Vernon D Klaus

Vernon D. Klaus 83 of Fairbury, NE. passed away January 16, 2017 at Cedarwood Assisted Living care in Fairbury. He was born November 1, 1933 near Bremen, KS. to Martin & Paula (Duensing) Klaus. He was baptized, confirmed, and attended school through 8th grade at Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Bremen.

On March 11, 1956 Vern married Eleanor Rademacher of Odell. They had 3 sons, Ronald, Rodney, and Larry. Vern and his family enjoyed sports, camping, and going on family vacations during the summer months.

After 8th grade Vern worked for many area farmers until he signed up for military service. In the Army, he served our country for 18 months in the Korean War, plus a two year term in the Army Reserve. After his service, he worked briefly for Colgrove and the Odell Elevator. Vern and Eleanor moved to Fairbury where Vern took a job for Preston Mills (1957-1978). In 1978, Vern accepted a job at Stanton Farm Services, and remained working there until his retirement in 1998. Vern volunteered many years for the Fairbury Rural fire department. He also continually served the Lord at Grace Lutheran Church, as a Maintenance Director, Usher, and Elder. Vern enjoyed working and helping others, and took great pride in it!

Any sporting event was typically on the TV, but he especially enjoyed cheering on the KC Royals and any of the Husker’ teams. Vern enjoyed his life to the fullest by attending all of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities. He also loved seeing all of the great grandchildren when they came to visit. Vern and his wife loved to travel and got the opportunity to see many places including, Hawaii, Alaska, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Holland, and the Caribbean. They also spent many winter months in Texas with family and friends.
Survivors are Wife: Eleanor Klaus of Fairbury, Sons: Ron & Jan Klaus of Fairbury, Rod & Deb Klaus of Crete, Larry & Denise Klaus of Bennington, 6 Grandchildren: Khara & Marcus Malcom of Lincoln, Krysten & Brian Knippelmeyer of Crete, Andrea & Ryan Hynek of Fairbury, Cassandra & Reid Horky of Fairbury, Denver Klaus of Lakewood CO. and Victoria Klaus of Hastings. 7 Great Grandchildren: Aubrie, Blaikley, Rorie, & Bailey Hynek; Paige & Jace Malcom; Carter Horky, Brother: David Klaus of Odell, Sister: Lola Dorn of Beatrice, Sister-in-law: Ella Klaus of Beatrice, Brother-in-law: Myron Lohse of Hanover, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Everett & Arlan, sisters Anita Lohse, Elaine (Eldo) Minge, Verla (Alvin) Bures, and sister-in-law Darlene Klaus.

Services will be at 10:30 am Friday January 20, 2017 at Grace Lutheran Church in Fairbury, with Pastor Charles Schmidt officiating. The family will greet friends Thursday evening January 19th from 6:30 to 7:30 pm at Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home.