John Klassen, born January 9, 1928, passed away in Brockville on November 21, 2015.

Predeceased by his beloved spouse Joan (Sept. 5, 2015). Survived by his children, Elizabeth (Richard), Ronald, Moss (Dale) and Charles and grandchildren, Jocelyn, Nicholas, Caitlin, Colin, Owen and Hayley. Also survived by his brother Paul and sister Trudy.

He earned a Phd from the University of Wisconsin in chemical engineering in 1952. Prior to this he received an MSc (Eng) and BSc (Eng) from Queen’s University, Kingston.

He spent most of his working life at Dupont Canada (Maitland, Kingston and Sarnia) where he served in senior management roles. His working life was bracketed by stints of teaching at Queen’s University in the engineering department.

John loved the outdoors, in particular Charleston Lake and the St. Lawrence River. He spent many weekends and holidays on extended hikes with his children and friends and boating and canoeing.

He was an aficionado of classical music and had an extensive music collection. He was a world traveller and raconteur. John loved to laugh. He had a collection of trademark phrases, a favourite being “So be it.” He loved words, enjoyed solving puzzles and playing Scrabble.

John was a civic-minded individual who was instrumental in the YM/YWCA building campaign, active in his church and a frequent canvassing captain for the Canadian Cancer Society.

He recently told his children that he had lived a long and happy life.

A funeral service will be held at St. Lawrence Anglican Church, 80 Pine St., Brockville on Thursday, November 26, 2015, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a gathering in the church hall. Donations in memory of John can be made to the Brockville General Hospital, Garden Street campus. Arrangements have been entrusted to Irvine Funeral Home, 4 James Street East, Brockville. Condolences and donations can be made online at www.irvinememorial.com.