Leo Kline

Leo Kline, 96, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away Monday, November 10, 2025, at Avera Mother Joseph Manor.

Leo A. Kline was born on February 1, 1929, to Walter and Elizabeth (Stephan) Kline in Leola, SD. He attended Leola Country School through 8th grade and then worked on his family’s farm in Leola until he was drafted into the Army on July 13, 1951. He served in the Korean War until March 13, 1953, and was honorably discharged shortly after. During his furlough, his sister Loretta introduced him to his bride-to-be, Kathryn Brandt, on October 5, 1953, at one of many dances Leo enjoyed going to with his siblings and friends.

Leo married Kathryn on September 30, 1954, at Aberdeen Sacred Heart Church. Together, they made their home on a farm near Warner, SD, where they raised nine children. Leo was a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa. A hardworking man who always wanted to be a farmer and loved his family and deep Catholic faith. In addition to farming and raising livestock, Leo worked in construction, feed dealerships, farm equipment, and hauling lumber. He retired on May 31, 1997, when he and Kathryn moved to their Aberdeen apartment, where he spent 27 years.

Leo was a member of the Knights of Columbus and regularly attended VA meetings. Leo could always be found at daily Mass, often heading out afterward for breakfast and conversation. Leo prayed the rosary every evening and found great joy in the presence of the little children at church. He cherished any time with his family and grandchildren. He enjoyed church bazaars and never turned down a good polka. Leo was always willing to help his loved ones, usually with a smile and a bit of humor.

Surviving Leo are his three daughters: Nita (Larry) Rauch of Bend, OR, Carol (Ken) Bucholz of Watertown, SD, and Cheryl (Dan) Pitzl of Harrisburg, SD; six sons: Tom Kline of Columbia, SD, Mike (Janett) Kline of Eloy, AZ, Pat Kline of Aberdeen, SD, Jerry (Cheri) Kline of Casa Grande, AZ, Neal (Kris) Kline of Huron, SD, and Mark (Teri) Kline of Aberdeen, SD; one sister, Julianne Haiar of Alexandria, SD; ten grandchildren; two step grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and two step great-grandchildren.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kathryn; two sisters; one brother; and his mother and father-in-law.

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