John A. Klit

Born on a farm near Arnold, Iowa on December 15, 1943, to Danish immigrants, John and Marie Klit, who preceded him in death. John married Toni Horsefield in Humboldt, Iowa on June 3, 1967. After graduating from Humboldt High School in 1962, he went on to Iowa State University and earned his B.S., Masters and PhD. In 1969, he started his career in Springfield, IL at the Illinois State Board of Education in the Department of Vocational and Technical Education retiring 33 years later. During his tenure, he was a well-known and respected educator in the state.

Over his lifetime he loved the outdoors: fishing in Canada, Lake Shelbyville, and 38 years in Door County, WI bringing in salmon. Hunting in central Illinois was his passion – from his many wall hangers to just sitting in a tree; whether a limit of ducks or knowing tomorrow was going to be the day, it was all about being with family and friends.

John was a list maker, a reader, a smooth waltzer, enjoyed comics in the morning, especially Pickles, and shooting his age on the golf course.

His faith guided his life in a quiet way. Active as a member of Grace Lutheran Church, he loved singing in the choir, volunteering in its Food Pantry, and serving on the council.

John and Toni loved traveling whether it was camping at Lake Shelbyville, visiting his Danish relatives in Denmark, traveling the US in their motorhome, or spending 22 winters in south Texas. Retirement was full.

Survivors include his wife, Toni, of 57 years; two sons, John E. Klint (Allison) of Springfield and Jerad A. Klint (Sherrie) of Elburn; four amazing grandchildren, Katie, Joey, Abby and Brooke Klint; a sister, Carol Wigans (Allen) of Newton, Iowa; as well as 1 niece, 2 nephews and 14 cousins.

Family will host a Visitation from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on April 19, 2024, at Grace Lutheran Church, 714 E. Capitol Ave., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony will follow at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider the Grace Lutheran Food Pantry or the Grace Trust.

The family is being served by Boardman-Smith Funeral Home, 800 S. Grand Ave. West, Springfield.