Jerry Klaffer

KELSO, Mo. -- Jerry Emerson Klaffer was called home to Heaven Tuesday, March 15, 2005, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Jerry was born Jan. 19, 1962, in Paducah, Ky., son of James A. and Mary DeMaris Klaffer. He and Monica Kelly were married Aug. 27, 1988, in Sikeston, Mo.

Jerry grew up in Brookport, Ill. After receiving a degree in radiologic science from SIU-Carbondale in 1985, he moved to Missouri. He was employed at Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston 17 years before leaving for Cape Radiology Group, where he was currently employed.

Jerry was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church in Kelso. He was a volunteer in Kelso youth sports, serving as an assistant coach several years.

Jerry's short time here was spent touching the lives of all who knew him. His devotion to family, loyalty to friends, commitment and pride to his church and community, his strong work ethic and compassion for others, and his love of life make up the precious memories he has left with us. His bright smile and warm spirit will be sadly missed by all, but will certainly make Heaven a brighter place for Jerry to await our reunion with him.

He is survived by his wife, Monica; four sons, Dillon, Jordan, Landon and Preston, all of the home; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim and Patti Klaffer of Rock Hill, S.C., Jack and Teresa Klaffer and John and Melinda Klaffer of Brookport; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Judy and Bill Fitch of Metropolis, Ill., Joyce and DeWayne Allen and Janie and Marvin Beshears of Brookport; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ronald and Bernadette Kelly of DeSoto, Ill.; nine nieces; eight nephews; five great-nieces; six great-nephews; and many special friends and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James A. and Mary F. Klaffer of Brookport; a great-niece; and a great-nephew.

Friends may call from 5 to 9 p.m. today at Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel in Scott City. Parish prayers will be at 6:30.

The funeral Mass will be Friday at 10 a.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church, with the Rev. Oliver Clavin as celebrant. Burial will be in St. Augustine Cemetery.