JEAN MURRAY KLEIN

SIKESTON -- Jean Murray Klein, 75, of Sikeston died Friday, Jan. 16, 1998, at Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston.

He was born on Oct. 14, 1922, at Sikeston, son of Murray G. and Hettie Mayfield Klein.

He married Maureen Blanton on June 10, 1947, at Sikeston.

He attended Sikeston public schools and the University of Missouri-Columbia. He was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church.

During World War II, he served with the 1st, 7th and 3rd American armies and the British 2nd Army.

Carrying the rank of lieutenant, he served in Gen. Patton's 7th Armored Division as lead tank commander. He was awarded four campaign ribbons for combat in Europe. He received the Bronze Star and Cluster, the Purple Heart for wounds he received in the Battle of the Bulge, and the American Defense Ribbon.

After returning from the service, he graduated with a degree in agriculture from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He worked for several years as an instructor in a government agriculture program.

He then joined his father in farming and was an active farmer for nearly 50 years.

Survivors include his wife of the home; three sons, James Murray Klein of Plano, Texas, Stephen Blanton Klein of Birmingham, Ala., and Dr. William Lewis Klein of Melbourne Beach, Fla.; two daughters, Tina Calagaz of Mobile, Ala., and Maureen Lupo of St. Louis; and 13 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a sister.

Friends may call from 5-7 p.m. today at Nunnelee Funeral Chapel in Sikeston.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday. The Rev. Jim Davis will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Sikeston City Cemetery.