Joseph Klein, 70, Richardton, ND, entered into Gods Kingdom of Grace on Thursday, August 23, 2007 at United Hospital in St. Paul, MN. Joe’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1 p.m., Wednesday, August 29, 2007 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Richardton, with Fr. Boniface Muggli, OSB as the celebrant. Interment will take place on Thursday at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. Military honors will be provided by the Richardton American Legion, Theo. R. Zech Post #180 following the mass. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson with a vigil at 7 p.m.. Visitation will continue on Wednesday one hour prior to services at the church.
Joseph “Joe” Klein was born October 4, 1936 in Dickinson, ND to Paul J. and Philomenia (Kubishta) Klein. Joe’s mother passed away when Joe was two years old and he was raised by his father and siblings. At the age of 17, Joe entered the U.S. Army and served his country honorably through the Korean War. He was a long standing member of the Richardton American Legion Theo. R. Zech Post #180.
Upon discharge from the service, Joe worked as a ranch hand for Ted Diles, where he met and married Freida Steckler of Richardton, ND. They were united in marriage at Scranton Lutheran Church on May 1, 1966. They made their home in Richardton, ND where Joe worked for the city as a Police Officer, and water works professional. Later in life he worked for Kramer Sheet Metal, installing heating and air conditioning units for 31 years, retiring in 1999. Upon retiring he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was an avid gardener and woodworker. He loved working with his hands whether it was a strong helping hand or a gentle touch. To his children he was a hero compared to none. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and camping. He was also an amazing cook. His wry sense of humor even under the worst of circumstances will be greatly missed.
Joe is survived by his wife Freida; children, Leon (Sandy Heller) Sand, Connie (Terry) Werlinger, Dale (Tom Pepera) Sand, Brenda (Rick) Large, Cherie (Randy) Steffan, Jeannie (Ron Mjanger) Klein, and Joanne Klein. 16 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and special friend Abu. He is also survived by sisters, Catherine (Val) Urlacher, Mary Berger, and Veronica Oster.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers; Tony, Val and Frank, and grandsons; Jason and Adam. He will be greatly missed in this life and rejoiced with in the afterlife. God Bless the memory of Joseph Klein!
