Kenneth Klassen (June 29, 1945 - December 05, 2023)

In loving memory of
Kenneth Klassen
  • June 29, 1945
  • -
  • December 05, 2023

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Obituary

Kenneth Lee Klassen, 78, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2023.

Ken is survived by his wife and best friend of 48 years, Teddy. He is also survived by daughter, Susan, son-in-law Dave, all-around best grandson Felix (age 9), brother Jack Klassen (Myrna), and nephews Max and Keith Klassen.

Ken was born and raised in San Francisco. He graduated from Kent State University with a master’s degree in inorganic chemistry and worked as a research chemist for over 30 years at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, NY, where he met Teddy.

Ken was a kind and intelligent man with a big heart and a sharp sense of humor. His lifelong hobbies included sailing, golfing, woodworking, and appreciating fine California wines.

Ken will be deeply missed by his friends and family. A celebration of Ken’s life will be held in January 2024. In lieu of flowers, kindly donate to Rock of Ages Lutheran Church, PO Box 1149, Wildwood, FL 34785.  Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449.  Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.


Tribute Wall

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  1. Teddy Klassen says:
    04 Dec 2025
    December 5th, 2025 - Ken, it doesn't seem possible that you've been gone for 2 years. At times, it seems like it just happened. I think about you every day. I talk to you everyday. I miss you everyday. I came across a French phrase - "tu me manques" . It means "you are missing from me". What a perfect way to express the loss I feel.

    I hope that somehow you know how very much I love and miss you.

    Forever yours, Teddy.

  2. Teddy Klassen says:
    28 Jul 2025
    July 30th, 2025 - Ken, as I sit at your desk, I'm looking at a photo of us taken 50 years ago when we said "I do" and made the promise of a lifetime with each other. And now, 50 years later, even though you aren't here with me to celebrate, I want you to know that my heart still says "I do" and it always will.

    Here's to 50 years of us!! Happy Anniversary Ken. I love you.
    Teddy

  3. Teddy Klassen says:
    26 Jun 2025
    June 29th - Happy 80th Birthday Ken! On your birthday, I'm remembering all the ways you and your love made me happy. You were my rock, my best friend and partner. I'm so grateful that life led me to you.

    All my love forever and ever,
    Teddy

  4. Teddy Klassen says:
    05 Dec 2024
    Ken - it's hard to believe that you've been gone a year. At the same time it feels like it happened yesterday. I miss you being here - your touch, smile, humor, patience and your voice of reason when I get "crazy". I've learned a lot in the past year. You would be happy to know that you taught me well. I think of you everyday and sometimes ask myself - what would Ken do?

    There aren't enough words for me to tell you how much I love you and the life we shared. But, my love for you is everlasting.

    Forever yours,
    Teddy

  5. Teddy Klassen says:
    30 Jul 2024
    49 years ago today I married my best friend and began the best part of my life. I remember that day like it was today. Over those years we shared a lot of "highs" and some "lows" and a lot in between. Through it all our love grew and matured. I will love you into eternity.

    Happy Anniversary Ken.

    All my love, Teddy

  6. Teddy Klassen says:
    29 Jun 2024
    Happy 79th Birthday! I miss you terribly and love you forever.
    Teddy

  7. Donna and Jim Brown lit a candle:
    27 Jan 2024
    Lit since January 27, 2024 at 1:57:51 AM

  8. Ron Anderson says:
    08 Dec 2023
    Kenny and I have known each other since we were 4 years old going to Sunday School in San Francisco. We went thru school together, graduated high school together, and then went our separate ways...though always keeping in touch. His humor (and instant mind when using it) will always be in my mind & heart - to this day I still find myself laughing at things he said way back when we were both "young and callow fellows". He was my life-long friend and my life was enriched by having Ken in it. So long, dear Pal - see you in the "next place".

  9. Jeff and Darlene Miller says:
    07 Dec 2023
    What a wonderful picture of Ken. That's the soft-spoken good friend we remember so well. Ken and I became friends at Kodak and Darlene and I were so happy when he and Teddy decided to move down to The Villages. We treasure times spent with both Ken and Teddy and will miss his quiet spirit and humor. We feel blessed that he was a special part of our lives.

  10. Mike, Sara, Jay, and Kaylee Sexstone lit a candle:
    07 Dec 2023
    Lit since December 7, 2023 at 12:32:24 AM

  11. Fred and Anne Lawrence lit a candle:
    07 Dec 2023
    Lit since December 7, 2023 at 12:40:54 AM

  12. Paula & Geoff Potts says:
    07 Dec 2023
    Ken "Our Friend" is not here but he is with us. His quiet demeanor was his trademark. Our frequent get togethers were always a treat and enlightening. We will never say goodbye to your loving spirit. P & G

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