Jerome J. “Jerry” Kleis, 79, St. Cloud

October 23, 1936 - July 7, 2016

Private family services will be held at a later date for Jerome J. “Jerry” Kleis, age 79, of St. Cloud, who passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2016 lovingly surrounded by his family at St. Benedict’s Senior Community. Arrangements are with Daniel Funeral Home, St. Cloud.

Jerome was born on October 23, 1936 to George and Emma (Fischer) Kleis. He married Donna Kerst on August 24, 1957 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Watkins, MN. Jerry honorably served his country in the United States Navy. He worked in the granite industry for 47 years, retiring from Rex Granite. He was a member of the Eagles Aerie #622, Moose Lodge #1400 and the Eden Valley American Legion #381. Jerry loved to have family poker games, barbecues, and cooking for his family, especially on Christmas Eve.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Donna; children, Char (Gary) Torborg, Lefty (Lisa), Deb Cordie (Jerry Sievers), Brenda Mehr, Janelle (Kenny) Martins, Tom (Ellie Gliadon), Sharon (Butch) Sticha, Jay, Brian (Becky Kampa); 26 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren; siblings, Rich, Carol (Ed) Kelm, Shirley Tatro, and Mary Ann (Vernon) Hukreide; and his buddy dog “Doozer”.

He is preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Russell Mehr; and siblings, Leo, Leonard, Lawrence, Jimmy and Sally Nistler.

Jerry’s family wishes to thank St. Benedict’s Senior Community Short Stay South staff for their incredible kindness to our family during his stay.