Edward L. Kleese Sr., age 85, of Washington, Iowa, died Saturday, January 1, 2022, at his residence under the care of Hospice Compassus.

Celebration of life services will be held from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. Sunday, February 27, 2022, in Dallmeyer Hall at the Washington County Fairgrounds. A general memorial has been established. The Jones & Eden Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangments. Online condolences may be sent for the family through the web at www.jonesfh.com .

Ed was born September 30, 1936, in Washington, Iowa, the son of Isaac and Letha (Moore) Kleese. He grew up in the Titus Community west of Washington. He attended school in West Chester, Iowa, graduating from high school in 1955. He was united in marriage to Linda Crossett on October 31, 1958, in Washington, Iowa.

Ed worked as a farmhand for many local farmers. He worked at Northrup King Seed Company for 15 years and lastly worked at Walmart. He served honorably in the United States Army. Ed loved talking to people and did not know a stranger. Following his retirement he enjoyed watching the grandkids and playing checkers with them.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Kleese of Washington, Iowa; son, Ed Kleese Jr. of Washington, Iowa; son, Mark Kleese and wife Debra of Washington, Iowa; nine grandchildren: Chad (Makyla) Pepper and their children Cashden, Ryen, and Teague; Richelle (Marcus) Slaymaker and children Layton and Liza; Kassi Klinzman and her children Amari and Hannah; Bobbi Jo Bigalk; Brandi Dawson and her son Liam; Issak Kleese and girlfriend Sam Fistler; Jeremy (Kayla) Kleese and their children Bailey, Blaine and Brynleigh; Travis Kleese; and Brandon Kleese. Ed is also survived by one sister, Mary Jo Norris of Rockwall, Texas.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Richard Kleese; and one sister, Betty Turnipseed.