Joseph Klein of Rochester, MN, passed away peacefully at his home on November 18, 2013.

Joe was born November 15, 1931 in Mott, ND to Michael and Margaret (Jahner) Klein, the 10 ^th of 14 children. Joe was drafted into the army in 1955 and served in Fairbanks Alaska. After his discharge, Joe moved to Rochester in January, 1956. He held several jobs until his employment by St. Mary's hospital, working in Facilities Maintenance for over 30 years until his retirement in 1993. Joe loved music and was known for his musical talent. He played with several bands throughout his life including the "Happy Go Luckies", in which he, a brother and 2 brothers- in- law played. Joe played the piano, banjo, and accordion.

On October 12, 1957, Joe married Lois Sutton at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Rochester, MN. Joe and Lois made their home in the Rochester area, and raised 7 children during their 56 years of marriage.

Joe is survived by his wife, Lois, and their 7 children, all of whom live in Rochester:  Joleen (Dan) Leach, Tim (Laurie) Klein, Jackie (Nick) Chonis, Janel Howard, Jill Klein, Jean (Greg) Gore, and Jennifer (Phil) Taylor; 12 grandchildren: Justin (Jenny) Chonis, Mandy Klein, Travis (Sarah) Sherden, Kelley (Adam) Ruszczyk, Tyler (Rachelle) Sherden, Chelsie (Bronson) Ohm, Amber Ugland, Aaron Klein, Andrew Klein, Jacob Klein, Brooke Taylor, Cole Taylor; and 9 great grandchildren: Norah and Francie Chonis, Brianna, Lauren and Carter Sherden, Audrey Ruszczyk, Anna, Avery, and Wesley Ohm.

He is also survived by 3 sisters: Cecelia Fritsch of Rochester, Emma Friedt of Mott, ND.,Margaret (Matt) Helfrich of Billings, MT., and 1 brother, Ray (Shirley) Klein of Sequim, WA.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters, and 6 brothers.

Joe loved his classic vehicle collection, snowmobiling, music, dancing, and most of all, spending precious time with his family. The Kleins had (and continue to have) frequent family gatherings with much laughter, teasing, and reminiscing. Joe was able to spend his 82 ^nd birthday at home surrounded by love, with Lois, their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Joe will be missed by everyone who knew him, especially his family.

The Memorial Mass for Joseph Klein will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 23, at Pax Christi Catholic Church in Rochester with Rev. Joseph Fogal officiating.  Visitation will be held Friday, November 22, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Macken Funeral Home River Park Chapel in Rochester and one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Saturday.  Burial will be in Grandview Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Mayo Clinic for Parkinsons Research or Prostate Cancer Research.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com