Roger Lee Klein

Roger L. Klein, 74, of Hastings, MN, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Comforts of Home in Hudson, WI.

A celebration of Roger’s life was held in Hastings, MN. A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Hillside Cemetery in Wolbach. Vicar Abigail Vetick will officiate. Military honors will be provided by Ray Mapes American Legion Post 236 of Wolbach and the United States Navy Funeral Honors team. The Nebraska American Legion Riders will also be present. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Wolbach Community Center in Wolbach, starting at 12 noon. Peters Funeral Home of St. Paul is assisting the family with local arrangements.

Roger was born on March 24, 1950, in St. Paul, the son of Arnold and Dorothy (Hinkle) Klein. He was raised on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work. After graduating from Palmer High School, he joined the U.S. Navy, serving four years during the Vietnam War alongside his three brothers. While in the service, the Klein’s met the Ward brothers, who introduced Roger to their sister, Susan. It was love at first sight, and just five months after his discharge, Roger and Susan eloped in Watertown, South Dakota.

Roger was always striving for more, not just for himself but for his family. He and Susan started their life together in Palmer, NE, where they welcomed their first two children, Brandon and Stacy. Wanting greater opportunities for his family, Roger moved them to Hastings, MN, in 1977, where they later welcomed their third child, Nicholas. His Navy training in boiler maintenance led to a 31-year career at Koch Refinery, where his dedication and work ethic built a strong foundation for his family. He took great pride in how far he had come, knowing his efforts provided a better life for those he loved.

Beyond work, Roger was an avid outdoorsman, passionate about hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, cutting and stacking wood, taking road trips with Susan, and spending time with his family. Though quiet and reserved he had a quick wit and kind heart, always putting others before himself.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Susan Klein; children, Brandon Klein and Stacy and Kevin Porter all of Hastings, MN; grandchildren, Jacob Nicholas and Emilee Sue Porter; siblings and spouses, Pam & Ron Switzer of St. Paul, Terry and Diane Klein of Grand Island, and Kevin and Ida Klein of St. Libory; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Nicholas Klein; and siblings, Danny, Gayland, Ron, Diann, Warren and Darlene.