KLATT: John
November 1, 1930 – February 18, 2017
Harold John Klatt was born on November 1, 1930 to Reinhard and Anne Klatt at their home on the farm near Esk, SK. and was baptized on November 30. John attended Brindle School, and then began farming and acquiring land. During this time, Johnny helped his brother Ernie by cutting brush, and eventually they established the Klatt Bros. Track and Roller business, servicing the running gear of crawler tractors. In between the yearly cycle of seeding and harvest, John enjoyed travelling with family and friends all over the US and Canada from Texas to Alaska. His travels are well documented, as he was an avid and talented photographer. He further cultivated his photographic talents when he purchased photo developing equipment, and created his own dark room. Johnny was an advocate for wildlife preservation and his appreciation of the beauty of nature gave him endless subjects to photograph. He especially loved taking candid pictures of his nephews and nieces. Johnny played hockey and was a proud member of Sinnett's 1954 trophy-winning team, and in 1959 he acquired his private pilot's license. He loved music and has an extensive record collection. In recent years, he used his talents and artist eye to create occasional tables from diamond willow and maple, beautifully crafted with love. He ensured that all of his family and loved ones received a table. Johnny's kind and loving nature made him an attentive and helpful son and brother. His love and patience shone through when he built a go-cart that was the most well-used piece of equipment at his farm... enjoyed by generations of rally-driving nieces and nephews. John wintered in Kelowna BC for a few years in the 1970's, but remained living on the farm where he was born until he retired in 2012. He then moved into Lanigan to be close to his brother Ernie. In town, Johnny enjoyed tending his yard and garden, and he walked each day for both exercise and pleasure, and gave a friendly smile and wave to everyone he met. John was predeceased by his parents, Reinhard and Anne Klatt, his brother Werner and sister-in-law Esther Klatt, his brother Wilbur Klatt, his sister Lillian and brother-in-law Edwin Greve, and by his beloved niece Dianne Grosso. John is survived by his brother Ernie and sister-in-law Audrey Klatt, and his sister Grace Klatt, along with many nieces and nephews who regard him with love. We are so thankful that we had such a loving and wonderful Uncle who guided each of us in our lives. A Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Lanigan, SK at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Rev. Jack Robson (Deacon). Others taking part were: Sharon Moir, organist; Randy Krupa and Mel Skalicky, scripture readers; Alisa Skalicky, eulogist; Darlene Smith, Harvey Klatt, Wayne Greve, Wes Greve, Glenn Greve, Lucille Greve, Claudette Rode, Donna Dunham, Gary Klatt, Dean Klatt and Alisa Skalicky, honorary pallbearers; Dean Klatt, urnbearer. Interment will take place at a later date. Memorial donations can be directed to the Esk Lutheran Cemetery Fund. Schuler-Lefebvre Funeral Chapel.
