Roland Claassen

Roland Leonard Claassen was born at home on October 6, 1926 to Leonard and Helen Claassen.  He died on May 8, 2018.  Rol’s 91 years were all spent in Newton.  At age 15, he began dating Donnis LaGree.  They were married on June 11, 1950 for 54 years until her death in March, 2004.  He attended Newton Schools through the 11^th grade.

Rol’s business endeavors included a partnership with his father Leonard and brother Richard in Claassen Oil Company (a Phillips 66 Distributorship) and Claassen Lumber Company which became Claassen Hardware and Lumber, a family owned business for 64 years.

After closing the lumber yard, he maintained an office at Cedar Village until 2 weeks before his death.

Rol was a member of First Methodist Church where he was active in the choir and various committees.

He is survived by his 2 sons Darrel and his wife LaRita, and Dan and his wife Anna.  He was blessed with 5 grandchildren, Brittany, Marisa, Taylor, Paige, and Sam and 5 great grandchildren, Stella, Maverick, Mack, Kinley, and Beckham.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Donnis, and his brother Richard.

Viewing and visitation will be from 5-9 at Petersen Funeral Home with the family present from 6:30-8:00.

On Saturday, May 12, 10 AM,  a graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in  Newton followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church.

Memorial contributions may be given to TMS Global (The Mission Society) in care of Peterson Funeral Home, 215 North Main, Newton.