Husband and Dad of 4 Dies After Getting Trapped Inside Grain Bin While Moving Soybeans

A Kansas farming community is mourning the tragic loss of a 37-year-old father of four after a devastating accident inside a grain bin.

Authorities say the incident happened Saturday afternoon, February 21, in Newton, Kansas. Deputies with the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call on South Spencer Road around 2:30 p.m.

According to investigators, three men were inside a large grain bin working to level and empty soybeans when the contents suddenly shifted. One of the men became trapped.

Despite rescue efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His death was ruled accidental. The other two workers inside the bin were able to escape without injury.

The victim was later identified as Mark Klaassen, 37.

Klaassen leaves behind his wife, Kristie Harder, and their four young children: Dayton, 9; Carley, 7; Emmy, 5; and Breann, 3. He is also survived by his parents and three brothers.

In his obituary, Klaassen was remembered as a devoted family man who “cared deeply for his family.” He was an active member of Emmaus Church, where he served as chairman of the trustee board and led the church’s security team.

Beyond his faith community, Klaassen was involved in local leadership, serving on the Newton Township board and the Soil Conservation District. Friends say farming wasn’t just his job — it was his passion.

Grain bin accidents like this are among the most dangerous hazards in American agriculture. When grain shifts unexpectedly, it can act like quicksand, pulling workers under in seconds and making escape nearly impossible.

Recent data highlights just how serious the risk remains. According to Purdue University’s Agricultural Confined Space Incident Summary, there were 27 grain entrapment cases in 2023, including 16 fatalities. In 2024, the number rose to 51 cases and 22 deaths.