John Leo Klas

John Leo Klas Age 72, born May 25, 1941 John went peacefully Home to his Heavenly Father surrounded by his family at home on Sunday November 17, 2013. Loving husband of 41 years of Jean (nee Petersen). Amazing dad of Jenni (Tad) Schubring, Jayne (Jeff) Meske, and Jesse Klas. Proud Grandpa of Silas, Micah, Sylvia and Abel Schubring; Mindy, Emily and Haylee Meske; and Hayden and Hadley Klas. Preceeded in death by his father John Oscar Klas, mother Martha (Gasper) Klas, and brother Robert Klas. Dear brother to William (Laurene) Klas, Patricia (Dale) Croatt, Sister Joannes, Lois (William) Lawton, Roseanne (Tom) Watry, Ivan (Louise) Klas, Laura (Wally) Weyker, Peter (Susie) Klas and Verna (Robert) Leider. Brother-in-law to Arlene Riddell, Janet (the late Gordon)Gehring, Lynette (Roger) Huberty, Linda (Robert) Bartelt and Jean Klas. Further survived by nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends. Owner of two 1950 8N Ford tractors “because three would just be ridiculous!” John was born in Port Washington and grew up on the family farm in Fredonia, WI. As the fifth child in a line of 11, John was a good younger brother, but an even better older brother. John was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam. He served well and, with his quick wit and one-liners, was one of the few who could get a laugh out of higher ranking officers. After the Army, John continued working at Tecumseh Engines in Grafton as a toolmaker for a total of 49 years. His mode of transportation to work? His feet, his bicycle, his unicycle, his tractor, and, on rare occasion, his van. He also worked at Saks Furniture for his good friend Jim McMullin delivering and repairing furniture. Though he never got to work this way, one of John’s favorite pastimes was roller skating—which is how he met his wife, Jean. He especially loved to waltz on skates with her. John married Jean on May 20, 1972. A year later they moved into their “starter home” in Grafton with their first child. John loved sports, especially when his children were playing. He drove countless miles with Jean to watch his children, and more recently, his grandchildren participate in every team, organization, and club. John also enjoyed listening to Jesse play the piano and loved hearing Jenni and Jayne sing. John’s favorite places were his recliner (watching Fox News), his workshop at Peter’s (doing side jobs), Lake Puckaway, and Camp Phillip. He loved working on his tractors, especially when it included working with his brother, Peter. Neighbors reaped the many benefits John and his tractors offered. John and Jean never left their starter home. It’s where they raised their children, opened their home to seven foster children, made memories with their grandchildren, and where he ultimately went to his eternal home. John’s marriage to Jean and his love for his family leaves a legacy that reaches far beyond his home. John had a servant heart like no other. He lived his faith out loud, not with his words, but with his actions. The funeral service will be held on Friday, November 22 at 6:00 pm with a visitation from 4:00-6:00pm at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Grafton. In lieu of flowers memorials to Camp Phillip would be appreciated.