Donald D. Klassen, fondly known as Don, passed away on February 19, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born to Jacob and Marie Klassen, in Shafter, California. Don was the youngest of six children. After graduating from Shafter High School in 1955, he dabbled with a few different occupations until finding his lifelong passion in carpentry, which led him to a lifelong career in Klassen & Sons Construction. He left his imprint in homes and businesses locally in the Bakersfield area.

Don met and married the love of his life, LaVonne Craft, in 1958, in a simple ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada. They shared three children Randy, Julie, and Ronnie, whom he loved dearly and was so proud of. The family reminisces on all the adventures they shared from family vacations in their Winnebago, Go Kart races, BMX races, and so many more adventures.

Don leaves behind a legacy of precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was often heard bragging about all of his grandchildren and their accomplishments. He found so much joy in being a great-grandfather and would beam in their presence.

Don was often known to have a rough and tough exterior, but once people got to know him, they would soon realize he was a soft teddy bear. He had an ornery and stubborn personality that loved to get a reaction out of those around him. Wherever he went, he was sure to turn an acquaintance into a friend. Don was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who was in need. For his family, he was a true patriarch to the very end.

Don's passions later in life expanded to the love of motor sports building his beloved "yellow car," a 1947 Plymouth Business Coupe, and spending countless hours working with his nephew Bobby Klassen on the Bonneville race car at the hanger. The relationships he built with others will have an impact for a lifetime. For many, he became an honorary father and grandfather.

Don's most special moments were spent caring for his wife LaVonne. For 65 years, they created a simple yet full life. They enjoyed cruising down Chester, running errands around town, breakfasts at the Westchester Bowl, and being with their family. He often expressed a love for her delicious meals and took delight in her learning the art of Kielke making.

He is preceded in death by his parents Jacob and Marie, his siblings: Jo, Bob, Chuck, Jim, and Helen, and his son-in-law Jon Greemore (or whom he would refer to as his "Jonny Boy").

Survivors include the love of his life, LaVonne, son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Marcia Klassen, daughter Julie Greemore, and son and daughter-in-law, Ron and Susie Klassen. Grandchildren Erik and Michelle Klassen, Kim and Evan Morales, Jill and Mitch Pedrow, Megan Klassen, Zoe Klassen, Jason and Katie Walker, Allie and Chris Snider. Great-grandchildren Avery, Sophia, and Dominic Morales, Ember and Ella Pedrow, Noah, Grant, and Carter Walker.