John Klenk
John F. Klenk, 84, died March 11, 2004, at his home in Overland Park.
Born in Floris, Okla., he was the youngest of eight children. He grew up in Chase County, and joined the Civilian Conservation Corps when he was 16. He served in the U.S. Navy for six years, achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
He farmed in Nemaha County, where he served as township trustee and vice president of the county farmers union.
He was employed at the Shawnee Mission Post Office, where he worked for 23 years before his retirement in 1979.
His hobbies included fishing, hunting, and gardening. He was an avid beekeeper for many years and served terms as president and treasurer of the Northeastern Beekeepers Association. In 1986, he was named "beekeeper of the year."
Survivors include his wife, Virginia; children, Linda and Ron Drabik and Jim and Yvette Erny; a sister, Sue Ehrlich of Marion; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 1 p.m. Monday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Shawnee. Burial was in Resurrection Cemetery.
A memorial fund has been established with Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Overland Park.
