Alva M. “Booty” Klaassen, 78

January 28, 2018

Alva M. “Booty” Klaassen, 78, of Paradise, was called home to be with her savior Jesus Christ, January 28, 2018, surrounded by her family. Born at home in Staunton, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Clarence and Ina (Rankin) Strickler.
She worked for Skyline for many years before she fell ill in 2009. She was also known for driving the Amish community in and around Lancaster County. She will be remembered for her spitfire personality, her deeply rooted love for her family and her love of animals.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Kenneth Klaassen, with whom she was married for over 30 years; her children; Linda wife of Tom Ibach, of Wrightsville; Jake Griest husband of Lynne of Airville; and Sherry wife of Galen Derr of Pequea as well as her step children; Vickie wife of Jim Smith, of Ephrata, Debbie wife of Mike Egar, of Mountville, and Tracy Gilmore of Ephrata, David Klaassen of Japan, and her beloved puppy, Smokey. She is also survived by her brother Carl Strickler and loving grandchildren; John D. Hanna Jr., Candice M. (Henry) Riley, Barry Wilhelm, Randy Wilhelm, Rikki Straley, Britini (Tollinger) Whalen, Desiree Schelling, Amanda Griest, Joshua Griest, Keith Caldwell, Keri Caldwell, Kira Klaassen, Alicia Klaassen, Nathan Klaassen, Scott Smith, Ashley Smith, Andy Klaassen, Lauren Egar, Rachel Klaassen, Leah, Justin and Nicole; and a host of great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her eldest daughter, Connie L. Henry, and her sisters; Florence, Helen, Kay and Ruby as well as her furry companions, Tigger and Rusty.
The family cordially invites all to attend a memorial service to celebrate the beautiful life of Booty held on February 11, 2018 at New Providence Baptist Church, 2411 Beaver Valley Pike, Quarryville at 2PM.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that donations in Booty’s honor be sent to SPCA of Lancaster, 848 S Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603.