ERMA MAXINE (OTT) KLEINHARDT

Erma Maxine (Ott) Kleinhardt, 96, passed away peacefully December 23, 2021, in her home with her loving family by her side.

    No mother wishes to leave her family, but confidently she taught them many important lessons. She was ready to meet her Lord and Savior, and her final statement was, “I want to go home.”  She is now whole again, hugging her devoted husband Charles of 67 years, her young son, Kevin and her brother Arnold C.Ott.

    Erma was born September 26, 1925, the daughter of Charles and Wilma Ott. She spent her entire life on the Centennial Family Farm in Clare, Michigan. The values of love, strength, and Christian principles molded her life at a young age. This spiritual journey continued to create a God-filled life, and an amazing example to her friends and family.

    Erma attended Bosley Country School and often told memories of walking in the cold, snow-covered fields to get there. She was a proud 1944 graduate of Clare High School. Upon graduation, she bravely moved to Chicago to further her education, earning a degree as a Lab Technician.  She was hired by The Davis Clinic in Mt. Pleasant where she worked for several years.

    Charles and Erma were united in marriage on May 12, 1945.  They raised a family of four children, focusing on church, friends, and various farm- related activities. Surviving Erma are Richard (Dick) and Connie Kleinhardt, Tim Kleinhardt and Carole Hill, Charma and John Brian, and the late Kevin Kleinhardt.

    Erma was an integral part of her seven grandchildren’s’ lives. Those who loved her dearly are Stephanie (Dave) Gomola, Scott (Heidi) Kleinhardt, Rachel (Caelin) Brian, Laura Brian, Sarah (Josh) Bryant, Hannah (Jaired) Messing, and Aubrey Kleinhardt. Erma’s legacy will live on through her thirteen, devoted great-grandchildren. Erma will be truly missed by her nieces, nephews, and wonderful neighbors.

    Charles and Erma were active members of their close-knit community. Many will remember the little Brown Corners Church, where Charles led the congregation in song. Erma graciously played the organ, while her life-long friend Coloma, played the piano. Their ministry was a true team effort and lasted for nearly 50 years.

    Erma was a life-time member of Farm Bureau, a member of Brown Corners Church, Clare Church of the Nazarene, The Congregational Church in Harrison, Gideons International, Michigan Milk Producers Association, Christian Women’s Group, Women’s Missionary Association, and an Arthur Township Trustee. She was an amazing record keeper and balanced the farm expenses to the penny for numerous years.

    Visitation will be held at the Clare Church of the Nazarene on Tuesday, December 28 from 3pm to 7pm. The service will be held on Wednesday, December 29 at 11am, with final visitation starting at 10am.

    Please share your condolences with the family at www.stephenson-wyman.com Arrangements have been made by the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to Gideons International.

Erma’s family would like to extend gratitude to Dick and Connie, who cared for Erma after her stroke 2 years ago. Also, to Tim, who kept Erma informed of current events during her final years. A special thanks also to Hospice and Carole Hill who provided the nursing care during the declining days. Charma sharpened Erma’s checker game but admits she was hard to beat!