Mona Jean Kleist

Mona J. Kleist, age 88 of Altoona, passed away with her family by her side on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Mona was born on January 3, 1938 in Altoona to the late Lloyd and Julia Shafer.

In June of 1955, she married Gary G. Kleist. During their marriage, she stayed home and raised their children. After their divorce, Mona worked for the Eau Claire Sheriff's Dept in the jail from 1983 until 2000, retiring as a Sargent. After retiring, Mona worked as a special transport deputy until 2006.

Mona always had a sharp mind, lots of wit and a very kind soul. She enjoyed scouting when her son was young, quilting and crosswords.

Survivors include her children: Kathy Kleist of Chippewa, Karen Hair of Boyd, Gary Kleist of Altoona, Lorrie (Britt) Kleist of Arlington, TX and Sue Hobart of Altoona; grandchildren: Jeff (Misty) Hair of Mondovi, Matthew Hair of Boyd, Kelly (Kurt) Lund of Caledonia, MN, Melissa (Rick) Leverenz and Joshua (Jordan) Hobart of Chippewa Falls, Jessica Kleist and Sarah Kleist both of Edmond, OK; 15 great-grandchildren; sisters Peggy Anderson of Eau Claire, and Deanna Shafer of Altoona; and numerous other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Julia, daughter Christina Joy Swagger, brothers Robert, Glen and William, sister Betty Passon and son-in-law Donald Swagger.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. (NOON) on Wednesday, March 25 at Stokes, Prock & Mundt Funeral Chapel, 535 S. Hillcrest Parkway with Fr. Greg Bohren officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery, Eau Claire.

Stokes, Prock & Mundt Funeral Chapel, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.stokesprockandmundt.com.