Frank Klaes

Frank Klaes of Plymouth and Bellaire, Michigan passed away November 23, 2017 at the age of 90. He was born in New Boston, Michigan to Frank and Philomena Klaes on January 12, 1927. Frank is survived by his loving children Kathy (the late Dale) Klaes, Jerry (Deb) Klaes, daughter-in-law Christy Klaes, Mary (Del) Templeton, Ann (Stan) Wisniewski, Jim (Jeanne) Klaes, Pete (Lisa) Klaes, Jane Klaes, and Heidi (Ian) Shuff, his 20 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and his siblings Mary Ann (Alden) Bodary, Polly (Frank) Wagner, and Leo (Jean) Klaes. Frank was preceded in death by his wife Patricia and his second wife Estelle, his son Dan, both of his parents, and his brother Jerry.

Frank joined the United States Navy when he was just 17 years old where he served in World War II. He returned home from service and went on to get his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Detroit. Frank then married his beloved Patricia and together they had 9 wonderful children.

Frank went on to own his own business, Engel-Klaes Co., in Southfield, Michigan. He worked there until he retired to Bellaire at the age of 74. He then married Estelle McNeff and his family grew with two loving step-children, Jim and Kathy. Some of his greatest memories were times spent in Bellaire on the lake with friends and family, where he enjoyed regular Friday visits to Ruthie’s for an ice cream cone.

Frank was a man of great faith. He was very active in all the parishes of which he was a member. He also volunteered his time to help out many charities that were dear to him. Frank supported and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and St. Vincent de Paul Society. He was also an active member with the Bellaire Lions Club.

Visitation will be Wednesday, November 29, from 4-8pm and Thursday, November 30, from 2-8pm with a Rosary at 7pm at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 S. Main St., Plymouth, 48170. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, December 1, at 10:30am at St. Kenneth Catholic Church, 14951 Haggerty Road, Plymouth, 48170. Family and friends may begin visiting the Church at 10am. Immediately following the funeral, there will be a luncheon held at the parish social hall where there will be an open microphone for guests to share stories. Memorial donations in Frank’s memory may be made to Habitat for Humanity or the Maryknoll Missionaries.