ROBERT E. KLOTZ SR., 95, was born in his childhood home on August 14, 1928 to the late Clement D. and Francis Christian-Klotz in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He departed his earthly life peacefully at his home on Friday, January 12, 2024 surrounded by his sons and daughters. Robert graduated from Central Catholic High School. He enlisted in the US Army on October 4, 1946 as Private First Class and received honorable discharge on March 3, 1948. He attained a 2-year college building certificate from IPFW. On June 2, 1951 he married his wife, JoAnn M. Keener-Klotz. They were blissfully married for 72 years.

Robert and JoAnn were blessed with 7 (seven) biological children: Robert Klotz Jr., David Klotz, Teresa Klotz, Ann (Doug) Eakright, Michael Klotz, Regina Klotz, Christopher Klotz, including an adopted son in Christ, Jerry Christman, 20 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Robert was preceded in death by his lovely wife JoAnn, son Robert Klotz, Jr., and brothers Bill Klotz John Klotz, Sr., Louis "Lewi" Klotz , Joseph Klotz and James Klotz..

Robert built homes and was an architectural drafter by trade. He enjoyed drafting architect designs on blueprints. In his early years, he was an officer of Klotz Brothers and Arnold, Corp. In later years, he became employed with the Allen County Building Department as a Building Inspector. He retired after 22 years of employment. His Interests included: family vacations, playing golf, fishing, boating, card playing, watching cowboy shows, and singing in St John New Haven Church choir. Robert and JoAnn would faithfully watch The Lawrence Welk Show once a week. Robert's favorite vocalist was Perry Como.

A visitation will be held at 9:30 - 10am am Monday, January 29, 2024 at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St John the Baptist New Haven Catholic Church, 943 Powers St., New Haven, IN 46774. Visitation will also be held 2-4 and 6-8pm Sunday, January 28, 2024 at the funeral home with a Rosary service at 3:30pm.

Burial will be in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne, IN .

Preferred donations to St John the Baptist New Haven Catholic Church. Please make all checks payable to "St John the Baptist NH Church".

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. My Father's house has many rooms; I will come back and take you with me"

~John 14:1-3

BEYOND THE SUNSET

Should you go first and I remain, to walk the road alone, I'll live in memories garden, dear, with happy days we've known.

In spring I'll wait for roses red, when faded, the lilacs blue In early fall when brown leaves fall, I'll catch a glimpse of you.

Should you go first and I remain, for battles to be fought. Each thing you've touched along the way will be a hallowed spot.

I'll hear your voice, I'll see your smile, tho blindly I may grope.

The memory of your helping hand will buoy me on with hope.

Should you go first and I remain, one thing I'll have you do:

Walk slowly down that long long path, for soon I'll follow you.

I want to know each step you take, so I may take the same.

For someday down that lonely road, you'll hear me call your name.