Lola Mae Klein, 101, died peacefully on Oct. 3, 2025, in Pella. During her final days, she looked forward to the joyful journey to her heavenly home.
Lola was preceded in death by her parents Louis and Henrietta Jansen; and her siblings Harris Jansen, Wayne Jansen, Dale Jansen, Lowell Jansen, and Norma Bartlow. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 55 years Earl Wayne Klein and two of her children, Norman Klein and Beverly Klein Peckous.
Lola grew up in the Sully area and attended local schools. At a young age, she developed a love for music and began taking piano lessons. She continued playing the piano all her life, even as recently as a few weeks ago along with her hospice musical therapist. Lola’s “signature song” that she loved to play was “When They Ring Those Golden Bells.” She passed her love of music to all three children. Lola also enjoyed playing the accordion.
Lola attended Northwest Bible and Music Academy as a young lady where she met many friends and enjoyed musical opportunities. She was drawn back to Iowa to a new courtship with a handsome farmer and church friend, Earl Klein. They were married Aug. 12, 1951, at Lynnville Church of God. Three children were born to this union: Beverly Joyce, Norman Dale, and Donna Kay. Their spouses are Larry Peckous, Gelene Evans, and Arthur Richey. Lola’s grandchildren are Stephen (Jamie) Peckous, Susan (Erik) Nelson, Gary (Jen) Klein, and Hannah (Jeff) Keep. Lola had seven great-grandchildren.
Lola accepted Christ at the age of 17. Lola and Earl’s love for God was the guiding force of their lives. They gave their all to the Lord through the Lynnville Church of God, and their greatest legacy was leading their own children in the faith. Lola was the church pianist, sang in a ladies’ trio, and also served as the church custodian.
Lola was a masterful historian. She enjoyed preparing dozens of scrapbooks and photo albums of family, church events, friends, and local events.
When Earl’s health declined, she patiently became a devoted nurse to him, day and night. She endured her own illness with a sweet spirit of acceptance and continued sense of humor.
Lola will be buried beside Earl at the St. Andrews Cemetery near Reasnor. A celebration of her life will be held at the Lynnville Heart of Worship at 10:30 a.m., Monday, Oct. 13. Memorials may be given to Lynnville Heart of Worship.
The family extends sincere gratitude to Gelene Evans and Pastors Tom and Rhonda Pool as well as all the staff at Wesley Life Cottages for their kindness and tireless care.
