1928 – James Clair Klingbeil – 2016 
James Klingbeil was born on July 22, 1928 on the family homestead south of Slayton, Minnesota to Clarence and Clara Meisenhelder Klingbeil. He grew up on the farm and attended Slayton High School. On November 29, 1952 he and Yvonne McFarland were married at the Hoiland Lutheran Church in rural Garvin, Minnesota. On December 10, 1952 James was drafted into the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge on December 15, 1953 he returned to Slayton where he and Yvonne worked the family homestead, in partnership with his parents. In 1959 they moved into Slayton but James continued farming until 1980. James then set up a small engine repair shop in Slayton. Yvonne passed away on June 22, 2010. James remained in their home and continued with his engine repair shop. James passed away on Wednesday, August 10, 2016 at his home in Slayton at the age of 88. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Slayton. James enjoyed spending time with his family, his cat Shadow, traveling, taking photographs, car races, remote controlled models, and touring the countryside.
Survivors include his three children and their spouses: William and Barbara Klingbeil, Brooklyn Park, MN, Doug Klingbeil and Mary Bigot, Niwot, CO, and Philip and Caryn Klingbeil, Lakeville, MN; one granddaughter Andrea McLaughlin and her husband Dan and two great-granddaughters: Abigail and Isabella McLaughlin. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Yvonne and son David Klingbeil.
Funeral services were held at Totzke Funeral Chapel in Slayton, MN on Monday, August 15, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Ted Kunze officiating. Interment is at Slayton Memorial Gardens, Slayton, MN. Totzke Funeral Home of Slayton was entrusted with arrangements. To send condolences visit totzkefuneralhome.com
