Richard LeRoy Klaus

Richard LeRoy Klaus, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away on September 9, 2024, at the age of 98. He was born on August 5, 1926, to Rev. LeRoy H. and Dollie M. Klaus.  In 1944 he graduated from Northfield High School and served in the United States Navy during World War II as an Aviation Ordnanceman, Third Class.

Richard attended Hamline University in St. Paul. There he met Shirlie Alice Mansergh, who became his beloved wife in August 1948. He was a proud member of the 1949 national champion Piper basketball team.

Richard graduated with a B.A. in Psychology, Health and Physical Education in 1950. He received his M.A. in Elementary Administration from the University of Minnesota in 1956. He served 27 years in North St. Paul-Maplewood District 622 as an elementary school principal and the Director of Elementary School Education.

Richard provided decades of volunteer service to Hamline University in numerous positions and the City of Roseville on the Arboretum Advisory Board and Central Park Foundation. His volunteer service extended to his churches, serving in governing roles and singing in choir, including the men’s quartet until the age of 93. Richard traveled extensively, including all 50 states and many foreign destinations. He most enjoyed traveling to England and Germany to work on family genealogy, a favorite hobby of his.

Richard is survived by his children Kimberlee A. Klaus and Kendall L. Klaus, 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Shirlie and his parents. Memorials designated to the Shirlie Mansergh Klaus and Richard L. Klaus Scholarship at Hamline University or personal choice.

His life will be celebrated on Monday, October 7 with visitation 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Centennial United Methodist Church-Roseville Campus, 1524 County Rd. C2 W., followed by a memorial service to celebrate Richard's life at 11:30 a.m. Reception to follow. Private interment at Roselawn Cemetery.