Francis Andrew Kleckner

Francis Andrew Kleckner, 75, of rural Muscoda, passed away peacefully at home with the love of his life, Genni holding his hand and surrounded by love on Monday, July 13, 2026. He was born on February 19, 1951, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin the son of Fred and Evelyn (Roden) Kleckner. Francis married Genni Saviano on September 26, 1981, in Ingram, Wisconsin. Francis grew up in rural Ingram, WI. He spent many summers helping his sister Janet working on their family dairy farm along with their children, operated by her and Cy. It was there that he developed the qualities that would define him throughout his life—kindness, work ethic, humor, and a remarkable gift for math. After graduating from Flambeau High School, he attended college in Superior, WI. He began his career at Pope & Talbot Paper Mill in Ladysmith. Francis married Genni on September 26, 1981, beginning a partnership rooted in love, loyalty, laughter, and shared projects. Together they had 2 children, John and Jake, and Francis was a father known for his guidance, playful spirit, and steady presence. When the paper mill closed their doors Francis attended Indian Head Technical College for Architectural Commercial Design, a path that brought him to Richland County in 1994. There, he and Genni built their family home in the driftless region, raising their children and nurturing the floral passion that became part of their family identity. He spent the remainder of his working years at Cardinal Glass CG in Spring Green, where he was respected for his integrity, craftsmanship, leadership, and reliability. He believed deeply in working hard, staying humble, and continuing forward even when life didn’t go as planned. Outside of work, Francis found joy in gardening, fishing, hunting, and trapping with his cousin LeRoy (Faye). He cherished deer hunting season with John and Jake, returning to the same tree year after year. He was happiest outdoors or surrounded by friends and family—laughing, storytelling, and offering generosity that was as natural to him as breathing. He adored his grandchildren—Grace, Jackson, Julian, and Jordan—attending concerts, sporting events, and anything they were involved in. He was, without question, the most loving grandfather, and his absence will be felt deeply by each of them. Francis dedicated over 25 years to the Wisconsin Daylily Society where he made several very good friends and served as a charter member of the Buena Vista Lions Club. He believed in helping others quietly, without recognition. Survivors include his wife Genni of rural Muscoda; 2 sons, John (Katie McKinney) Kleckner of Richland Center, Jake (Katie) Kleckner of Gotham; 4 grandchildren, Jackson, Julian, Jordan, and Grace McKinney. He is also survived by his nieces Terry (Dean) Nelson, Elizabeth Ziegler, Patti Gorka and Kathy (Ed) Ziegler along with nephews Michael (Doris) Ziegler, Arlen (Mona) Ziegler and Paul Ziegler. Lifelong friend Johnny Kennedy (Janet) and other relatives and friends. Foster brother Keith (Karen) Crye. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Janet Ziegler, brother-in-law Cy Ziegler, Cousins LeRoy &Faye McGary, Cousin Billy & Val McGary. Above all, Francis leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, devotion, humor, and a signature streak of sarcasm. His lessons, presence, and spirit will continue to guide all who loved him. A celebration of Francis’s life will be held at a later date. The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Buena Vista Lions Club, PO box 53, Gotham WI. 53540 earmarked for playground equipment or Richland Center Youth Baseball/ Softball (RCYBS) to 936 N. Church St. Richland Center, WI 53581 for dugout repairs, general field repairs or additional benched seating. www.clarymemorialfuneralhome.com

Francis Andrew Kleckner

February 19, 1951 - July 13, 2026