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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
KLASSEN, Sheila (née PAUL) - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sheila Klassen, who passed away peacefully at the Dartmouth General Hospital on June 22, 2026, at the age of 87.
We take great comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her beloved husband, Philipp Klassen; her parents, George and Marion Paul; and her sister, Shirley.
Sheila will be lovingly remembered by her children, Paul (Jen) and Wendy; her grandchildren, Travis and Logan (Maddie); her step-grandchildren, Liam, Connor, Kaleigh, and Sophie; and her great-grandchildren, Kiley, Ava, and Beau, whom she absolutely adored.
Sheila was born in Listowel, Ontario, and raised in Acton. She had a special talent for the violin, which brought her recognition and joy during her younger years. She carried her passion for music throughout her life, and it remained an important part of who she was.
As a young woman, Sheila enrolled in the Royal Canadian Navy — Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service, where she formed many lifelong friendships. The Navy also brought her the most treasured gift of her life: her husband, Phil. The two quickly became inseparable and built a love that lasted more than half a century, with their marriage and family standing as a testament to their enduring bond.
Sheila and Phil settled in Lake Echo, where they quickly became valued members of the community. Together, they helped with the establishment of the Rec Centre, were involved with the Orenda Canoe Club, and dedicated their time to the Lions and Lioness service clubs. Sheila also proudly served on the Eastern Shore District School Board.
During their retirement years, Sheila and Phil travelled extensively, spending their winters in Hawaii and Florida. Their love of the tropics and escaping the cold and snow brought them immense happiness, and they shared that warmth and joy with their children and grandchildren whenever they could.
After the passing of her beloved Phil, Sheila cherished her time with Wendy, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren. She treasured watching them grow and sharing the wisdom, stories, and lessons she had gathered throughout her life. She enjoyed cheering on her beloved Toronto Blue Jays and New England Patriots, and she never missed the opportunity to settle in for a good curling marathon.
Sheila will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her kindness, love, and unwavering devotion to her family will remain a lasting legacy.
Visitation will be held at A.L. Mattatall Funeral Home, 217 Portland Street, Dartmouth, on Saturday July 11th at 12pm, the funeral service will begin at 2:00pm with a reception to follow. (A. L. Mattatall Funeral Home)
* Webmaster's note: Sheila's obituary states she joined the WRCNS, however, the WRCNS disbanded in Aug 1946. The RCN(R) began recruiting women in 1950 and the RCN in 1953 - which means Sheila joined either the RCN or the RCN(R) as a Wren.
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