James E. Klein, 74, Owatonna
James E. Klein, also known as Jim, Gray Cloud, Dad, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa passed away on April 26, 2024, at Timberdale Trace in Owatonna, MN, after a 5-year battle with Alzheimer’s.
Jim was born on August 13, 1949, in Minneapolis, MN, to parents Rose Husmann Klein and Alfred Klein. The family moved to Staples, MN, in 1953 and Jim attended Staples Public Schools eventually graduating from Staples High School in 1967. Later, Jim attended Staples Vocational School. He graduated from St. Cloud State College, St. Cloud, MN with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology in 1973. On August 30, 1969, he married Sharon Mickelsen. They would have celebrated 55 years together this year.
Jim worked at Glenwood Technical School, Glenwood, MN, prior to moving to New Hope, MN. While living in New Hope he worked at White Motors. In 1976, Jim and Sharon moved to Owatonna and that is where they have resided since. Jim worked as an Industrial Engineer at Jostens and OTC (Power Team), before starting his own business; Pits Metal Treating, from which he retired in 2004.
Jim enjoyed working in his shop, whether he was building something, tinkering, or creating. He was a hoarder and loved to collect LP records and CD’s. He loved 60’s and 70’s music, writing notes on any scrap of paper, and doodling. Jim was a 10-year member of AA.
Jim is survived by his wife Sharon, children: Mike (Karen) Klein, Tim Klein, and Julie Klein Jacobs (Ted Earl). He was grandpa to Cameron (Marisa) Jacobs, Taylor (Jade) Jacobs, Collin Jacobs, Patrick (Sydney) Klein and Blake Klein; great grandpa to Adon, Jasper, Elliott, and Lincoln; sister JoAnne Schmidt; brother-in-law Robert Mickelsen; and many nieces and nephews.
Family members preceding Jim in death include his parents, Al and Rose Klein; parents-in-law Elmer and Florence Mickelsen; brother Jerry Klein; brother-in-law Everett Schmidt and sister-in-law Lavelle Mickelsen.
Friends may greet the family from 5:00-7:00 PM Monday, May 6, 2024, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home (1603 Austin Rd, Owatonna) and one hour prior to the Mass at church. Memorial service will be 11:00 AM, Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (810 South Cedar Avenue, Owatonna) with Monsignor Thomas Cook presiding. For more information or to leave an online condolence, message go to www.megercares.com.