Delmont "Dellie" Kloeckner

Delmont "Dellie" Nicholas Kloeckner, age 82, of Albers, peacefully passed away on August 7, 2025, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Breese. Born on March 20, 1943, in Germantown, Illinois, he was the beloved son of John and Mary (Wellinghoff) Kloeckner. Dellie and Geraldine Santel united in marriage at St. Damian Catholic Church on November 22, 1968, and she survives him.

Alongside his devoted wife of 56 years, Dellie is survived by his cherished children: Lyn Kloeckner, Cindy (Rob) Neumann, Chris (Aaron) Toennies, and Jill (Ryan) Voss. His legacy also includes his grandchildren: Alex Neumann and his special friend, Leanne Tang, Julia Neumann; Kaitlyn, Coryn, and Kinley Toennies; and Archer and Alden Voss. He is additionally survived by his brothers, Ray (Joni) Kloeckner and Roman Kloeckner; his brother-in-law, Delmar (Mary) Santel; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Dellie was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Edward Kloeckner, Virginia Kloeckner, Agnes (Paul) Huels, Vince (Kay) Kloeckner, Rosemary (Paul) Loepker, Margie (Ed) Gamboa, Robert "Butter" Kloeckner; and sister-in-law, Doris Kloeckner.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy and dedicated member of St. Bernard Parish in Albers. He was a key supporter of the parish's annual Wurstmart, which he had passionately volunteered for over 35 years, as well as donating pigs. He ensured this event would continue by getting his family actively involved to carry on his legacy.

Dellie’s passion for Mater Dei High School was evident through his constant support of school sports. He earned a place in the Mater Dei Hall of Fame and had a favorite seat at nearly every football, basketball, and volleyball game. He was always ready with coaching advice, whether it was asked for or not. His love of sports extended to coaching and playing in an adult softball league for many years. Though his team disbanded during his Navy service, Dellie made sure to reunite them when he returned, and they continued playing together for years.

His dedication to the community was also notable. Dellie worked to have crossing guard arms installed at three railroad crossings around the county, significantly improving travel safety for local residents. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and served on Community Link’s Board of Directors.

Known for his humor and quick wit, Dellie's lively spirit touched everyone he met. Above all, he was a devoted family man, taking immense joy in attending his family's sporting events and cheering on his grandchildren. Dellie's legacy of love and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Albers, with Fr. Matt Elie and Deacon Glenn Netemeyer officiating. Interment will follow at St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery in Albers with full military honors accorded.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Sunday, August 10, 2025, and from 8:30 to 9:45 AM on Monday, August 11, 2025, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Albers.

Memorials made in memory of Dellie are suggested to the Mater Dei Capital Campaign Fund or St. Bernard’s Capital Campaign Fund. They will be received at church or Nordike Funeral Home, 15 East Hanover Street, New Baden, IL 62265.