August “Gus” J. Klimek

August “Gus” J. Klimek, 85, of Independence, died December 1, 2024, at Gundersen Tri County Hospital, Whitehall.

Gus was born April 9, 1939, on a farm in American Valley in Arcadia, to Thomas and Gertrude (Kujak) Klimek. He graduated from Arcadia High School. Gus married Joan Kokott, and they had three children. He later married Denise Cohen, and they had two children. In 2004, Gus married Angeline “Angie” (Koval) Wiersgalla in Independence, and added five step-children to his family.

Gus attended the University of Minnesota and the University of Colorado, earning a degree in Engineering. He lived in Colorado and was employed by URS Engineering for 45 years. Gus found enjoyment in his work, and it took him all over the country, as well as to many different countries. Gus enjoyed traveling and seeing the many wonders of the world.

In retirement, he loved reading, walking, watching the birds, and playing poker and cribbage. Gus always found beauty in nature and in his surroundings. For many years, he and Angie traveled and spent winters in Laughlin, NV, where they made many ‘snowbird’ friends with people from all over the world.

August is survived by his wife, Angeline; son, David Klimek; daughters: Shelly Kendall, Maria Windt, and Dana Nevill; daughter-in-law, Julie Klimek; children in marriage: Kurt (Jackie) Wiersgalla, Karen Wiersgalla, Lisa (Rick) Nelson, Sandy (Pat) Hermsen, and Mary (Ben) Krall; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, step-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Marge Resler; brother, Tom (friend, Dori Krehler) Klimek; sister-in-law, Lois Klimek; brother-in-law, Frank (Mary Ann) Koval; and many nieces and nephews.

Gus was preceded in death by his previous spouses; parents; son, Mike Klimek; brother, John Klimek; brother-in-law, Len Resler; and many other family members that have passed before him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Independence, officiated by Reverend George Thayikuzhitottu. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery following the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, Gus has requested memorials be given to the Catholic Schools in Independence or Arcadia. To leave an online condolence for his family, please visit www.edison
funeralhome.com.