Helen Morene Klotz

GILBERT – Our precious mother passed away peacefully, into the loving arms of Jesus, on July 31, 2018, at the amazing age of 96. In spite of various health challenges the past several years, she never complained; instead, continued to live with dignity, grace and joy, an example to us all. She was hard to resist, easy to love. Morene left her rugged farm life behind when the family moved to Phoenix in 1955. She was a homemaker, then handled the accounting for the family tile business, working with her husband and three sons, before beginning her self-described “fun-filled, 40-year adventure” working daily alongside son Greg in his floor covering business, joined later by son Earl with the acquisition of an ice company. With Marlene, she enjoyed annual Mother-Daughter trips and countless, memorable experiences. She had a spectacular relationship with all of her children. She shared her passion for the Phoenix Suns with church friends, forming “The Golden Girls” fan club that was devoted to cheering and supporting their Suns. She was also an avid supporter of Sun Devil and Arizona Cardinal football. Friends of all ages gathered around her table for Friday afternoon Chickenfoot and weekly Scrabble games. Her life revolved around her church where she was actively involved for four decades. In spite of all the incredible places she was blessed to travel, church was always her favorite destination. She was humble, kind, joyful and leaves a noble legacy of passion and love for the Lord. Morene was born June 26, 1922, in Tiltonsville, Ohio. She is preceded in death by her parents Alma and Stanley Barski, brother Stan, sister Laura Pavelkey, husband Bill, son Bill Jr, grandson Chuck Klotz. Survivors include son Lawrence Earl Holt (Elizabeth), Greg Klotz (Johnnie), Marlene Collins (Rex), daughterin-law Shirley Klotz and nine grandchildren, 20 greats and five great greats, nieces Camilla Hart, Darlene Lucarelli, nephew Mike Barski and their families. A 9 a.m. visitation will be held Wednesday, August 8, followed by a 10 a.m. Celebration of Life service and 11 a.m. reception at First Southern Baptist Church of Mesa, 851 North Stapley Drive, 85203. In lieu of flowers, Morene would be honored by memorial gifts to the church.