Cover photo for Harry Klessen's Obituary
Harry Klessen Profile Photo
1933 Harry 2010

Harry Klessen

July 31, 1933 — December 17, 2010

Harry was born to Harold and Viola (Sparks) Klessen on July 31, 1933 in Armour, South Dakota. He grew up in Sioux Falls and and graduated from Washington High School. On May 21, 1954, Harry married the love of his life, Peggy Haas. They marked 56 anniversaries together. He served in the Air Force from 1953 to 1957 and worked as an auto body repairman from that time until 1965. Later that year he began his teaching career at the then-new Lincoln Senior High School. Harry spent the next 29 years inspiring students to work hard and always do their best. He retired in 1993. During his teaching years, Harry studied nights, weekends and summers to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Dakota at Springfield in 1978. Creativity was a hallmark of Harry?s life. He enjoyed writing poems and short stories, some of which were published, but was mainly known for his 40 years of work as an artist and sculptor. Restoring old cars, particularly Mustangs, was another favorite pursuit. Harry was also known as an example of physical fitness, biking alone to Rapid City to celebrate his 60th birthday and competing as an avid runner in short races, half marathons and triathalons over the course of 28 years. We will miss seeing his familiar figure out pounding the pavement on the trails and sidewalks of Sioux Falls. He passed away December 17, 2010 at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls. Grateful for having shared his life are wife, Peggy; son, Kliff (Ursula); daughter, Susan Wedlund (Mark); grandchildren, Danila, Kayla and Jack; as well as extended family and friends. ?When I die, remember that what you knew of me is with you always. What is buried is only the shell of what was. Do not regret the shell but remember the person as the one you knew or loved.? - Harry Klessen

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