Edward J. Kleckner

Edward Joseph Kleckner, age 73 of Menasha, WI joined his heavenly kingdom on July 10, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born to Hugo and Lucille (Hartlaub) Kleckner on April 2, 1951 in Two Rivers, WI. Ed graduated Roncalli High School with the class of ‘69 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin Madison. He performed a lot of jobs with his degree and specialty, but was best known as an urban and regional planner for the City of Appleton and East Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (ECWRPC). Ed met the love of his life, Kathryn Kramer and they were married in June of 1974. Together, they raised two wonderful children and enjoyed a lifetime of happy memories. 

Ed was a truly compassionate and caring man. He re-housed, counseled, and helped to educate numerous children and families in the current harsh economic and sociopolitical climate of Bolivia. He was a big advocate for the Friends of the Fox and historical preservation . Ed was a proud member of ESTHER Fox Valley, working to bring faith communities together, sharing in hope, and standing for social justice. He designed the walking paths for Appleton on the river and was instrumental in ensuring they were built right. Ed even helped to build some of the most beloved restaurants and other establishments in Appleton, including Fratellos. More than anything, though, Ed loved his family and cherished every moment spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. 

Ed will be deeply missed by his wife, Kathy; his children, Bryan and Christine (Joe); his grandchildren, Jameson and Austin; his siblings, Jim (Margarita), Ann (Ron), Kathryn (John), Bill (Pam), Betsy (Milt), Sue (Andy), Marilyn (Marty), Jeanne (Dennis), Linda, and Nancy (John); 7 siblings-in-law on Kathy’s side; his sponsored children, Claudia, Jenny, Sandy, and many others in Bolivia; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends. 

Ed is preceded in death by his parents, Hugo and Lucille; his parents-in-law, Maxine and Paul; and 2 brothers-in-law.

A funeral visitation will be held for Ed on Monday, July 15, 2024 from 9-11 AM at St. Bernadette Catholic Parish, 2331 E. Lourdes Dr, Appleton, WI 54915 with a mass to follow at 11 AM, officiated by his cousin, Fr. Randy Budnar. Ed will be laid to rest at Forest View Cemetery in Two Rivers, WI at 2:30 PM on Friday, July 19, 2024. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Children of Vietnam or to A Breeze of Hope in honor of Ed using the links below.

Ed’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Sandy in Bolivia who spent 6 months of her time in America, helping to take care of Ed. Also a huge thanks to Ed’s wonderful hospice team, especially Lexie, Claudia, and Carolyn, for the care and compassion shown to Ed in his time of need. 

Donate to A Breeze of Hope: https://abreezeofhope.networkforgood.com/projects/35762-general-donations 

Donate to Children of Vietnam: https://childrenofvietnam.org/donate/