Emma Kleinknecht

Emma Kleinknecht, 94, Jamestown, ND passed away Saturday December 16, 2023 at Eventide @ Hi-Acres surrounded by her family.

Emma was born March 1, 1929 in Hillsview, SD, the daughter of George and Karolina (Guthmiller) Ketterling. She attended school by Long Lake and Leola, SD where she received her elementary education.

She and Emil Kleinknecht were married April 29, 1951 at his brother’s farm NW of Gackle, ND. They made their home on his farm until 1958 when they moved into Jamestown where she worked at the ND State Hospital for 37 years. She retired in 1995. Following the death of her husband January 8, 1990, she continued to reside in Jamestown.

Emma was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. She shared fond memories of Saturday night’s dancing with Emil at the Eagles Club, enjoying weekly Sunday brunches, Tuesday coffee with the ladies and always up for playing cards with family.

She is survived by 3 daughters, Diane (Clifford) Erickson, Violet Schauer, both of Jamestown, ND, Nettie (Sarge) Schuler, Fargo, ND; 5 sons, Raymond Kleinknecht; Roger Kleinknecht, Charles Kleinknecht, Larry (Paula) Kleinknecht, all of Jamestown, ND, Glen (Connie) Kleinknecht Mesa, AZ; 23 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, 4 sisters, (Esther, Clara, Anna, Margaret), 3 brothers, (Ernest, George, Martin), 1 grandchild, and 1 great grandchild.