Joseph John Klein

“Jay,” “JJK,” Jay’s Sales & Service, Joseph John Klein, a lifetime resident of Fredonia, Wis., born July 4, 1931, passed away peacefully Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in the comfort of care at Harbor Campus, Port Washington, Wis. Joe was 94 years old.

Drafted into military service in 1951, Joe served alongside his fellow Marines during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in December 1953.

While serving his country, Joe received training in electronics, which he in turn used to launch his own business. Jay’s Sales & Service was established in 1960 and was an honorable part of the growing community for more than 35 years until Joe “officially” retired in 1996.

He married Marilyn Clara Paulus in November 1957. Together Joe and Marilyn raised a family of four daughters and one son in a loving home built on North Wilson Street, where Joe continued to live until the age of 93.

Joe loved history. Much of his life and the lives of his children and grandchildren are narrated through an extensive collection of slides and photographs. He had “vim, vigor and vitality.” 

Among the many special things about Joe was his resourcefulness. Joe could build or customize just about anything using nothing more than some scrap materials and tools he had on hand. The family tree house, homemade skating rink in the backyard, custom frames for our “artwork,” creative landscaping with old railroad ties — all testaments to his skills. He would refurbish things most people would cast aside as junk and watch them last another 25-plus years. His thought process was always, “It’s got plenty of life left” or “I can fix that.”

Joe was committed to his community and knew just about everyone. He was always willing to lend a hand. He was a proud member of American Legion Post 410 for more than 70 years, a volunteer firefighter, Village Board member, active member of Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church and a compassionate caretaker for his rental properties in downtown Fredonia. 

He had the privilege of participating in the Honor Flight program on Oct. 11, 2014.

Joe was preceded in death by his son, Cpl. James Joseph Klein (1983), his wife Marilyn C. Klein (Paulus; 2001) and special friend Elaine Brunner (2025). 

He is survived by his daughters Judie Klein (Doug Duitman), Bonnie Klein (Nic Burmesch), Mary Klein (Kurt Nelson) and AJ (Amy Jo) Klein (Kevin Kleinosowski) and six grandchildren, Michael Burmesch, Brian Burmesch, Andy Burmesch, Sarah Burmesch, Reid Nelson and Ryan Nelson.

A celebration of Joe’s wonderful life will be held at Holy Cross Chapel in Belgium, Wis., Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. with a Mass to follow at 6 p.m. 

Burial will take place during a private ceremony at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Cemetery the morning of Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, where his body will be laid to rest alongside his wife and son.

Thank you for taking time with us to reflect on the wonderful impact Joe’s life had on all who knew him.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.