Marvin Joseph Classen

Marvin Joseph Classen, 85, of Humphrey, Nebraska, died Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Heritage of Bel Air in Norfolk, Nebraska.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, October 28 at 10:30 AM, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Humphrey, with Fr. Stan Schmit celebrating the Mass.  Interment with military honors will be in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Sunday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a Vigil Service at 7:00 PM, at St. Francis Catholic Church.  Visitation will continue on Monday from 9:30 AM until Mass time, also at the church.  In lieu of flowers, plants, stones, etc., memorials are suggested to the Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund, St. Francis Catholic Church, or Humphrey Fire & Rescue.

Marvin Joseph Classen, born on January 10, 1939, to Alfred and Carolyn (Wessel) Classen in Rock Island, Illinois, passed away October 24, 2024.  At just two months old, his family relocated to a farm in Humphrey, Nebraska, where Marvin would grow up and build a life rooted in agriculture, hard work, and dedication to his family and community.

Marvin attended grade school at a country school near the family farm, and later at Cornlea and St. Francis.  In the 9th grade he left school to help his father on the farm.  By the age of 18, Marvin began working for Robert Strump Construction, contributing to the development of local roads, including the highway from Humphrey to Leigh.  His career also spanned farming, raising hogs and cattle, working for Behlen Mfg, and later at Mark Noonan Equipment.  He had a deep passion for farming and especially enjoyed tending to the cattle, often spending peaceful moments at the feed bunks observing the herd.

On April 25, 1964, Marvin married the love of his life, Norma Jane “Janie” Sueper, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in rural Lindsay, Nebraska.  They lived northwest of Humphrey, where they raised six sons: Mike, Joe, Jim, Steve, Tom, and Tim.  Marvin and Janie’s legacy continued through their 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, who were a constant source of pride and joy.

A devout member of St. Francis catholic Church, Marvin served as both an usher and a member of the Parish Council.  He was active in his community, serving as past president of the Platte-Colfax Pork Producers, and as a proud member of the Army National Guard from 1957 to 1963.  Marvin’s commitment to his country was recognized when he was awarded the Quilt of Valor on November 11, 2021.  His family was also honored with the farm Family of the Year award.  In 2015, Marvin contributed to the Nebraska State Historical Society’s Oral History Project, sharing his memories and experiences of rural farm life, now preserved in the archives as a valuable testament to his era.

Marvin was an avid card player and enjoyed fishing, particularly during his yearly trips to Minnesota.  In later years, he and Janie spent the winters in Mesa, Arizona.  They shared a love for travel, with trips to Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico among their most cherished adventures together.

Marvin’s life was defined by his strong work ethic, deep love for his family, and commitment to his community.  He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and warmth that will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Marvin is survived by:
Spouse – Janie Classen of Humphrey, NE
Sons - Mike (Sandy) of Humphrey, NE; Joe (Lori) of Humphrey, NE; Jim (Lisa) of Humphrey, NE; Steve (Lori) of Pleasant Dale, NE; Tom (Megan) of Lincoln, NE; Tim (Stacy) of Seward, NE
Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren – Derek (Aysha) & Ryker; Trent (Brenna) & Rozlyn, Rawlings, and Fallyn; Nathan (Renee) & Kendra, Paige, and Colton; Travis (Jordan) & Hattie; Mikaela (Brandon); Grant; Bryce; Carter; Tanner; Jacob; Nic; Kaid; Sutton; Morgan; Brooklyn; Baily; and Tavien
Brothers - Alan (Marge) Classen, Dick (Sally) Classen, Dave (Vicki) Classen, Jerry (Mary Ann) Classen, and Terry (Tina) Classen
Sister - Carolyn (Dick) Wemhoff
Sisters-in-law - Mary Beth (Paul) Classen, Marlene (Ralph) Weeder, Doris (Dick) Miller, Eileen (Alan) Widhalm, Geri (Lonnie) Mostek, Bunny (Terry) Priester, Evelyn (Dick) Hemmer, Diane (Rick) Larson, and Cathy (Don) Gronenthal,
Brothers-in-law - Gene (Shirley) Sueper and Mel (Karen) Sueper
Numerous nieces and nephews
 

Marvin was preceded in death by:
Parents – Alfred and Carolyn Classen
Grandson – Austin Steven Classen
Great Grandson – Lux Classen
Brother – Ronald Classen
Sisters – Lavonne (Gene) Ramaekers and Mary (Paul) LaPuzza
Parents-in-law – Edward and Marjorie Sueper
Brothers-in-law – Dick (Audrey) Sueper and Larry (Martha) Sueper

In lieu of flowers, plants, stones, etc., memorials are suggested to the Austin Steven Classen Scholarship Fund, St. Francis Catholic Church, or Humphrey Fire & Rescue.

Duesman Funeral Chapel

402 Main Street   PO Box 583

 Humphrey, NE  68642

402-923-1212     Fax: 402-606-4801

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