Celebrating Walter Claassen


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continue to grow your community for generations to come.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2019
10A – 1P
301 N MAIN, SUITE 200
NEWTON, KS 67114


Walter Claassen

Recently Walter’s daughter met with Angie Tatro, CKCF Executive Director, she shared the pride Walt had for the Newton Community. It was always clear to her that he wanted to make a difference not only for his own family but for others as well.

In 2006 Walter established 3 funds with the Foundation:

In memory of his daughter Susan he established:

  • Susan Claassen Endowment for the benefit of  the Hesston Intergenerational Child Dev Center Inc. Helping Children in our area.
  • Susan Claassen Nursing Scholarship for the benefit of nursing students at Hesston College. Promoting higher education for a caring profession.

In memory of his wife Helen he established:

  • Helen E. Claassen Endowment for the benefit of the Newton Library. A desire for a facility and resources that pace with broad access to knowledge.

Because of Walter’s vision for investing in meaningful causes through establishing endowments, nearly a $250,000 in charitable grants have been distributed to the 3 entities identified above since 2006. While these funds also maintain a collective balance of half a million in assets.

The true magic is these charitable causes will receive gifts in memory of Susan and Helen in perpetuity. We are delighted to further recognize the legacy Walter Claassen left through the establishment of these heartfelt gifts.

For more information on the life of Walter Claassen, CLICK HERE!