John E. Klaus, Jr.

John E. Klaus, Jr., 73, of Belleville, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and friends on Thursday August 14, 2025, in Belleville, IL. John was born on April 8, 1952, in East St. Louis, IL to John and Frances (Gaona) Klaus and his parents precede him in death. He was also preceded in death by his siblings who passed away in infancy; Chip Klaus and Mary Klaus; his in-laws, Elmer and Alby Ross; his sister-in-law, Nancy Ross and several aunts and uncles.

John grew up in East St. Louis, IL and graduated from O’Fallon Township High School, class of 1970. He then briefly attended Belleville Area College before enlisting in the United States Air Force. John bravely served his country during the Vietnam Era. Upon his return to civilian life, he completed his associate’s degree in criminal justice. John then began working as a respiratory therapist and EMT, having been trained for both while on active duty. Later, he would enter law enforcement with the Federal Protective Services which was absorbed into the Department of Homeland Security following the events of 9/11, until his retirement. Post-retirement, John worked part time for the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department as a court bailiff and deputy sheriff.

John served as Commander of the Millstadt American Legion Post 502 for several years. He was an active member of Concordia United Church of Christ and was a member of the Concordia UCC Men’s group where he participated tirelessly in many community outreach projects. John loved camping, hunting and fishing-especially fishing with his daughter, Cari. He was an avid gun collector and licensed concealed carry instructor. He was a member of the Millstadt Sportsman’s Club and the St. Clair County Anglers. In his spare time, he loved a good yard sale and was known as an expert bargainer. John will be remembered most of all as a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and dear friend of many. John was someone who could always be counted on and he will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Left to cherish his memory is his dear wife, Darla Klaus, nee Ross, whom he married on October 3, 1981; his beloved daughter, Cari Klaus; his bonus daughter, Elisabeth Benavidez; his brothers, Harry (Donna) Klaus and Mark (Shantell) Klaus; his nephews, Charlie (Cameron) Klaus, Tyler Klaus and Brandon Ramirez; his aunt Alice (Joe) Garcia, extended family and many beloved friends.

Visitation will be held on Sunday August 17, 2025, from 4:00pm-7:00pm at Hoffen Funeral Home, 220 W. Washington St., Millstadt, IL and again on Monday August 18, 2025, from 10:00am-11:00am at the funeral home. The funeral service will be held at 11:00am with Pastor David Krueger, officiating. John will be laid to rest with full military honors at Lakeview Cemetery in Fairview Heights, IL following the funeral service.

Memorial contributions in memory of John E. Klaus, Jr. may be directed to Concordia United Church of Christ and will be collected at the funeral home.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.