Catherine E. Klaas, age 96, of Fennimore, WI, passed away on Friday, December 17, 2021, at Grant Regional Health Center, Lancaster, WI. Catherine was born on April 4, 1925, in Castle Rock Township, the daughter of Frank and Emma (Petra) Washa. She was united in marriage to Aelred Klaas on February 5, 1944, in San Diego, CA.
Catherine and Aelred farmed in Liberty Township for 30 years until moving to Fennimore in 1990. She loved raising her family and lending a hand around the farm. Catherine enjoyed Saturday night’s playing cards with family and friends and going dancing along with crafting. She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved her relationships with her siblings. Catherine was an active member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the National Farmers Organization, Amway, and the Wisconsin Women for Agriculture. Her dedication to her Lord and Savior, and family will be remembered forever.
Catherine is survived by her 8 children: Sharon Klaas of Madison, Donna (Bob) Bukoski of Boise, ID, Sandy (Jim) LaMere of Lancaster, Mark (Therese) Klaas of Lancaster, Debra (Dee) Russell of East Dubuque, IL, Janet (Ron) Winkler of Deforest, Michelle Moore of Boscobel, Steve Klaas of Lancaster, daughter-in-law, Helen Klaas of Livingston, 23 grandchildren and 50 great-grandchildren sister Irene Williams of Madison, WI, Allen’s fiancé, Patti Sikhart of Appleton, along with many special nieces and nephews.
Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Aelred, infant son, Joseph Klaas, two sons Donald and Allen Klaas, grandson Craig LaMere, daughter-in-law Jane Klaas, seven siblings and dear friend and companion, Vernon Kjos.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday December 23, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fennimore. Immediately following the Mass, everyone is invited for food and fellowship in the church hall. Burial will then take place in the St. Clement Catholic Church Cemetery in Lancaster. Visitation will be held from 4-7:00 A.M. on Wednesday December 22, 2021, at the Larson Family Funeral Home in Fennimore and from 9:30-10:30 A.M. on Thursday morning at the funeral home.