Anna Mae Kleckner (Dearth), 95, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026.

Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 71 years, Gilbert "Gib" Kleckner; and her son, Steven Kleckner.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Kleckner (Christine) and David Kleckner (Jennifer); her daughter-in-law, Deborah Kleckner; her grandchildren, Eric Kleckner (Tanae), Jessie Acker (Dustin), June Kleckner (Nathan), and James Kleckner (Veronica); and her great-grandchildren, Izabella Kleckner, Wyatt Kleckner, Liam Kleckner and Aidan Kleckner.

Ann and Gib were high school sweethearts who met in Monroe, Wisconsin, and married shortly after Gib returned from service in the United States Navy. They lived and raised their children in Madison, Wisconsin.

Together they shared a love of travel and adventure, visiting all 50 states and many destinations around the world. Among Ann's favorite memories were an eight-week trip to Alaska, visiting Jerusalem, and riding mules to the bottom of the Grand Canyon to stay at Phantom Ranch.

Ann was devoted to her family, her faith, and her community. She worked for many years alongside Gib at Metropolitan Life, serving as the office manager. She was also a familiar and beloved presence at Saint Maria Goretti Parish, (serving as a sacristan for 18 years), and Saint Thomas Aquinas Church, where her warm smile, outgoing personality, and caring spirit touched countless lives.

Family and friends will remember Ann for her contagious laugh, warm hugs, wonderful baking, and unforgettable holiday and birthday celebrations. Her home was always open to family and friends, with fresh coffee, homemade treats, and often a Wisconsin Badgers game on television. As passionate Badger fans, Ann and Gib were longtime season ticket holders for football, basketball, and hockey.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Brookdale in Middleton for their years of compassionate care, and to the outstanding staff and caregivers at Hollowstone in Middleton for their kindness and support during Ann's final weeks. Special thanks to Agrace HospiceCare for the exceptional care and comfort they provided to Ann and her family.

Ann's kindness, faith, generosity, and love for family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1^st, 2026, at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. Following the visitation, a graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 2705 Regent St, Madison, WI 53705.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to Agrace Hospice Care, 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI.

Please share your memories below in the online guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434