Katherine (Tina) Klassen, 93 passed away peacefully October 12, 2009 at Menno Home in Grunthal. Mom, better known as Granny, was born April 27, 1916 at Burwalde, MB. She accepted the Lord and was baptized upon confession of her faith June 9, 1938 in the Rosenbach Rudnerweider Church. Mom and Dad both grew up at Burwalde and were married in the schoolhouse May 8, 1943. She was predeceased by her husband, Jake C. and an infant daughter, Carol. Mom was also predeceased by Peter P. and Sarah Hoeppner, two sisters, four brothers, seven brothers-in-law, and four sisters-in-law. The Klassen family was as dear to Mom as her Hoeppner clan. One daughter, Pat (Gerald) and their family, two sisters, one brother-in-law, three sisters-in-law, many nieces and nephews and friends remember Mom. Mom loved school, and shone when she had a chance, later in life, to earn her Health Care Aide certification. For 18 years she served joyfully at Salem in Winkler. When Dad had a stroke in early spring, 1972, she just added his care at home to her full-time shifts at Salem. She retired April 1981, and Dad passed away September 12, 1982. On September 12, 1971, Mom and Dad finally gained a son when Gerald and I married. The Gerbrandts warmly welcomed both Dad and Granny. Gerald and Mom shared a special bond. Will DQ notice a drop in black cherry sundae sales? After retirement, Mom embraced many new opportunities. She took swimming lessons to overcome fear of water, loved playing slow-pitch, traveled, tended her colourful English-style garden, served with Ambassador Ladies, and was always ready to go camping. Burwalde Bunch Breakfasts were a highlight for her. Mom’s soups and roast beef, vareniky, and all her baking were superb. She loved trying new recipes and read widely. Quilting was her favourite of many activities at Winkler Senior Centre. Living at Lions Manor afforded many rich experiences. Nothing was as exciting to her as her growing role as Granny. As Mom’s health declined, Home Care workers in Winkler provided much-appreciated care. January, 2005, Mom moved to Menno Home in Grunthal. She said repeatedly, “If you can’t be in your own home, this is the best place to be.” Thank you, Dr. Ilchyna, Menno Home nursing and support staff, for your loving care. We are thankful for our rich legacy. Granny, we love you “a whole big bunch.” Gerald & Pat Gerbrandt; Chris, (Cheryl) Taran, Aiden Gerbrandt; Laura, (Bryan), Ciara, Cayden Funk; Ryan (Shanilie), Jacob, Riley Gerbrandt. Viewing 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach; Funeral 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 16, Evangelical Mennonite Mission Church, 600 Southview Drive, Winkler with viewing prior to service. Burial to follow at Rosenbach Cemetery. Memorial donations to Menno Home Foundation, Box 280, Grunthal, MB R0A 0R0 or Winkler Bible Camp, Box 2340, Winkler, MB R6W 4C1 are appreciated.