David C. Claassen, 51, of New Kensington, departed peacefully to Heaven surrounded by his

Nov 1, 1960 - April 5, 2012

loving family at home on Thursday, April 5, 2012, following an eight month heroic battle with pancreatic cancer.
He was born November 1, 1960 in New Kensington to George and the late Shirley Baumiller Claassen. He was a 1978 graduate of Valley High School, and graduated from West Virginia University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Mr. Claassen was a member of St. Margaret Mary’s Church of Lower Burrell. He was employed with PPG Industries for 25 years and his most recent position was Environmental Health and Safety Manager at Allison Park. He was an avid outdoorsman and bow hunter and won multiple national archery championships. His favorite times were the times that he spent with his wife and children. He enjoyed coaching his children in their sports and supporting them in all of their endeavors. He was an adoring and proud father and loyal and supportive husband. David was a kind, generous, and faith filled man. His quick wit and wonderful sense of humor made talking with him a joy. He was a friend to all and chose to see the good in everyone.

David was the loving and devoted husband and father to wife Kim Claassen for 25 years and children Alexis and Aaron Claassen. He is also survived by his brother Doug (Milly) Claassen, many nieces and nephews, and a special cousin Stacey Tritschler.

Viewing will be Monday from 2-4 & 7-9 PM in the ROSS G. WALKER FUNERAL HOME LTD., 217 Freeport Road, New Kensington (724-335-1234), where prayers of transfer will be held Tuesday at 9:30 AM followed by a Christian Funeral Mass at 10 AM in St. Mary Roman Catholic Church, 857 Kenneth Avenue, New Kensington with Msgr. Gaston as Celebrant. Burial will follow in Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell.