Obituary of John Emil Kluesner

John E. Kluesner: A Legacy of Love, Hard Work, and Devotion

John E. Kluesner, 69, of Manchester, Iowa passed away peacefully at his home on May 8, 2023. 

Born on December 12, 1953 to Francis and Mary Jane (Pins) Kluesner in Dubuque, Iowa John spent his early childhood years in the Edgewood & Colesburg area, before eventually settling in New Vienna, Iowa. 

John graduated from Beckman High School, where he earned the nickname "Buford". He went on to play college football for one season before realizing he didn’t enjoy being broke so he returned home to go back to work for F.L. Krapfl Construction. Then, together with his brother Joe, he began farming until he branched out on his own. His lifelong passion for agriculture and a strong work ethic guided him throughout his life. 

On October 2, 1999, John married the love of his life, Cindy (Loeffelholz Silva) Kluesner. Together, they created a beautiful blended family, consisting of John's four daughters, Jennifer (Ryne) Strum, Jaclyn (Scott Wootton) Kluesner Peyton, Jamee (Nate) Kramer, and Justine (Marc) Benavidez; and three step-sons, Peter (Angela) Silva, Kyle (Jenni) Silva, and Mitchell Silva. John's dedication to his family was unparalleled, and he took great joy in spending time with his loved ones, whether it was boating, driving around the countryside, or taking his grandchildren on skid loader rides. John built a reputation as a hardworking and innovative farmer, starting several successful ventures, including Kluesner Custom Chopping and Kluesner Feeders.

A devout Catholic, John lived by the saying, "Life is easy if you do the right thing." He was a staunch advocate for young farmers and was always looking toward the future, adapting to new technology and embracing change. Despite the many challenges and hardships that came with farming, John's unwavering optimism and positivity never faltered. He believed that when one door closes, five more open, and he approached life with this hopeful perspective.

In addition to his love for farming and family, John enjoyed surprising his wife with trips and creating lasting memories. A true family man, John's devotion to his loved ones was evident in everything he did.

John is survived by his wife and blended family; six cherished grandchildren: Clark and Isla Strum, Jack and Juliana Peyton, Henry and Abigail Kramer; mother, Mary Jane Kluesner; siblings: Richard (Ann) Kluesner, Julie (Tom) Vonderhaar, Barbara (Tom) Campbell, and Steve Kluesner; parents-in-law, Edwin and Jo Ann Loeffelholz; and in-laws: Sue Kluesner, Alan (Margi) Loeffelholz, Mike (Donna) Loeffelholz, Dan (Deb) Loeffelholz, Karl (Kim) Loeffelholz, and Jeff (Mary) Loeffelholz.

He is preceded in death by his father, Francis Kluesner, brother, Joe Kluesner, and several aunts and uncles.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Eric Engelman, Oncology (MercyOne Dubuque), Dr. Natalie Callendar, Multiple Myeloma Oncology Specialist (UW Madison), and to their staff for the compassionate care and support over the past nine years. Thank you also to St. Croix Hospice Care, as well as our family and friends for your continued support. .

John E. Kluesner's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, as a testament to a life well-lived and the values he held dear. In his honor, let us continue to support young farmers and embrace the lessons he taught us: to always do the right thing, remain optimistic, and cherish the time spent with family.