Dennis E. Kluemke, age 78, of Carlyle, passed away at home surrounded by his family on September 8, 2024.
Dennis was born in Breese, Illinois, on June 30, 1946, to the late George and Florence (Diekemper) Kluemke. He married Mary Lou Mondt on April 17, 1969, at St. Francis Church in Aviston.
A graduate of Mater Dei Catholic High School, Dennis dedicated his life to working as a grain and dairy farmer. He also served his country as a veteran of the United States Air Force Reserves. Despite the long hours spent on the farm, Dennis found joy in his work and cherished time with his grandchildren and had a passion for watching tractor pulls. Dennis was a dedicated member of numerous organizations. He was an active parishioner at St. Teresa’s Church in Marydale, regularly attending services, and was involved in several community organizations, including the Beckemeyer American Legion, Dairy Farmers of America, Mid-America Dairymen, Carlyle FFA Alumni, and the Clinton County Farm Bureau. Dennis also served on the Carlyle North Water Board and the Wheatfield Fire Department.
Mr. Kluemke is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Lou Kluemke of Carlyle; his children: Keith Kluemke (special friend, Shelbi McCandrew) of Carlyle, Kevin Kluemke (Lorie) of Aviston, and Kyle Kluemke (special friend, Stephanie Forrester) of Carlyle; his cherished grandchildren: Regan Kluemke (special friend, Evan Dorff), Rylie Kluemke, Nolan Kluemke, and Aidan Kluemke; his sister, Joan Wilke (Stan) of Highland; and several nieces and nephews.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, George and Florence Kluemke; his daughter, Donna Kluemke; his brothers, Mathias “Mat” Kluemke (Mary) and Gerhard Kluemke (Bernadette); and a sister, Rosemary Kluemke.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at St. Teresa Catholic Church (18021 Marydale Rd, Carlyle, IL). Interment with military honors will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Carlyle. Visitation will be held at Zieren Funeral Home (1111 Clinton Street, Carlyle, IL) on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 4:00-8:00 PM, and on Thursday morning from 8:00-10:30 AM.
Expressions of sympathy in memory of Mr. Kluemke are suggested to St. Teresa Church or to the Wheatfield Fire Department and will be received through Zieren Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
