Arthur David Klaus "JR"

Arthur David Klaus “Jr.”, 86, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Oak Ridge Care Center. Born in Racine, Wisconsin, on January 7, 1940, to the late Arthur and Stella (nee: Kuklinski), Art built a life defined by hard work, devotion, and deep pride in the family he raised, as well as the time he cherished at the family cabin in Montello, WI.

Art was known for his tireless work ethic and commitment to his trade. What mattered most to him was not only the work he completed, but the knowledge he passed on. He took great pride in teaching his wife, daughters, sons‑in‑law, and grandchildren the skills he had mastered; whether driving a dump truck, operating heavy equipment, changing a tire, or clearing snow. His patience, guidance, and hands‑on lessons became treasured family memories.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose quiet strength and steady presence shaped the lives of those he loved. Art was also a proud member of Operating Engineers Local Union 139.

Art is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Genevieve; daughters Kim (Mike) Bower, Karen (Terrance) O’Brien, and Kathy (Mike) Wurster; grandchildren Adam (Cindi) Hauser, Amanda Hauser, Douglas and Jennifer Boeselager, Daniel (Darien) Schaefer, David Schaefer, Anthony (Jackie) Wurster, and Ryan (Mallory) Wurster; seven great‑grandchildren; sister‑in‑law Cathy Klaus; niece Sarah (Craig) Luedtke; and nephews Mathew (Amy) Klaus and Robert (fiancé Liz) Klaus

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Maresh‑Meredith and Acklam Funeral Home on Friday, February 13, 2026, for a celebration of Art’s life. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., with a service immediately following. In honor of Art—who preferred flannel shirts and jeans over formal attire—casual wear is encouraged.

Art’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Robert Gullberg, MD, Dr. Michael Papp, DO, the staff at Ascension Hospital, and the staff at Oak Ridge Care Center for the compassionate care provided during his end‑of‑life journey.

Suggested memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers (t2t.org) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).