Obituary of Constance Ann Klaasen

Constance Ann (Ferguson) Klaasen, "Connie", passed away on November 24, 2015 at the age of 83. She was born in Cedar Springs, Michigan on September 19, 1932 to the late Ardale and Hazel Ferguson. Connie attended Hope College in Holland, MI where she majored in English and later became a professor. It was there that she met the love of her life, Don Klaasen. They were married and spent 62 wonderful years together. They moved to Arizona in 1994 and enjoyed their retirement in Tucson. Connie spoke French fluently and loved all things French. She made numerous trips to France, her favorite place in the world. Connie was a master bridge player. She loved to sing and had a beautiful soprano voice. She enjoyed playing tennis and was an avid historian. Her greatest joys were her children and grandchildren and loved spending time with them all. Connie is survived by one son, Robert Klaasen (Candice) of Peoria, AZ; three daughters, Kathryn Burchess (Mark) of Elkton, MD, Hilarie Gianas (late, Peter) of Tucson, AZ and Cynthia Powell (Dave) of Lake Havasu City, AZ; and two sisters, Mary Alice Ritsema (Robert) of Holland, MI and Revell Rayne of Tucson, AZ. She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald F. Klaasen. A celebration of life will be held in Holland, MI at a later date. The family requests that donations be made to Hospice of Havasu in Connie's name. Services were placed in the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory. Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.