James Klecker, 82, Owatonna
James (Jim) Francis Klecker, age 82, passed away on July 11, 2026, exactly eight years after the passing of his beloved wife, Barbara.
Jim was born on June 30, 1944, to Joseph P. and Martha (Wesely) Klecker. He grew up on the family dairy farm near Litomysl and developed a lifelong love of farming that shaped the rest of his life.
In 1965, Jim proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War before being honorably discharged as a Specialist E-4 in 1967. He remained a proud Vietnam veteran and longtime member of the Owatonna VFW and Blooming Prairie American Legion.
Following his military service, he purchased his first combine and worked day and night custom farming for local farmers. His hard work paid off, and the combine was completely paid for by the end of its first harvest season. He also worked at Peterson Floor Covering, Faribault Turkey Plant and at the Owatonna Tool Company.
On May 8, 1971, Jim married Barbara Srsen. They began their journey together in a rented home in Hope. In 1972, they purchased their first farm in Summit Township and Jim continued to live there until his passing.
Together they built their farming operation in Summit Township and raised their two sons, Michael and David, whom Jim often called his greatest blessing, who now operate the family farm. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his children and grandchildren.
A lifelong member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Litomysl, Jim faithfully served his parish and community. He spent 32 years on the Steele County Soil and Water Conservation Board and operated Klecker Livestock Hauling for more than 40 years. Known for his gift of conversation, Jim never met a stranger and treasured time spent visiting with family, friends, and neighbors. He enjoyed going to local cafes where they BS’ed for hours and flipped for the tip. After Barb's passing, Jim spent many hours sharing meals and conversation with his dear friend, Dee, whose friendship meant a great deal to him.
Jim is survived by his sons, Michael (Sara) Klecker and David (Patricia) Klecker; his grandchildren, Jacob, Jenna, Joseph, Alexis, Brendan, and Harbor; his sister, Rose Ann (Bruce) Kubicek; his brothers, John (Jan) Klecker and Dan Klecker; sister-in-law Marlys Wencel, brother-in-law David Srsen, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Barbara; sister-in-law Marcia Klecker; brother-in-law Victor Wanous; and nephew David Wencl.
Friends may greet the family from 4–7 p.m. on Thursday July 16, 2026, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, and one hour prior to the funeral at church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. on Friday July 17, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church at Litomysl,
9946 SE 24th Ave., Owatonna. Burial to follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery at Litomysl with Military Honors provided by the Steele County Funeral Unit. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday before the visitation at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Holy Trinity Catholic Church at Litomysl or St. Mary’s Catholic School in Owatonna. For more information or to leave an online condolence message go to www.megercares.com.