Lynden R. Classen

Lynden R. Classen, 63, of Macon, MS passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at UMMC, Jackson, MS. A funeral service is planned for Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at South Haven Mennonite Church, Macon, MS. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be at the church, Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. Cockrell Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.

Lynden Ralph Classen was born on September 27, 1962, at DeRidder, Louisiana, to Leo and Margaret Giesbrecht Classen. He peacefully passed away in the late afternoon of August 31, 2026, surrounded by his family. Death was due to injuries received in a tragic accident.

His early childhood years were spent in Deridder, and moved with his family to Macon, MS, when he was five years old. He was the middle son in a family of 5 boys. He completed his elementary education at South Haven Mennonite School. Lynden accepted God’s call and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite on February 24, 1974, by his father, Minister Leo Classen. On November 30, 1986, he married his life’s companion, Treva Koehn. They were looking forward to and planning their 40th anniversary trip.

Giving time at the unit in Roundup, Montana, was a highlight of his youth life. Lifelong friendships were formed there which resulted in special memories. He worked as a farm hand for his Uncle Arnold, built trailers and was employed at the fish plant. His fish farm kept him busy, and the tree removal business created friendships in the community. 

He was passionate about his hobbies, such as arrowheads, coin collecting, estate sales, and many others. Dad’s puns, pet peeves, and dry humor kept us smiling. Food was a highlight in his life, often having restaurant recommendations for anyone who would listen. He would selflessly lend a hand to projects for others.

 Two daughters were born into their home. Later, two boys and a girl from Ukraine joined the family. Dad poured his whole heart into his family, providing love and security. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he looked forward to watching them grow up.

In the hours after the accident God gave us a special gift we will forever treasure. Dad expressed his love to his family and left a clear testimony of God’s grace and forgiveness. 

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Treva, five children: Natalie and Jay Koehn, Brooksville, Mississippi; JuliAnne and Kristopher Gearig, Macon, Mississippi; Marshall and Brianna, Hutchinson, Kansas; Grant and Anastasia of the home. Eight grandchildren: Mason, Amaya, Keela, and Miles Koehn; Slater and Hayes Gearig; Waylon and Oakley Classen. Four brothers, Gerald and Elaine, Randy and Ruby, Wesley and Jeanette, Russell and Michelle. Sisters-in-law Kathy Schmidt; Joanna and Shane Koehn; Brother-in-law Paul and Tanya Koehn; and a host of nieces and nephews.

His parents, parents-in-law, and brother-in-law preceded him in death.