through my first few District Music Festivals. He is also the one who told me I'd know when it was time to retire. He said "one day you will meet a new batch of freshmen and you will just know they are the ones". He was right.
But my favorite memories of John are from Music Educator Convention. John didn't really like going to convention and he would sit quietly by himself.But if you were lucky enough to sit next to him, his dry quiet sense of humor would have you in stitches.
You will be missed John Klassen, you made a difference and you will be missed.
Karen Ulmer
But my favorite memories of John are from Music Educator Convention. John didn't really like going to convention and he would sit quietly by himself.But if you were lucky enough to sit next to him, his dry quiet sense of humor would have you in stitches.
You will be missed John Klassen, you made a difference and you will be missed.
Karen Ulmer
Message from Andy Alley
August 7, 2016 1:17 PM
John was one of the people who did so much with so few words. He was hired in Whitefish when I was hired in Columbia Falls. We were the new guys up there and did spend quite a bit of time sharing thoughts and ideas.
I always enjoyed stopping by to visit as he worked on his cedar strip canoes. As he worked that was when we would bat ideas around. Always a gentle and kind word from him and some of the funniest things in so few words.
Prayers to his family and all who knew him
Andy Alley
I always enjoyed stopping by to visit as he worked on his cedar strip canoes. As he worked that was when we would bat ideas around. Always a gentle and kind word from him and some of the funniest things in so few words.
Prayers to his family and all who knew him
Andy Alley
Message from Mark McCrady
August 7, 2016 10:08 AM
The world lost a tremendous music educator and master craftsman this week. A beloved teacher and mentor, John Klassen touched countless lives. He knew that a quality product starts with the finest details-- imagine how many of his students carried that ethic into their careers and lives. John was kind, witty and wise. He always had a hilarious joke ready, never taking life too seriously. Though a man of few words, he knew when to stand up and speak boldly for things that mattered. HIs teaching style reminded me of a Clint Eastwood character. Words were chosen carefully, everyone knew who was in charge, and rehearsals were "no nonsense". Students knew they mattered to him, and that much was expected of them. John held them to the highest standard, which was always evident on the stage. He had arguably the finest class "A" band in the state of Montana. John let the music speak for itself, seldom addressing the audience. He always ended his concerts with the one-liner, "That's all we know." I got such a kick out of that.
Mr. Klassen handed over his life's work much like a father might hand over the keys to a classic car that shined with years of pride and care. I remember sitting on his deck as he described each student on the Varsity Band roster, showing how much he knew and cared for each of them. For a long time after that he would call to check in, greeting me with "Klassen" as I answered the phone. Those conversations meant a lot. He gave sound advice and was always a good listener. He wanted to see the strong Whitefish band tradition carry on. My students and I are forever in his debt.
John's legacy will live on in the band program he built, the many youth he helped shape into adults, and the meticulous pieces he crafted with his strong, steady hands. John, you are admired and will be missed by many. Sue, Amy and Lisa, you are in our prayers.
Mr. Klassen handed over his life's work much like a father might hand over the keys to a classic car that shined with years of pride and care. I remember sitting on his deck as he described each student on the Varsity Band roster, showing how much he knew and cared for each of them. For a long time after that he would call to check in, greeting me with "Klassen" as I answered the phone. Those conversations meant a lot. He gave sound advice and was always a good listener. He wanted to see the strong Whitefish band tradition carry on. My students and I are forever in his debt.
John's legacy will live on in the band program he built, the many youth he helped shape into adults, and the meticulous pieces he crafted with his strong, steady hands. John, you are admired and will be missed by many. Sue, Amy and Lisa, you are in our prayers.
Message from darcy simonson
August 7, 2016 6:55 PM
Dear Susan, I'm saddened by the news of John's passing. In the short time we spent together at Perch Lake it seemed I was not only blessed to be entrusted with his and your sweet little haven in the woods, I was especially blessed with a new friend who I quickly came to cherish. He was and still is a gift. PLease note that the invitation I extended to John for you and him to spend time at Perch still stands. Peace to you and your daughters. Darcy
Message from Lisa Jane
August 7, 2016 9:53 AM
Mr. Klassen was my favorite teacher. He made school a fun place for me to come to. I had the honor of being taught by him in middle school and high school. My older siblings were taught by him too. I still remember hand delivering my instrument choice to his house (he was my neighbor). He was so patient with me. He will be missed. - Lisa Jane Bruce
Message from nadia
August 6, 2016 2:17 PM
Susan, I am so deeply sad and sorry for your loss; and so happy that John had you to experience the richness of life with. My love and thoughts are with you and the girls constantly. Thank you for letting me share these memories and departing words with your husband:
Mr. Klassen,
As if playing the French horn with less than mediocrity was true talent, or stacking hay bales was a superhuman power, or tracking down missing cows in your woods was a special knack that only I had; as if there was nobody in the world you would rather have shared a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a cold beer with in the shade on your deck... You made me feel so very important, when in fact you were the remarkable one, a rare gem, and I just one of the many very, very lucky people that got to benefit from your kindness.
It's hard to believe that I will never again hear the sound of your voice as I have on my answering machine numerous times over the years - requesting my 'muscles' to help with this, that or the other ranch job. I will miss everything about you, Mr. Klassen, but what I think I will wish for the most is this ... the mischievous, humble, humorous, perfectly crafted way in which, in six seconds with my ear to the phone, you could always bring me a chuckle.
So in your style, I leave you this final message.
'Klassen. 'Muscles' here. Meant to tell ya how much you mean to me. Thanks for caring... Well, t'was fun. Call back someday.'
Mr. Klassen,
As if playing the French horn with less than mediocrity was true talent, or stacking hay bales was a superhuman power, or tracking down missing cows in your woods was a special knack that only I had; as if there was nobody in the world you would rather have shared a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a cold beer with in the shade on your deck... You made me feel so very important, when in fact you were the remarkable one, a rare gem, and I just one of the many very, very lucky people that got to benefit from your kindness.
It's hard to believe that I will never again hear the sound of your voice as I have on my answering machine numerous times over the years - requesting my 'muscles' to help with this, that or the other ranch job. I will miss everything about you, Mr. Klassen, but what I think I will wish for the most is this ... the mischievous, humble, humorous, perfectly crafted way in which, in six seconds with my ear to the phone, you could always bring me a chuckle.
So in your style, I leave you this final message.
'Klassen. 'Muscles' here. Meant to tell ya how much you mean to me. Thanks for caring... Well, t'was fun. Call back someday.'
Message from Nadia Hebard
August 6, 2016 2:13 PM
Susan, I am so deeply sad and sorry for your loss; and so happy that John had you to experience the richness of life with. My love and thoughts are with you and the girls constantly. Thank you for letting me share these memories and departing words with your husband:
Mr. Klassen,
As if playing the French horn with less than mediocrity was true talent, or stacking hay bales was a superhuman power, or tracking down missing cows in your woods was a special knack that only I had; as if there was nobody in the world you would rather have shared a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a cold beer with in the shade on your deck... You made me feel so very important, when in fact you were the remarkable one, a rare gem, and I was just one of the many very, very lucky people that got to benefit from your kindness.
It's hard to believe that I will never again hear the sound of your voice as I have on my answering machine numerous times over the years - requesting my 'muscles' to help with this, that or the other ranch job. I will miss everything about you, Mr. Klassen, but what I think I will wish for the most is this ... the mischievous, humble, humorous, perfectly crafted way in which, in six seconds with my ear to the phone, you could always bring me a chuckle.
So in your style, I leave you this final message.
'Klassen. 'Muscles' here. Meant to tell ya how much you mean to me. Thanks for caring... Well, t'was fun. Call back someday.'
Mr. Klassen,
As if playing the French horn with less than mediocrity was true talent, or stacking hay bales was a superhuman power, or tracking down missing cows in your woods was a special knack that only I had; as if there was nobody in the world you would rather have shared a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a cold beer with in the shade on your deck... You made me feel so very important, when in fact you were the remarkable one, a rare gem, and I was just one of the many very, very lucky people that got to benefit from your kindness.
It's hard to believe that I will never again hear the sound of your voice as I have on my answering machine numerous times over the years - requesting my 'muscles' to help with this, that or the other ranch job. I will miss everything about you, Mr. Klassen, but what I think I will wish for the most is this ... the mischievous, humble, humorous, perfectly crafted way in which, in six seconds with my ear to the phone, you could always bring me a chuckle.
So in your style, I leave you this final message.
'Klassen. 'Muscles' here. Meant to tell ya how much you mean to me. Thanks for caring... Well, t'was fun. Call back someday.'
Message from Kaleen Knight
August 6, 2016 1:33 PM
Dear Sue, Amy, and Lisa,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you process through this difficult time of loss.
John played such a big part in our kid's lives, all 4 of them. Not only did he teach them to play their instruments, how to be part of the bands, but he challenged them to be the best they could be in so many ways. So many happy memories come to mind as I recall concerts, jazz band, pep band, and contests......John will be so missed, but never forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the students (and parents) he touched. May you find comfort and peace as the days move forward.
Kaleen and Steve Knight
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you process through this difficult time of loss.
John played such a big part in our kid's lives, all 4 of them. Not only did he teach them to play their instruments, how to be part of the bands, but he challenged them to be the best they could be in so many ways. So many happy memories come to mind as I recall concerts, jazz band, pep band, and contests......John will be so missed, but never forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the students (and parents) he touched. May you find comfort and peace as the days move forward.
Kaleen and Steve Knight
Message from Jenna
August 6, 2016 1:10 PM
I just met you, happened to be in the right place at the right time on horseback. I didn't get enough time to really get to know you, but was looking forward to horseback riding and learning the trails you showed me. Thank you, for the bright spot you created in my day and my life and for a friendship I know would have been fun. My heart goes out to your family. All my best.
Jenna Anderson
Jenna Anderson
Message from Kelli Parker
August 6, 2016 11:56 AM
Papa K and I started WHS the same year. Little did I know how much this man and mentor would change my life! I remember that he showed us a video of the fainting goats and how he wanted some so bad. All of the trips we took for festivals, Moosejaw being my favorite of course. I looked forward to band every single day, even the early mornings he picked me up for jazz band practice. The night I graduated from high school was one of sadness and joy combined.I knew I was ready to go forward but I didn't want to leave band.....kinda corny I know. Just know that you all are in my prayers and thoughts and love are heading your way.....
A candle was lit by jenifer clark
on August 6, 2016 10:12 AM
Thank you for helping 2 of my children thrive in live!! you will always be loved by our family!! Thank you for all the lives you touched. You were a gift from God for many people!! You will be missed!!
Thank you for helping 2 of my children thrive in live!! you will always be loved by our family!! Thank you for all the lives you touched. You were a gift from God for many people!! You will be missed!!
Message from Deb Simons
August 6, 2016 9:37 AM
My heartfelt condolences to you, Sue, Amy and Lisa. I never had the privilege of meeting John, but I see the legacy he left to Whitefish in teaching the value of playing a musical instrument...a legacy that shines through in every community performance WF students give. This legacy is a gift for the generations.
Message from Gayle MacLaren
August 6, 2016 9:24 AM
Being new to Whitefish and having a freshman sign up for band, I was requested to have a conference with "The Band" teacher. Fearing the worst, I found John Klassen to be the best!! He gave private lessons on his own time because "my ears need this"!! Many band trips later, John's humor, dedication, and patience were so very appreciated. Thank you, John, for a wonderful introduction to Whitefish and a sense of belonging to uprooted students. Speaking for my children, the "Band Geeks" will never forget you. May the canoe you are on now be water tight.
Condolences to Susan, Amy and Lisa.
Gayle MacLaren
Condolences to Susan, Amy and Lisa.
Gayle MacLaren
Message from John Lyman
August 6, 2016 8:12 AM
John Klassen first contacted me early on in his tenure at Whitefish Public Schools. He needed some work done on a few of the schools band instruments, but was somewhat leery of my ability. I soon put his mind at ease when he witnessed the quality of my work. After that he always contacted me when something needed attention. John and l shared a passion for big game hunting which resulted a several hunting trips, plus he always allowed me to hunt on his ranch. Rest in peace my friend! John B. Lyman, Whitefish, Mt.
Message from Sara Straka
August 6, 2016 12:00 AM
I was talking about you today and had no idea. I wish I would have stayed in better touch. Thank you for everything you did for me and hundreds of other students. I will always remember you with a smile. Thank you for your wit and inside jokes, your guidance, patience and support. You will be greatly missed Mr. K, your legacy will live on in all the lives you touched. Love, Sara
Message from Ginny Gist
August 5, 2016 7:13 PM
Praying for you Sue, Amy and Lisa. John's memory lives on in the lives of many of our High School kids. Both my children loved their time in band at the High School, and hold those band memories close to their hearts. Lots of good memories for me in attending all those concerts, too. He will be missed.
Message from Stephanie Johnson
August 5, 2016 5:52 PM
Susan I am so sorry for your loss. Papa K was a such an amazing man, and touched the lives of everyone he met. I will never forget his sly smile and the twinkle in his eyes. I will cherish the times I was able to spend with him; my favorite always being our trip to Missoula to see Alan Vizzutti and Doc Serversen. My prayers and thoughts are with you in these difficult times.
A candle was lit by Steven Klassen
on August 5, 2016 5:51 AM
My thoughts surround you Susan in this time of loss. John is not only my cousin but has been a wonderful friend. I will miss my visits with John at the ranch. Stay strong and walk on. I will especially think of John each time I paddle the beautiful canoe he made for me. Love to all of you cousin Steven
My thoughts surround you Susan in this time of loss. John is not only my cousin but has been a wonderful friend. I will miss my visits with John at the ranch. Stay strong and walk on. I will especially think of John each time I paddle the beautiful canoe he made for me. Love to all of you cousin Steven
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