of Mountain View, AR
March 23, 1956 - December 9, 2023
Ernest Joseph Kleckner, 67, of Mountain View, Arkansas left this world and woke in the arms of his Savior on December 9, 2023. He was born March 23, 1956 in Osage, Iowa to the late Maurice and Leona Kleckner.
Ernie grew up in rural St. Ansgar on the family farm, after leaving the farm, Ernie attended college in Austin, Minnesota where he received his Journalism Degree and also met the love of his life, Mary Elizabeth (Weis) Kleckner. He and Mary were married on July 16, 1977. He worked as an information operator for a telephone company and also at Cooperate Response Centers in Austin, Minnesota for emergency call monitoring. Ernie was a strong man of faith, he loved attending church at Arbanna Baptist Church, where he enjoyed the loving fellowship of those he met and worshipped with. He also loved music from the 60's and 70's, fishing on his pontoon, wood working and traveling to new places with his beloved Mary. Ernie never met a stranger and was a blessing to all who knew him and he will be missed. Special mention goes to Brayden Ausborn, who was known as Ernie's little buddy; to Tom Holtorf, Ernie's best man at his and Mary's wedding and friend for the past 46 years and to Randell Norris who was his Bible study partner and close friend.
Ernie is preceded in death by his parents, Maurice Jerome Kleckner and Leona Selma (Pattyn) Kleckner.
Ernie is survived by his wife, Mary Kleckner; brothers, Mark Kleckner of Minnesota, Steven (Janet) Kleckner of Minnesota, Patrick (Marrianne) Kleckner of Colorado; sisters, Nancy (Tom) Schrag of Minnesota, Sally (Bob) Hertel of Iowa and a host of nephews, nieces, family and friends.
A memorial service will take place on Saturday, December 16, 2023, 3:00PM at Roller Crouch Chapel in Mountain View, Arkansas.
Honoraries are Tom Holtorf and Randell Norris.
Roller Crouch Funeral Home in Mountain View, Arkansas is in charge of the arrangements.
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14 Condolence(s)
John Groth
Sunday, December 17, 2023
Rest in peace Ernie. I grew up with you and your family as neighbors. I have many funny adventures as kids. You and your family were cherished by me and my family. God bless you and your family.
Amy Murphy Campbell
Saturday, December 16, 2023
I’m so glad I got to know you and Ernie during nursing school. Love and hugs my sweet friend.
P.S. Remember when we would get called each others name constantly. :)
Linda Gibeau (was Busker)
Thursday, December 14, 2023
Oh, Mary, I am sorry to hear this news. Ernie was an usher in my wedding in 1979 here in Austin, when I married Kevin. Ernie was key in when we were introduced at Austin Community College. Marriage quickly moved me to Ky, Ia and Wisconsin, and we lost contact. Ernie was such a teddy bear! Again, I’m so sorry for your loss.
Deb Neitzel
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Mary, I'm so glad we got to see you both in Minnesota. We had fun all the time. With our trips we took together. The Black hills, Canada comes to mind also and Bing cherries. We laughed, we just enjoyed hanging out together. I think that you are the best sister and friend ever and Ernie completed you. He will be dearly be missed . He adored you and you him you were his happy place and he found his home with you in Arkansa. Love you, your big sister Deb
Crystal
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Hello my dear friend,
I am sorry to hear the bad news I will be praying for peace and comfort for you and your loved ones hearts and minds.
I am here if you need anything a friend at three am here I am Ernie was a good man and I know you loved each other to the moon and back , I mean how could anyone not love him he had such good visits. He will be very much missed but we'll see him again one day . Until then know your not alone love you bunches
Pam wobig
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Mary,so sorry for your loss. Prayers and blessings
Larry KlecKner
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
RIP.Earnie Joe
Kathy Picha
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
My dear Mary, unconditional love comes to mind for your marriage to Ernie, I always admired your love and commitment to each other. Hugs your way. Kathy Picha
Duane Rhoades Sr.
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Mary & Family, Sorry for your loss. I grew up 'down the street (218)' from the Kleckners. Loved playing with them. Always enjoyed their company. The Lord's peace be with you and yours.
Steven Kleckner
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Rest in peace little brother.
Perry Roberts
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Mary and friends, sorry to hear about Ernest passing away. Sending sympathy and prayers during this difficult time.
Lauren Ramsey
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Rest easy my gumbo loving friend. It was an honor and privilege to have been blessed to have met and known you. Mary, all my love goes out to you!
Lacey & Dani Castaneda
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Ernie was the best listener, an amazing story teller, and above all a wonderful husband. I am so sorry you have found yourself in such a dark time, but I pray that you take solace in the wonderful memories you hold dear of each other and that it somehow brings you comfort. He will always be present at heart. I apologize for being so far away from you; I am sending my deepest and warmest hugs and love to you Mary. I am praying for you and I know that God will comfort you and your family and graciously show you his love during this difficult time. Although the hurt from his passing will never disappear or wither, may the strength we receive from loved ones, friends, and God help you find solace.
I also hope that you remember how a devoted and loyal wife you have been through all these years. I remember when Ernie once told me that he would be completely lost without you and that you are a very rare gem out in this world. His deep admiration and great respect for you has always left a profound impression on me.
I hope you know how much you are both cared for.
Love you Mary,
Lacey & Dani
Kim, Rob and Morghyn Finley
Monday, December 11, 2023
Mary, our family has been thinking of you this past weekend. Are hearts are heavy knowing you are going through this by yourself.( but we are with you in your heart)
Ernie Joe was and is a great man, husband and friend. He loved you unconditionally and did anything you wanted. He was able to enjoy his time in Arkansas and that is where he wanted to be.. He was able to buy you a wonderful house to live and enjoy your time together.
Love you Mary
Kim Rob and Morghyn