Marlin D. Klehm

Marlin Dean Klehm, 71, passed away at his home on April 6, 2020, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born in Belmond, Iowa, on October 2, 1948, the son of Raymond and Clara Klehm.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date due to the State of Iowa’s recent prohibition of public gatherings of groups greater than 10 people.

Marlin graduated from Clarion High School in 1966. After attending Airline School, he worked for Northwest Airlines in Detroit, MI, for a short stint during the riots of 1967. After relocating to Clarion, he worked at C & R Buick. He later became employed at Hagie Manufacturing where he worked just shy of 40 years. He also farmed for several years with his Uncle near Belmond.

Marlin married Linda (Anderson) Klehm on July 26, 1969, and they shared 50+ wonderful years of marriage together. She truly was the love of his life and he enjoyed letting everyone know that.

Marlin enjoyed boating, fishing, golfing, waterskiing, playing cards, and traveling with his wife. He was a family man in every sense of the way. Going from work, to the farm, and then making sure to never miss one of his kids sporting events was a common thing for him.

Marlin was a member of the First United Methodist Church for over 60 years. He and his wife were senior youth leaders and he was on PPR committee when the parsonage was built. He was also involved in Sports Boosters for many years.

Marlin enjoyed spending time, making memories with his family, and sharing all of his passions with them. He was an avid ISU tailgater who was known as a wonderful host and stranger to no one, even a Hawkeye fan. Gardening was a life-long love, starting with seed planting in the basement during the winter and extending all season long. He was so proud to share the bounties with all, especially the tomatoes, peppers, and onions. He enjoyed the outdoors (camping, fishing, fires, sitting on the lawn swing, watching the rain, being on the water, and hanging out with his dog Whisper) and passionately following all of his kids and grandkids sporting events, activities and experiences in life. He loved cooking, trying new recipes, and sharing them with others. He was a rare combination of someone who had a love of life and a firm understanding of what was important- the simplicity of living a life with the ones you love.

Marlin had a very competitive nature, was meticulous, and his laughter was infectious. When he did something, he did it with his whole heart. Wherever he went a new friend was made, even if only for the short time they talked. He had a way of making you feel special, like you were the most important person in the room. His humor was one of a kind.

Marlin is survived by his loving wife, Linda, of Clarion. Their children, Cory (Shawn) Klehm of Fairfield, Iowa, Kevin Klehm of Mingo, Iowa, and Christina (Cody) Freeman of Fairfield, Iowa. Grandchildren Corynn, Reese, Brandon, Benjamin, Khai, and Luke. Sister Jerilyn (Robert) Wilburn of Palestine, Texas, and a host of loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and long-time friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

He was an incredible man, full of love and compassion, and so fun to be with. He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Memorials may be made to Gateway Hospice.