Michael 'Mike' Klekamp
Michael “Mike” Klekamp, 61, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born July 6, 1959, in Washington, Mo., to William and Dorothy (Straatmann) Klekamp. Mike’s early years were spent in Missouri. His family moved to Wisconsin in the 1970s, after visiting different parts of the country until they found a home in the beautiful valleys of Crawford County. Mike was the oldest of six siblings and played the role of the oldest child well, both instigating some trouble and protecting them from harm. He went into farming with his parents and brother and continued farming throughout his life. Mike had two beautiful sons, Seth and Jake, who brought joy and constancy to Mike’s fun-filled life. Mike shared with his sons a great appreciation for the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing and mushroom hunting—hobbies he not only taught his sons, but also through which he met wonderful, lifelong friends. Mike met his best friend and soul mate Laurie Richardson later in life. They spent eight wonderful years together where he was “Papa Mike” to Laurie’s grandkids. Mike will be missed.
He is survived by his son, Seth (Karen Meulendyke) Klekamp of Madison; his parents; his siblings, Joe (Cheryl) Klekamp of Gays Mills; Donna (Ron) Torgerson of Seneca; Judy (Dan) Timmons of Minneapolis, Minn.; Jane Klekamp (Keith Belzer) of La Crosse and Rita (Justin) Fortney of Soldiers Grove; and his nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his best friend Laurie Richardson; her children; 11 grandchildren and two very special great-grandchildren, Wesley and Paislie.
He was preceded in death by his son Jacob Klekamp.
A Celebration of Mike’s life will be held at a later date. The Vosseteig Funeral Home in Gays Mills is assisting the family with arrangements.
