Paul "Pete" Klemme

CLERGY
Rev. David W. Ellis
MUSIC
Organist ~ Sharon Orth
Congregational Hymns
“Amazing Grace”
“Just As I Am, Without One Plea”
“Nearer, My God, to Thee”
CASKETBEARERS
George Bauder
Ryan Bauder
Chris Konrad
Ken Konrad
Clay Wittmeier
Lee Wittmeier
Paul “Pete” Klemme was born on December 10, 1918 to Arthur & Ida (Treick) Klemme in Scotland, South Dakota. His religious journey began with his baptism at Bethany Reformed Church, where he was also confirmed. He attended Nelles Country School and Scotland High School.  He grew up on the family farm near Kaylor, South Dakota. On September 6, 1941 Pete was united in marriage to Esther Bietz at Parker, South Dakota. They proudly raised shorthorn cattle which they truly spoiled.  Never was there a stray dog that was not taken in at the Klemme farm. Having lived thru the hard times of the 30’s, weather was always a main concern. All of his life he looked to the west to see if the rain clouds would reach us in time. After a storm we knew the phone would ring, and Grandpa Pete would be checking on the rain totals.  He was often found with friends and neighbors playing card games, especially Whist. Even at the age of 94, he still took part in Bible study and bingo.
He loved being a part of his grandchildren’s lives.  Grandma and Grandpa Pete would always take them fishing at the river, and he offered his advice while waiting for the big one. He enjoyed seeing his great grandchildren.
Pete passed away on January 28, 2013 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital. Pete is survived by his two daughters:  Gay Lynn (Ken) Konrad of Kaylor and Paula (George) Bauder of Scotland; three grandchildren: Chris (Kristi) Konrad of Mitchell, Cheri (Lee) Wittmeier of Tyndall, and Ryan (Kelli) Bauder of Scotland; and four great grandchildren: Clay and Lacey Wittmeier; Morgan and Marty Bauder.
In addition to his parents, Pete was preceded in death by his wife Esther, in October 2011, brother Elmer (Ella) Klemme, sisters Ruth Klemme, Lola (Otto) Jenner, Alice Klemme, and nephew Allen Klemme.