LaBelle L. Klug, age 84, of Merrill, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2019 at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, while under the care of Ministry Home Care Hospice. She was born on July 30, 1934 to the late Erwin R. and Esther C. (Luedtke) Kniess in Merrill. LaBelle attended grade school in Greendale, WI and high school in Merrill. She married the love of her life, David Robert Klug, on August 23, 1952 in Gleason, WI. Sadly, he preceded her in death on April 26, 1990. LaBelle worked in the retail industry in the sales department at a variety of jobs, whether it was in a clothing store, deli or a bookstore, she really enjoyed helping people and visiting with customers, she was able to strike up a conversation with anyone & they would become fast friends. LaBelle also worked at the McClellan’s 5&10 store as an accountant, as well as H&R Block. When she was younger, LaBelle would enjoy bowling and was part of the Gleason Bowling League. She looked forward to playing cards with family and friends, especially Sheephead, 500, Cribbage and Pinochle. LaBelle was an excellent cook and baker and would enjoy hosting family gatherings. She was an avid Milwaukee Brewers fan. LaBelle was a strong woman, both physically and mentally. She was very kind-hearted and caring and never complained about anything. LaBelle cherished her family and adored her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She is described by many as an inspiration to everyone around her, always positive and cheerful. LaBelle had a strong faith in God and would make that a part of her everyday life. She was a member at St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill. Labelle was a very social person and looked forward to volunteering with the ladies aid at church. She had a love for knitting, crocheting and sewing and would enjoy making items for her family and friends. She will be sadly missed.
LaBelle is survived by her children: Dale (Elena) Klug of Merrill, Mark Klug of Mosinee, Matthew (Keri) Klug of Weston and Susan (Mario Chavez Echevarria) Klug of Vilcabamba, Loja, Ecuador, 11 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 6 great great grandchildren, sister: Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Jahns of Merrill, brothers: Daniel (Judi) Kniess, Everett (Darlene) Kniess and Ervester Kniess, all of Gleason, brother-in-law: Timothy (Barb) Klug of Oshkosh and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband: David Robert Klug.
The Funeral Service for LaBelle will be held on Friday, July 26, 2019 at 11am at St. John Lutheran Church in Merrill. Pastor Matthew Bless will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2019 from 4pm-8pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill, and again on Friday, July 26, 2019 from 10am until the time of the service, at the church. Burial will take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery immediately following the service. Family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in LaBelle’s name be directed to St. John Lutheran Church. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.