Roger Lee Klein

Roger L. Klein, age 74, of Hastings, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Comforts of Home in Hudson, WI.

Roger was born on March 24, 1950, in St. Paul, Nebraska, to Arnold and Dorothy (Hinkle) Klein. He was raised on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work. After graduating from Palmer High School, he joined the U.S. Navy, serving four years during the Vietnam War alongside his three brothers. While in the service, the Klein's met the Ward brothers, who introduced Roger to their sister, Susan. It was love at first sight, and just five months after his discharge, Roger and Susan eloped in Watertown, South Dakota.

Roger was always striving for more, not just for himself but for his family. He and Susan started their life together in Palmer, NE,  where they welcomed their first two children, Brandon and Stacy. Wanting greater opportunities for his family, Roger moved them to Hastings, Minnesota, in 1977, where they later welcomed their third child, Nicholas. His Navy training in boiler maintenance led to a 31-year career at Koch Refinery, where his dedication and work ethic built a strong foundation for his family. He took great pride in how far he had come, knowing his efforts provided a better life for those he loved.

Beyond work, Roger was an avid outdoorsman, passionate about hunting, fishing, and riding motorcycles. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, cutting and stacking wood, taking road trips with Susan, and spending time with his family. Though quiet and reserved, he had a quick wit and a kind heart, always putting others before himself.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Susan Klein; children, Brandon and Stacy (Kevin) Porter; grandchildren, Jacob Nicholas and Emilee Sue Porter; siblings, Pam (Ron) Switzer, Terry (Diane) Klein, and Kevin (Ida) Klein; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Nicholas Klein; and siblings, Danny, Gayland, Ron, Diann, Warren, and Darlene.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be held in both Hastings, Minnesota, and Wolbach, Nebraska, the first one being at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Union Hall, Vermillion, MN. Interment and Military Honors will be on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Hillside Cemetery, Wollbach, NE at 11:00 a.m. with a Celebration of Life at the Wollbach Community Center starting at 12:00 p.m.