Gretta Lea Kling

Gretta Lea Kling (née Speer), born on the 16th of June, 1935, in Howard, Kansas, passed away on the 19th of April, 2024, at the venerable age of 88, at home in Spartanburg, SC.  Her journey through life was marked by a steadfast commitment to education, faith, and family, values that she held dear until her last moments.

 Gretta grew up on a farm near Howard with her parents and two sisters.  She loved drawing, reading, and riding horses.  After graduating high school, Gretta attended Coffeyville College and taught in a small country school.  She married Verne Leroy Kling, of Howard, in 1956.

She earned a B.A. in Elementary Education from Southwestern College.  As an elementary school teacher, Gretta dedicated over twenty-five years to the development of young minds. Her unwavering dedication to her students left an indelible mark on the many lives she touched.

Gretta's Christian faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She was an active member of Grandview United Methodist Church in Dubuque, Iowa, for over four decades. Her roles within the church were numerous and included leading as president of the United Methodist Women, working on mission trips, and guiding Bible study.

Gretta enjoyed many activities in retirement such as golf, walking, bike riding, doing word puzzles, and making greeting cards.  She also volunteered her time as a mentor to elementary students and was an officer in the Dubuque Area Retired School Personnel Association. Alongside her husband Verne, she traveled extensively, visiting friends and family around the U.S.  Verne and Gretta hosted visitors and traveled abroad: fostering international friendships through the Dubuque Friendship Force.  Favorite trips included Austria, Chile, and South Korea.

Gretta's legacy lives on through her children: Karen Kling Elder (Brian) of Leonia, N Karlene Kling Fenderson (Brent) of Spartanburg, SC; and Kevin Da Nam Kling (Juliana) of San Antonio, TX. She was cherished by her grandchildren, step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and step-great-grandchildren.

She joins in eternal rest her husband, Verne L. Kling; her sisters, Audrey and Peggy; and her parents, Bert and Mabel Speer, who preceded her in passing.

In keeping with Gretta's wishes, no services will be held at this time.  Interment will be at Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard, KS.  Instead, her life will be celebrated privately by family and friends, who will honor her memory through acts of kindness and service, reflecting the generous spirit she embodied throughout her life.

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