IN MEMORIAM
EXPANDED EULOGIES
Thomas Klenda
Mass of Christian burial for Thomas James Klenda, 73, who passed away Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, at his home near Tampa, will be celebrated by Father Isaac Coulter at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pilsen.
Rosary will be at 10 a.m. Tom will be laid to rest in Pilsen Cemetery after Mass.
Tom’s family will gather with friends for a visitation from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday Feb. 24, 2023, at the church followed by vigil prayers and Rosary, beginning at 6 p.m.
Tom’s life began Oct. 8, 1949, in Hillsboro, where he was born to Martin B. and Magdalen (Tajchman) Klenda.
Tom graduated from Centre High School and went on to earn business and psychology degrees from what is now Emporia State University.
He was united in marriage to Carol Lukert on Oct. 29, 1988, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend.
Tom was employed by Cargill in Wichita and retired from its soybean plant. He continued to farm and ranch in rural Marion County until his passing.
He was an avid sports fan, enjoying playing sports when he attended Centre High and being on the football squad at Emporia State.
Tom enjoyed a good farm auction and being together with his family whether it was hauling hay or bringing home auction buys.
He was a parishioner of St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pilsen.
Tom is survived by his wife, Carol, of rural Tampa; son Matthew Klenda (and wife Elanor) of Marion; grandsons James, Daniel, and Nolan Klenda; siblings Dr. Martin Klenda (and wife Frannie) of Beloit, Ben Klenda (and wife Mary Lou) of Wichita, Joe Klenda of Wichita, Patrick Klenda of rural Marion, John Klenda (and wife Pam) of McPherson, Mark Klenda of rural Marion, Mike Klenda (and wife Janiece) of La Crosse, Mary Jo Dlabal (and husband Denny) of Manhattan, Sharon Hatfield of Tucson, and Susan Ragole (and husband Joe) of Centerville, Virginia; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother David Klenda.
Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Marion County Home Health in care of the funeral home.
Yazel-Megli Funeral Home is serving the family. Please sign his online guestbook and leave a memory of Tom at www.yazelmeglifh.com.