Ralph W. Klasen

On August 1, 2021, Ralph Wayne Klasen passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, after a 25-year challenge with Parkinson's Disease. Ralph was born on March 24, 1937, in Coleman, Wisconsin, to the late Francis and Lillian (Mursau) Klasen. Ralph had a 28-year successful career as a Buyer for Prange Way and retired from the F. Dohmen Company as a Category Manager. He genuinely enjoyed his career and taught his children the importance of a great work ethic. Ralph was a very active member of the St. John the Baptist Church in the Village of Howard, WI. He proudly was the first President of the Parish Council, chaired the church picnic for 15 years, served 2 terms as President of the Athletic Club and was an usher for 45 years. Ralph also loved to travel and spend time with his friends. He enjoyed many trips to Jamaica as well as other beautiful places. He would often say, "Travel while you are young!". Favorite memories of Ralph include playing endless card games with his grandchildren, eating Cheetos as good luck for the Packers, belly laughing at the "3 Stooges" and sneaking Snickers bars.

Ralph's dream was to have a big family and his greatest accomplishment was being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to 39. He loved his family more than anything in this world! Christmas Eve was his favorite holiday where he was surrounded by the laughter and love of his entire family. He brought joy to many children by dressing as Santa and visiting the homes of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and charitable organizations. Ralph, fondly called "Lambchops" by his wife, survived by his wife of 65 years and "Lovebugs", Faye, and his 4 children: Kevin Klasen, John (Jill) Klasen, Karen (Kevin) Klover and Michelle (Paul) Dahlke. He is further survived by his 9 grandchildren: Kristen Klasen, Lauren (fiancé Max Murphy) Klasen, Kari (Paul) Klasen Lisi, Michael (Carmen) Klasen, Christine (Justin) Spettel, Cory (Sara) Klover, Cara (Zackary) Sloden, Chloe (friend Caleb Johnson) Dahlke and Carter Dahlke along with 11 great-grandchildren: Addyson Klasen, "Baby on The Way" Murphy, Cordelia Lisi, Georgia Lisi, Amelia Klasen, Landon Spettel, Lauren Spettel, Liv Spettel, Kennedy Klover, Rylee Klover, and Hudson Klover. In addition, he is survived by his sister, Shirley Champeau, sister-in-law Barbara Klasen, Lylas Klasen and Joanne Winnekins. He is also survived by Bob and lois Wech who have been devoted friends for 50+ years and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Lillian (Mursau) Klasen, his brothers Roger Klasen and Reverend Thomas Klasen; Faye's parents Ralph and Mary (Martell) Winnekins; brothers-in-law Glenn Champeau, Bill Winnekins, John Winnekins, Arnold Servotte, Bernie Vanden Avond, and Jim Van Lieshout; sisters-in-law Mary "Tootie" Servotte, Patricia "Pat" Vanden Avond, and Phyllis Van Lieshout. Travel friends of 50+ years: Al & Delores Gerczak, Larry & Betty Anderkay, and Doug & Lou Heroux.

Family and friends may call at St. John the Baptist Church, 2597 Glendale Avenue, Village of Howard from 2-4 PM on Monday, August 9. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 4 PM celebrated by Fr. James Lucas. To leave an online condolence please visit www.newcomergreenbay.com.

Ralph did not see the value of cut flowers for any occasion. He felt money was better spent helping others in the community. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests you consider a gift to Unity Hospice, In Memory of Ralph Klasen, 2366 Oak Ridge Circle, De Pere, WI 54115 to support the amazing caregivers or to a charitable organization of your choice.