Virginia Claire Klein, 89, died on Monday, March 3, 2025, at her home outside of Dunlap. She was born on Sept. 15, 1935, on the family farm northwest of Dunlap, to Thomas and Catherine (Murphy) Hanigan. She was the youngest of six children. Virginia went to country school #9 until her First Communion. When she was about eight years of age, the family moved east of Dunlap and she attended St. Joseph Catholic Church. She graduated in 1953. After graduating, Virginia moved to Omaha, Neb. to work at Mutual of Omaha. She moved back to Dunlap and was married to Gerald “Jerry” Klein on April 23, 1955, after his honorable discharge from the United States Army. Jerry and Virginia started farming and they raised their three children on the farm. She remained on the farm until her death. Virginia was a lifelong member of the St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dunlap where she served as a member of the Altar Society and of the Catholic Daughters of America Saint Monica Court # 300.
Virginia cherished the moments spent on family vacations in Okoboji, where laughter and love filled the air, creating memories that live on in the hearts of her loved ones. As winter rolled in, Virginia embraced the warm embrace of Arizona. A woman of many joys, Virginia found great pleasure in the simple delights of life. She was known for her keen love of card games, often inviting friends and family alike to join her in playful competition. Virginia enjoyed watching her favorite basketball and baseball teams on television, cheering them on with unwavering support. Most of all, Virginia loved her family.
Virginia was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and siblings, Marie Houston, John Hanigan, Kathleen Janssen, Margie Brosnahan and Jerry Hanigan. She is survived by her sons, Joe (Jane) Klein of Harlan and Tom (Mary) Klein of Dunlap; daughter, Karen (Tom) Staley of Charter Oak; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dunlap. The Celebrant was Rev. Samuel Danso assisted by Deacon David Klein. The musicians were John Rosman and Rod Carlson. The pallbearers were John Hanigan, Jerry Hanigan, Bill Hanigan, Joseph Klein, Dan Brosnahan and Chad Klein. Virginia’s final resting place is at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Fouts Funeral Home in Dunlap was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
