Charles Klein

Charles Leo Klein was born on April 1, 1934, to Alfons and Marcella (Langenfeld) Klein near Earling, Iowa. He was raised on a farm north of Earling. Charles was baptized and later confirmed his faith at St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he remained a lifelong member. He received his education at St. Joseph Catholic Schools and graduated with the Class of 1952. After graduation, Charles worked for local farmers and spent time employed in Omaha, Nebraska. In 1955, he moved to Walnut, Iowa, to work on the Sievers Farms.

On September 6, 1955, Charles was united in marriage to Marie Gross at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earling. In 1958, they established their home on a farm west of Earling, where they began their farming life together. Charles raised corn, beans, hay, hogs, and a variety of cattle. They were blessed with seven children: Judy, Steven, LuAnn, Tim, Vicki, Jeff, and Mark. In addition to farming, Charles sold Vigortone Feed and, in 1978, was honored with the Farmer of the Year award from the Earling Commercial Club.

Charles was an active member of his community. He served on the parish council and the St. Joseph School Board, and in his younger years, was a member of the Earling Volunteer Fire Department. He also supported Father Jon and local Boy Scout leaders during camping trips and served as a trustee on the Grove Township Board.

He cherished time spent with loved ones and had a special fondness for babies, always thrilled to welcome a new addition to the family. He especially looked forward to summer vacations at Lake Okoboji, staying at the New Inn Resort with family and friends. Charles loved when the little ones came to visit and took great joy in attending his grandchildren’s school events. He was known for his sharp mind, a great sense of humor, fitting for someone born on April Fools' Day, and his talent for storytelling.

Charles passed away at his home near Earling on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the age of 91 years, five months and 27 days. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Tim Klein; grandsons: Nathan Klein and Jacob Klein; siblings: Rosemary Koppold, Donald, Klein, Bernard Klein, Alfons Klein Jr. and Richard Klein; and many siblings-in-law.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Marie Klein of Earling; children: Judy (Russ) Heese, Steve (Betty) Klein, LuAnn (Ron) Kramer all of Earling, Vicki (Kyle) Miller of Kiron, Jeff (Cindy) Klein of Earling and Mark (Cathy) Klein of Dunlap; 19 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; two great-great-granddaughters; sisters-in-law: Julie Klein of Earling, JoEllen Klein of Harlan and Maxine Klein of Audubon; and many other family members and friends.

A prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m. with his visitation to follow from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. all on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earling. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025, also at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earling. Interment will follow in the St. Jospeh Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family for various local donations to be made in his name.