Robert (Bob) Ernest Klassen
May 5, 1959-July 31, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Ernest Klassen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin and friend. Bob who resided in Sherwood Park, AB, passed away on July 31, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife Elaine, his children; son Matthew (Ella) and daughter Paulina; and his cherished grandchildren , Oliver and Arabella who affectionately knew him as Opa. He is predeceased by his sister Colleen his father Ernie (Jakob) and his mother Iris.
Born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Bob’s early years were marked by family, friends and hard work. He operated Superior Cartage, a trucking company, alongside his father and other family members. In the late 1980’s , Bob and his family relocated to Sherwood Park, where he became the terminal manager for Westcan Bulk Transport (KAG), a role he dedicated over 20 years to.
Upon early retirement, Bob and Elaine moved to Kelowna, enjoyed the beauty of the Okanagan Valley and formed new friendships. His retirement marked the beginning of his battle with cancer, which prompted a return to Alberta to be closer to his his family whom he loved immensely.
Bob had a passion for life that extended beyond his professional achievements. He loved sports, played hockey, and enjoyed music from the 70’s. He was known for telling jokes and stories that had people holding their bellies. He had a deep appreciation for old cars, history and anything that supported the welfare of children and animals.
The family would like to thank the Doctors, Nurses and Caregivers in both Kelowna and Edmonton Cancer Clinics as well as the Devon Hospital and Norwood Hospice for the their enduring work and care.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Cross Cancer Institute or an animal rescue charity of your choice in Bob’s name.
My sincere condolence’s to Bob’s family. Bob was a great little cousin and I have fond memories of him and Colleen when they were little. RIP Bob.
Shirley and family
My deepest condolences on the passing of Bob. I worked with Bob at Omega/West Mobile and shared many great conversations with him and he became a dear friend. I admired his kindness, professionalism, fairness, and empathy towards everyone he interacted with. I looked up to him professionally and his character as a co-worker. He truly was a great man who loved his family and friends. Bob will be greatly missed but I know he is now at peace with his Lord and Saviour.
The “Omega Team” he had joined here in Kelowna will surely miss him. He brought a great up-beat, can-do attitude to our operation on a daily basis, even with an early diagnosis. Great guy!
So sorry for your loss. Bob was such a great man. I met Bob at when he worked for West Crystal in Kelowna, I would call out loud, “Bobby”! and he would always holler back “Mark”! He always told such great stories and jokes. He was always so accommodating when I would bring him stuff to ship. He was also a wonderful brother in the Lord, I will see you again in Heaven Bobby!
I worked for Bob for when I moved to Alberta back in 1997 and later so did my father. Bob was a good boss and was always personable and was a good leader. Sorry for your loss.
Dear Elaine, Paulina and Matt:
Bob was a pretty funny guy. I first met Bob at a company supper where he entertained a large crowd with his imitations of our boss Paul while sitting right beside him! Bob was an outstanding Terminal Manager and had the respect of his employees. I was privileged to have some heart to heart chats with him over the last few days he was with us, and he still had that remarkable sense of humor. Not only that but he found it in his heart to impart words of wisdom around not wasting the time we have on this earth. I will miss him.
Dear Elaine, Paulina,and Mathew, Brian and I are so very sad to hear about Bob’s passing. I have fond memories of the Klassen family where they were neighbours to the Greschuks. Every time mamma Greshchuk made perogies, nalysnyky, and cabbage rolls there was always a small roaster that went over to Bob and his family. The Klassen family were so appreciative. Bob’s favourite was always the nalysnyky. I remember Bob as his father’s son and the business skills he inherited from his father. He was good provider to his family and will be fondly remembered by family, friends, and coworkers. May he rest in peace. Vichnaya Pamyat.
With all our love
David Kolot and Brian Lunger
Sorry to the whole family on the loss of Bob. He was a wonderful person and the best boss a person could have. I learned so much from him over the years. He will truly be missed.
Dear Elaine,
I can’t express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. Bob was not just a kind man but a friend to all. His absence will be profoundly felt. One memory that always brings a smile to my face is when Bob took us on that unforgettable drive to the wineries in Kelowna. I remember how he patiently entertained little Kairav while we enjoyed tasting wines, and by the end of the day, we were all in stitches with laughter. Kairav wouldn’t stop talking about Bob’s red truck for years after that.
Bob fought so hard for so long, and his passing feels incredibly unfair. But I know he’s found peace now, and his warmth and spirit will live on in the memories we hold dear. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and in my heart during this difficult time.
Sending you all my love and deepest condolences,
I first met Bob 20 years ago, I was honored to call Bob a friend and later with the marriage of Matt and Ella, family. You will be truly missed.
He will be missed by everyone that knew him, a lovely man. X
I am so very sorry for your loss. Bob was a wonderful man whom I held in the highest regard. He will be deeply missed.
Grateful for his humour, thankful for his candor, inspired for his collegiality, valued for his comradery. Thoughtful of his life, family, and friends.
You’ll be missed buddy. We have lots of good times over the years in our younger days right through grade school plan football together and City Park.
Elaine, Matthew and Paulina, I am saddened to hear about Bob’s passing. We have many many fond memories of him in the soccer days.
He truly was an amazing man. And I am honored to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
So Sorry for your loss. Bob will truly be missed by all