Oklee - Arthur Klasen, 80, died on Tuesday, January 20, 1998 at First Care Hospital in Fosston.
Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, January 24 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Oklee with Father Joe Richards officiating. Marian Marquis was the organist. Casketbearers were Billy Klasen, Johnny Klasen, Freddy Klasen, Daniel Klasen, Henry Klasen and Greg Delaney. Honorary Casketbearers were Ted Hamm, Einar Kvasager, Tom Radniecki, Sidney Bergeron, Bob Doherty and Joe Willett. Burial was held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery in Oklee with military honors afforded by the VFW of Trail and Gully and the American Legion of Gonvick. The Petterson Funeral Home of Red Lake Falls was in charge of the arrangements.
Art Klasen was born on November 28, 1917 at Oklee, the son of John and Mary (Toenies) Klasen. He was raised and attended school in Oklee. He entered the U.S. Army and served in Normandy, northern France, and Central Europe from July 7, 1942 until being discharged on November 15, 1945. Art returned to Oklee where he farmed, logged and was a heavy equipment operator. He retired in 1981.
Art enjoyed auction sales, hunting, fishing and farming. He was a member of the VFW in Trail and the American Legion in Gonvick for 20 years.
He is survived by his companion and special friend, Louise Klasen of Oklee; four sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.
Art was preceded in death by his parents; and seven brothers, Leo, Andy, Joe, Pete, Bill and two infants.