John C. Kliethermes Sr.
October 5, 1932 ~ July 14, 2022
John Charles Kliethermes Sr., age 89 of Forest Lake, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2022, at Maplewood’s St. John’s Hospital with his wife holding his hand and children by his side.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Rita; his five children; John (Jami) Kliethermes Jr., Mark (MaryAnn) Kliethermes,
Kevin Kliethermes, Dale Kliethermes and Lori Kliethermes; eight grandchildren, Rachel (Michael) Will, Chris (Katy) Kliethermes, John (Mary) Kliethermes III, Ann (Eric) Waletzko, Mark (Aline) Kliethermes, Jr., Stephanie Kliethermes, David (Chelsea) Kliethermes and Cody (Megan soon to be) Kliethermes; twelve great grandchildren, David, Daniel, Twins Mary and Jami Will, Makayla and Easton Kliethermes, Mariana Kliethermes, Jack and Phillip Waletzko, Lily Kliethermes, Luke Kliethermes, Kennedi Kliethermes; four nephews, Greg (Barb) Kliethermes, Kenny (Karen)Kliethermes, Carl (Cindy) Kliethermes and Roger (Kathy) Kliethermes; along with other family relatives.
John was born at home in Loose Creek Missouri on October 5, 1932, eldest son to Charles and Luella (Orscheln) Kliethermes. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Leonard and wife Renilda (Rustemeyer) Kliethermes.
John proudly served 4 years in the Korean war aboard the USS Battleship Missouri. He worked for the Missouri Highway
Department while attending college under the GI Bill and graduated from the University of Missouri with a Civil Engineer degree. He obtained his Professional Engineers license and worked much of his dedicated engineering career throughout the mid-west with the Federal Highway Administration until his retirement in the state of Colorado, 1994.
John was a long-time member of the Society of the Holy Name. He donated his eyes to the University of Minnesota Research and Education Center. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to a Cancer Research Center, donors’ choice.
Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM Saturday, July 23rd with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Church of St. Peter, 1250 S. Shore Dr., Forest Lake. Services will also take place in Loose Creek, Missouri at a later date.
John's Mass will be live streamed here: https://youtu.be/UlUOpOMCQAM
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On behalf of the Forest Lake American Legion Post 225, we give thanks for John’s military service to our country in the Navy and to veterans as a Legion member.
This photo was taken one of the last times I saw Uncle Johnny. My dad and Aunt Rita sitting around the kitchen table. Will always remember him just like this. My best to the family and sending hugs and prayers. Love you all so much! ❤️❤️💔❤️❤️
Grandpa, you left a positive impact on everyone you met. Between your kindness and eagerness to help others, you quickly became someone everyone loved and trusted. I’m so thankful to have had you by my side throughout my childhood, adulthood and in to motherhood. Your love, guidance and support, will be something I treasure forever, and my boys will grow up knowing just how truly remarkable Great Grandpa was and just how much he meant to their mom. I miss you more than words can explain. I love you Grandpa, forever and always . Love your Annie, Jack, Phillip and Eric
Heaven gained the best of the best. Grandpa, the legacy you have built will live on forever. You are loved beyond words, and adored by all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Kenny & Karen, Greg & Barb, Carl & Cindy, Roger & Kathy
Dear Grandpa (in-law)- I will truly miss all the laughs and amazing talks we had. Thank you for welcoming me into the Kliethermes family with open arms and always being a support system. You always have the best hugs especially to our little ones. I know Easton has gained another one of the best guardian angels there could be. We love you and will miss you, but we are forever thankful for the lifelong memories that were made. Thank you for leading Johnny and even better setting him straight at times. Love you always! Mary, Johnny, Makayla and Easton
Lori, Sincere condolences my dear friend! You and your family are in our hearts and prayers. Mark and Shauna Lloyd
Lori, I’m so sorry to learn about the passing of your father. My sincere condolences to you and your family on your loss. Jim Keeley
With love and hugs,
Dear Family,
How I praise and thank our Lord for such a precious boss, friend, and coworker as John. I had the privilege of working for John and with him for many years. He was a great motivator and encouraging person who supported me greatly. I sorry with you in his passing but rejoice in having known him and appreciated him so much.
Yours in Christ,
Doyt Bolling