Jeannine Klotz, age 75, of Etna Green, entered eternal life on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, after a five-year battle with cancer. She confronted this fight with inspiring strength and courage. Her unyielding faith was an example to remain positive and joyful even in difficult circumstances.
Jeannine was born into a military family that often moved during her younger years before settling in Warsaw where she graduated in 1966. After high school, she earned her Lab Technicians License and worked at Elkhart Hospital.
Jeannine married Randy Klotz on Aug. 30, 1969, and they raised their four children on the family farm in Etna Green. Living in the country suited Jeannine well: She ran the household, gardened and tirelessly supported the family business.
As the family “chief success officer,” she ensured that her children had every opportunity to excel in their education, sports, personal endeavors and careers.
Jeannine had the heart of a loving and godly servant; she was extremely generous with her time and talents. Blessing others was a daily part of her life.
She was a faithful and active member of Camp Creek Church of the Brethren, serving in many capacities through the years: Ladies Aid, Program Committee, Sunday school teacher, VBS and MOMs group. She had a passion for teaching children about the Bible, God’s love and His offer of salvation.
Being the daughter of an Army officer, Jeannine had great respect for all who served in our military. She loved this nation and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Jeannine loved to sew, and as she said, “It simply makes my heart smile.” She spent countless hours making beautiful creations, usually with a special recipient in mind. Jeannine enjoyed being a member of Calico Point Sewing Club in Goshen.
Jeannine was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Grace Vaccaro; sister, Diane Brown; father-in-law, Willard Klotz; and stepmother, Elinor Vaccaro.
She is survived by her husband of over 54 years, Randy Klotz, of Etna Green; mother-in-law, Deloris Klotz, of Elkhart; and her four children: Conrad (Missy) Klotz, of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.; Katrina (Pete) MacDonald, of Carlsbad, Calif.; Jacob Klotz, of Nappanee; and Lori (Jerami) Huff, of Nappanee; grandchildren: Brady Klotz, Natalie (Adam) Sidler, Cole Huff and Jace Huff; siblings: Charlie (Felicia) Vaccaro, Bob (Sally) Vaccaro, Fran (Tim) Fleagle, Denise (Mike) Wack, Frank Vaccaro Jr.; brother and sister-in-law, Kent and Dana Klotz. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews who lovingly called her Aunt Nene.
Jeannine adored her family and loved them well!
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, as well as Saturday, Dec. 9 from 1 to 2 p.m. before a 2 p.m. funeral service at Camp Creek Church of the Brethren, Etna Green. David Stackhouse and Roger Stuart will officiate with graveside services to follow at Union Center Cemetery, Nappanee.
Instead of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Camp Creek Church.