Allen A. Klemm

Allen A. Klemm, 89, passed away January 20, 2012, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. Memorial Services celebrating his life will be held Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Church, 623 Church Street, St. Joseph with private burial to follow at Riverview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Church. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Allen was born June 10, 1922, in St. Joseph to Albert and Minnie (Poschke) Klemm. An original Silver Beach “sand rabbit,” he was born in the house next to the roller coaster. As a boy, he was a pin setter at the park. On Saturdays, he would help shine the brass on the carousel; his payment was a ride. After graduating from St. Joseph High School with the class of 1940, Allen served his country in the U.S. Army Deadeyes, during WWII. While serving in the Pacific Theater, he earned a Bronze Star for his selfless actions that saved many lives. On April 17, 1951, in St. Joseph, Allen married Betty Dill. They had a wonderful life together, raising four children. He was an amazing husband and father. Allen was a linotype operator for the A.B. Morse Co., and the Herald Palladium, retiring from both after 16 years of service. Allen was a member of the St. Peter’s Church, and avid reader, and enjoyed long walks. Allen is survived by his son Ed Klemm, daughter Karen (Ken) Morgan, grandson Stan (Cortney) Modelewski, and the apple of his eye, greatgranddaughter Ella. Waiting to meet him are his parents, Al & Minnie, wife Betty, sons, Jim & John, and sister Margie.