Donald Klatke

Don joined the family of Walter E. and Clara Austad Klatke on September 23, 1929, the first born of four siblings.  He is survived by his three siblings – James Klatke (Bea), Marlys Edlund and Mary Nygren (Mel).

After Don was honorably discharged from the Army in 1953 he continued his education at the University of Minnesota in the field of general engineering, but being a man who loved to work with his hands, he became an electrician and was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 110.  He also became a skilled woodworker as can be seen in the furniture he built for his home and homes of family members.

Don and his wife of 54+ years, Clara, are loved people and loved to serve others.  Together they were honored to be able to travel internationally on teams whose focus was to share the Good News of the Gospel by doing numerous community service projects such as building schools or churches, as well as teaching English-as-a-second language, and providing medical services in under-served communities.  They generously shared time with others by coming along side them to fill a need.

Don left this earthly home to enter into the presence of his Lord and Saviour on February 13, 2020.  He is survived by his wife, Clara Seecamp Klatke, daughters Barbara Weibeler and Sharon Pauly (Kevin) and son, Jeffrey S. Klatke; grandchildren, Donya Gjerdingen (Beau), Taryn Rosdhal, Danielle Friesner (Carl) and Ryan Pauly; great-grandchildren, Ephram and Alwyn Gjerdingen, and Ella Friesner and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  He is predeceased by his parents and his son Douglas J. Klatke.

Don and his family have been blessed by the many expressions of love, care and support from family and friends, and by the hospice team who provided care with compassion during the time of Don’s declining health.  Thank you one and all.  You were, and are, God’s angels in the flesh.  Blessings upon you.