Jean Ellen Klema

As the trees naturally let go of their leaves on the 10th day of October 2024, so too Jean (Giffin) Klema naturally let go and passed away in her home in Pataskala, Ohio.

Jean was 92 years old. She was raised by her dear maternal grandmother, Jane Headlee in Kirkersville, Ohio. Jean was a graduate of Kirkersville High School in 1949, where she was the homecoming queen her senior year. She was a woman of dignity, firm and unwavering faith, and was passionate about football.

She is survived by her five daughters: Cathy Duncan, Laura Hill, Connie Klema, and the twins Jackie Roudebush, and Julie Gower.

Jean’s husband Jack Klema, of Klema Construction, died in 2004 after 55 years of marriage. Thanks to Jean and Jack’s superhuman hard work, they were committed to fund each of their five daughters’ college education, providing the springboard for their professional careers. Cathy became a nurse and worked for Hospice of Central Ohio before retiring. Her skills guided her sisters in caring for their mother during her final days. Cathy resides in Pataskala, Ohio. Laura became a doctor in clinical psychology, developing and researching a specialized mental health treatment during her 40 year career. She resides in Granville, Ohio. Connie became a realty lawyer and has practiced for 30 years, residing in Pataskala, Ohio. Jackie became a special education teacher and has taught preschoolers and children with special needs for over 25 years. She resides in Alexandria, Ohio. Julie is a librarian at Pataskala Public Library and resides in Pataskala.

Jean is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. She was the “home-base” for her family. She lives on and through her daughters and grandchildren.

Jean did not want a funeral or memorial service. Her daughters have honored her decision. If anyone would like to make a donation in memory of Jean Klema, please donate to The Klema Foundation, 100 Zellers Ln., Pataskala, OH 43062.

The Kirkersville Chapel of Hoskinson Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to care for Jean and her family.