Velma Klenke

Velma Jean Klenke, age 81 of Darlington, WI passed away Thursday, March 28, 2019 at UW-Hospital in Madison due to a respiratory illness with her loving daughters Debbie and Doreene by her side. She was born December 17, 1937 in Alamosa, CO the daughter of James and Leona (Welch) Haws. Velma graduated from Alamosa High School in Alamosa, CO. She lived in Colorado until 1955 when she moved to Scales Mound, IL later to Apple River, IL and Warren, IL area. She moved to Darlington in 1979 where she has resided since. Velma had numerous jobs which included being a hostess, waitress, factory worker, a ticket reservationist, and a farmer for 29 years. Velma is survived by her daughters: Debbie (Gary) Block of Warren and Doreene (Brad) Crapp of Darlington; two grandchildren: Brittny (Russ) Redfearn of Galena, IL and Jason (Jonne-l) Hendrickson of Jonesboro, GA; and three great-granddaughters: Raelynn, Madelynn, and Katelynn Redfearn. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons: David Klenke in infancy and Kevin Klenke in 1987; one grandson: Nicholas Block; and her pet dogs: "Rico" and "Trinket." Velma was an honorary member of the Blue Bird Society in Darlington. She enjoyed playing bingo with her daughter Doreene, playing cards, bowling, painting ceramics, and watching the birds. She cherished the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren creating memories they will all remember forever. She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her family and friends. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. at Erickson Funeral Home (508 Main St., Darlington) with Cliff Klenke officiating. Burial will be in Scales Mound Cemetery. A visitation will be held Monday, April 1, 2019 from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Erickson Funeral Home and on Tuesday from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Velma's name.