Daniel Arthur Kleven

Daniel "Dan" Arthur Kleven, 76, of Willmar, Minnesota, passed away early Friday morning, February 6, 2026, at St. Cloud Hospital after suffering a stroke.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, both at Vinje Lutheran Church. Interment with military honors will be at Cloverleaf Cemetery in Willmar. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Vinje Lutheran Church, Minnesota Public Radio, or PBS. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Homes.

Dan, a Vietnam veteran and graduate of Mankato State University, was born February 24, 1949, at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar to Wally and Nellie Kleven. Two things Dan treasured most were the outdoors and people. The coffee pot was always on, and everyone was welcome in his home. Friends were family, and family were friends.

Dan's energy was infectious. He had an easy way of making friends of all ages, often striking up conversations with complete strangers by asking, "So what's for dinner tonight?" He deeply honored those who paved the way before him and served as a grounding presence and source of wisdom for those fortunate enough to share his company.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wally and Nellie Kleven, and his sister, Kathy. Dan is survived by his wife, Debbie; his children, Eric (Kenzie), Grant (Molly), and Andrew (Stephanie); his grandchildren, Elizabeth, Nora, Zoey, and June; his sisters, Lisa (Eric) and Jodi (Thom); and his beloved nieces and nephews.