Deacon Michael E. Klatt

Deacon Michael E. Klatt's favorite activity was to don his black felt cowboy hat, kayak into the middle of Lower Kaubashine Lake in northern Wisconsin to read a library book and spot loons.
He lost at least one book to the waters. Klatt, 53, borrowed at least two non-fiction titles, movie DVDs and magazines before he died from complications of a heart attack on Oct. 13.
He was the beloved son of Lorraine and the late Norbert Klatt; loving brother of the late Paul Klatt, Mary Beth, John (Lynn), Doug (Wendy), Bryan, Leslie (Bernardo) Navia, Andrew (Rebecca) and Peter and the late Stephanie Lynn Klatt; cherished Uncle of John Jr. (Sarah), Joseph, James, Jacquelyn, Jason, Jacob, Vanessa, Elena, Lucia, Xavier, Inti, Leaf, Rain and Juniper, Sedona and Jaycie.
A Waukegan resident, Michael graduated from Northridge Preparatory School, 1988. He also had a bachelor's degree in psychology (University of Missouri); an associate degree in hospitality/restaurant management (Kendall College, Evanston). Before entering Mundelein seminary, he worked with Catholic Relief Services in Honduras, Four Seasons Hotel, Chicago and Binny's.
As an Evans scholar, Michael supported the organization's activities. He also founded the non-profit Lux Christi, dedicated to helping the Candelaria, Honduras community. In addition to his love for the outdoors, golf and good books, Michael was an avid ichthyologist.
He served as a deacon at Most Blessed Trinity parish in Waukegan (2022-2023); St. John Brebeuf, Niles.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the prayers and love shown to them. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, C/O Sr. Paulanne's Needy Family Fund, 1775 Grove St., Glenview, IL 60025 and Northridge Preparatory School. The family is set to pay any of Michael's library fines.
Visitation will be held Monday, October 23 from 5 pm until time of Wake Service at 7 pm at Most Blessed Trinity Parish - Holy Family Catholic Church, 450 Keller Ave., Waukegan.
Visitation will also be held Tuesday, October 24 from 9:15 am until time of the Mass at 11 am at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 1775 Grove St., Glenview. Interment Maryhill Cemetery, Niles.