Fredrick James "Fred" Klasen

Fredrick Klasen ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Cease Family Funeral Home - Bemidji on Mar. 8, 2026.Fredrick James Klasen, age 81, passed away peacefully on March 5th, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 8th, 1945, to Andrew and Josephine (Daoust) Klasen, Fred's life was shaped by faith, hard work, and a deep devotion to the people he loved.Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Clearbrook, Minnesota with the Reverend Michael Wright officiating. A gathering of friends and family will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at the Silver Creek Cemetery at Clearbrook, Minnesota. The Cease Family Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangement.Fred was baptized and confirmed at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and spent his early years on the Klasen family farm in Oklee, Minnesota. At the age of 16, he went to live with Lyle Mandt, working on the chicken farm, an experience that strengthened his work ethic and independence. His early adulthood took him to Grand Forks, where he worked at Ryan Potato and met Rita Dewhurst. They married in 1965 and welcomed two children, Christine (Blayne) Twamley and Kenneth Delaney. The family later moved to the Iron Range, where Fred worked alongside his uncle, George Taylor, in wood processing, and eventually to Crookston, where he drove semi for Roseau Diesel and NorthStar Trucking. Fred and Rita divorced in 1970.Returning home to Oklee, Fred lived with his brother and sister in law, Danny and Kathy Klasen. It was there he met Kathryn Rud, a close friend of Kathy's and the woman who would become the love of his life. Fred and Kathryn were married on December 30th, 1972, making their home in Clearbrook, Minnesota. Together they welcomed two daughters, April (Eric) Wilde and Paula (Keith) Christianson. In 1972, Fred joined Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Clearbrook, where he was baptized and embraced as a member of the congregation.Fred began what would become a 37 year career with Northern Pipeline, traveling across the country to states such as Texas, Georgia, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and throughout Minnesota. During the winter off season, he continued to work, driving semi for Wentworth Trucking and hauling cars across the United States. Even after retiring from Northern Pipeline in 2013, Fred never slowed down, hauling lumber for Amish friends and neighbors, volunteering with Meals on Wheels, and helping at the local food shelf.Fred lived life with a full heart and an open door. He loved spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, visiting with anyone who crossed his path, and traveling with Kathryn, especially their memorable trips to Hawaii and Alaska. He was proud of his family and loved being around people. He'd call at any hour just to say hello, with his joking sense of humor. He baked banana bread and bread pudding to share with friends and family, enjoyed lunches with his friends, and stayed connected with people across the country, calling old friends just to check in.Above all, Fred cherished his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He had a special bond with each of them, celebrating their milestones, cheering them on, and filling their lives with warmth, humor, and unconditional love.Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathryn Klasen; his parents, Andrew and Josie Klasen; and many close family members and friends who welcomed him home.He is survived by his children: Christine (Blayne) Twamley, Kenneth, Kellie and Alissa Delaney, April (Eric) Wilde, and Paula (Keith) Christianson; his brothers John (Jane) Klasen, Daniel (Kathy) Klasen, and Henry (Terry) Klasen; his sisters Betty (Ivan) Sjulstad and Barbara (Lorn) Arveson; his grandchildren Hayden and Alex Wilde, Kendra and Brennen Christianson, Kayla (Chad) Grove, Brandi (Henry) Chennaux, Josh (Katie) Twamley, and Katie (Nick) Norby, Sterling Skye, Zandie (Matt) Tjossem; and many great grandchildren who will carry his spirit forward.Fred's life was a testament to generosity, loyalty, and the joy of simple moments shared with the people he loved. His laughter, his stories, and his steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered."Your love lives on in every heart you touched."In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Clearbrook, MN.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.