Jean Marie Klein, 77, of Gothenburg, passed away on April 15, 2010, at Hilltop Estates in Gothenburg.

She was born on Sept. 11, 1932, to William and Frances (Benjamin) Whisler at McCook. She grew up in Eustis and graduated from Eustis High School.

Jean was a mother and farm wife. She later moved to Greeley, Colo., were she went to work as a secretary at All State Insurance. She taught Bible Studies, was an Avon representative, and enjoyed crocheting and crossword puzzles. She also volunteered at the Senior Center at the front desk and with bingo. Jean was a faithful listener to KRVN and an avid Husker baseball and football fan. The things she cherished most were the times spent with her family. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy.

Jean is survived by her daughters, Rhonda (Doug) Hill, of Farnam, Debra (Ed) Krone, of Gothenburg, Cynthia (fiancé-Rod Troyer) Klein, of Greeley, Colo.; sons, Doug (Paula) Klein, of Moorefield, Eric (Jolene) Klein, of Greeley, Colo.; sisters, Patricia Schutz, of Elwood, Marcy Koch, of Lincoln; 24 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Peggy Whisler, of Lincoln, Shirley Reiker, of Eustis; along with many nieces, nephews and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Frances Whisler; sister, Nadine Reiker; brother, Thomas Whisler; brothers-in-law, Byron Shutz, Harold Koch and Gilbert Reiker; and special friend, Reckus Franzen.

Visitation will be on Sunday, April 18, from 2-8 p.m., at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel in Gothenburg. Services will be on Monday, April 19, at 11 a.m., at the Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel in Gothenburg with Ned Cooper officiating. Burial will take place at the Eustis Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Church of Christ, 1803 Ave D, Gothenburg, NE 69138. Online condolences can be given at blasestrauser.com.

North Platte Telegraph, 17 April 2010