Richard L. Kleckler

Dick Kleckler, age 87, of Dakota, Illinois (formerly of Rock City) passed away on Monday afternoon, July 20 2026 at Freeport Hospital.

Born September 2nd 1938 to Glen and Dorothy Kleckler on the family farm near McConnell, Illinois .

After graduating Winslow High School in 1956 he attended University of Illinois for two years. He then joined the Army where he served in Germany as a Military Police Officer.

Returning home, he married his high school sweetheart Patricia Crouse November 25, 1960.

They were married 35 years until her passing in 1995. In that same year he retired from the State Bank of Davis after serving 25 years as the President where he made several strong connections with the community.

On February 6, 1999 he married Linda Kruger of Dakota. Together they spent many years traveling on their Goldwing motorcycle in the summer and their motorhome in the winter.

He was known for his good judge of character, his unique sense of humor and giving people a hard time.

He loved to play euchre. If you could beat him, you had good cards and he didn’t - even then he had the advantage.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Pat, son Jeffrey, brother Jerry and his beloved dog Minnie that liked no one but him.

Survived by wife Linda, sons Mark (Marcone) Kleckler, Joel (Sandy) Kleckler, Chris Kruger, Bill (April) Kruger, brother Duane (Sharon) Kleckler.

Grandchildren Sarah (Matt), Autumn, Keith, Megan (Tim), Michelle (Zach), Molly, and Nathan.

Great grandchildren Hazel, Micah, Naomi, Claire, Isaiah, and Roman.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been designated in his name.  Private family services are to be held.