Paul Ervin Classen. a devoted husband, loving father. and proud grandfather, passed away on February 9. 2025. in Kingwood. Texas, at the age of 93. Born on December 5th, 1931. in Spencer. Nebraska. Paul was the fourth of eight children born to Jacob and Margaret (Ward) Classen. He grew up on the Nebraska plains, attending District 27 country school before graduating from Spencer High School in 1949.

In 1950, Paul answered the call to serve his country. joining the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Germany. where he worked as an airplane mechanic. a skill he carried throughout his life.

Before his deployment, he met and later married the love of his life Elizabeth Carr on January 4th, 1953. Together, they built a life filled with love. hard work and unwavering devotion to family. They were blessed with three children, Paula, Jeff, and David. six grandchildren, and seven great-granddaughters.

In 1957. Paul and Elizabeth made Texas their home. settling in Lake Jackson, where they would remain for nearly seven decades. Paul dedicated 30 years to his career as a heavy equipment mechanic with Monical & Powell. Later. he partnered with his son in the auto parts business, a venture that combined his mechanical expertise with his entrepreneurial spirt.

Following his retirement. Paul found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He cherished family gatherings. He had a passion for woodworking. He found peace in watching and feeding the birds and squirrels that visited his yard. An avid car tinkerer, he was always happy to get under the hood and figure things out. He became a grill master and loved to try new dishes. When it came to friendly competition. Paul was a fierce and enthusiastic UNO card game player, always ready to deal the next

round with a grin. Paul's game of choice at the retirement community was bingo where his enthusiasm lit up the room Paul was a man of quiet strength. known for his sharp mind, steady hands, and generous heart. He had a deep love for his family, always ready with a story. a helping hand, or a twinkle in his eye. His legacy of hard work. strength, and kindness to those he loved will live on through the generations he leaves behind.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents and siblings - James. Robert. Martha Pfeifer, Marian Luber and Marcelline Garrett: son. Jeff: son-in-law, Gerald Safarik.