Kerri Klacking

Kerri Klacking

Kerri Christine Klacking passed away December 7, 2014. She was born and raised in Las Vegas before moving to Reno to attend the University of Nevada. She graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Geology and started a career with the engineering firm Harding Lawson. At this time she met John Klacking. They were married in 1989 and raised their two children in Reno.

Although her work was important to her, nothing could distract her from family and her focus on their children, John and Emma. Often in poor health, Kerri always rose to give John and Emma all the care and affection one could ask for. She made sure her family had every tool they needed to succeed and her pride in her family was reflected every day with her positive attitude.

Kerri's favorite thing to do was to be home relaxing with her family and pets. She knew every word to Toy Story, Scooby Doo, Zombie Island, and the Iron Giant, but never saw the actual movies. She only heard it from a different room while John and Emma watched them almost every day as youngsters.

John and Kerri lost their son John at the age of 10 to leukemia which greatly shaped their and Emma's lives. Emma was such a joy to Kerri and she bubbled over Emma's growth into what she is today, an outstanding young lady.

Kerri was an animal lover and took care of the family's three cats and a dog. She was especially close to her orange cat, Howdy, who never left her side. She called him "Howdy Pants" and he brought her happiness every day.

Kerri was a connoisseur of hot dogs, mac & cheese and spaghetti and one of her greatest talents was making fried spaghetti that everyone loved. She also was a fabulous cook that made the most mouthwatering brisket that could turn Texan heads. She loved woodworking and prided herself on being able to fix any type of household issue including electrical and plumbing problems.

Her mom was her best friend. You could always tell who Kerri was on the phone with because she had that big smile and a shining brightness while talking to her mom.

Through her tremendous health issues for 15 years she always kept a positive mind and upbeat attitude focusing on making everyone happy.

She is survived by her husband John and daughter Emma, three brothers (Jon, Dan & Joe Shines), her mother Jan Shines and many other aunts, uncles & cousins. She was proceeded in death by her son (John Stephen Klacking) and her father Stephen Shines.

Her family would like to thank the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Dr. John Shields in Reno and his group. Kerri's spirit will live on as her family continues to push for cures for this disease. Services will be as Kerri would wish, a private gathering and to take place in January.