Norman Konstantin Claassen, age 69, passed away on March 18, 2026. He was born on January 14, 1957, in Frankfurt, Germany, to Warren D. Claassen (deceased) and Waltraud Munyan.
Norman was recently united in marriage to his beloved wife, Eydie Angel Forte, on June 25, 2025. Together they made their home in Dupont, Washington, where they had just begun building a new life rooted in faith, love, and shared purpose. Norman was deeply proud of Eydie and her recent accomplishment as a first-time author with the release of her book, The Dark Side of Beauty. He had just begun his second reading at the time of his passing, having remarked after his first, “It would have taken eight years of marriage to know everything I learned about you in that book.” His admiration and support for her inspired him to begin plans to write and publish a book of his own.
Though Norman never had children of his own, he joyfully embraced Eydie’s family as his own. He is survived by his stepsons, Thomas Stephens and Cristopher Stephens (Julie); grandsons Rasaan Stephens (Kaycie), Yisrael Stephens, Sean Stephens, and Trey McDaniel; granddaughters Maya Stephens and Sienna Robinson; great-grandsons Jahkobi Stephens and Arurelio Lowe; and great-granddaughter Amira Lowe.
A devout Christian, Norman lived a life of quiet ministry. He had a deep and abiding love for God and for people—especially those who felt overlooked, burdened, or without resources. Many recall that he would appear at just the right moment in times of difficulty, offering help, wisdom, or provision without fanfare. To some, he seemed like an answered prayer.
Professionally, Norman was a master electronic and electrical technician whose expertise was sought by organizations including the United States Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, National Geographic, the Washington State Department of Corrections, Safeco Field, and Key Arena. His accomplishments were built on a humble Associate of Technical Arts in Electronics from Centralia Community College. Known for his ability to solve complex problems others could not, Norman often created innovative solutions on the spot, freely sharing his work without seeking patents or recognition.
At the time of his passing, Norman served as a Firearms Instructor at Glacier Gun Club in Olympia, Washington, and was an NRA Certified Police Firearms Instructor. His training work supported organizations such as National Geographic, Combined Arms Collective Training Facility, War Fighter Focus, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, as well as training missions involving Special Forces, Marines, Army, Navy SEALs, and others.
Norman was also an accomplished athlete and outdoorsman. He held numerous Washington State, national, and world archery titles between 1988 and 1998 and served as a USA Olympic Archery Coach. As a fast draw competitor, he achieved a record-matching time of 1/200th of a second, tying with renowned marksman Bob Munden. He was an avid and conscientious bowhunter who carried a deep respect for the outdoors.
Beyond his professional and athletic accomplishments, Norman was a gifted musician who played guitar in several Christian bands throughout his life, including Ecclesia, Carpenter’s Apprentice, and Stratologeo. Music remained a lifelong passion, and he often spoke fondly of those years, reflecting that “we had a sound,” and occasionally expressed a desire to return to recording and performing.
Norman shared a lifelong friendship with David M. Masters, with whom he grew grew in the Lord with, attended Bible college, and co-founded Eternalight Studios in Centralia, Washington, in the 1980s. Their friendship spanned nearly five decades and was marked by shared faith, creative pursuits, and enduring mutual respect. Norman served as best man at David’s wedding, and David later returned that honor.
Those who knew Norman will remember his remarkable range of talents—his mastery of electronics, firearms, archery, and industrial electrical work—as well as his appreciation for fine guitars and his skill in games such as pool and darts. Yet above all, he will be remembered for his heart: his generosity, his faith, and his ability to meet people where they were, offering strength, compassion, and truth.
Norman’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of many. His legacy lives on in the countless individuals he helped, encouraged, and uplifted throughout his life.
Friends and family are invited to share their stories, memories, and reflections below, as we honor and remember the many lives Norman touched.
Norman’s Obituary: Mountain View Funeral Home