Norman Klements died peacefully of natural causes at Rangely District Hospital. He was born in Silverton, Colo., to John and Mary Klements. He was graduated from Silverton High School and continued his education at Fort Lewis College and earned his bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University.
He met Carolyn Bennett in Silverton. They married in 1952. He taught in Lyons and Monte Vista, Colo., for five years. In 1958, Norm began his teaching career in Rangely which spanned nearly 30 years. There he coached swimming, baseball, track, wrestling, football, basketball and taught P.E., industrial arts and math. After teaching for more than 20 years, Norm returned to school and earned a master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado, then continued to teach in Rangely until his retirement.
Norm was involved in many community activities. He was a member of the Jaycees and Lions Club, served on the board of directors for CNCC, served on the parish council and finance committee for St. Ignatius Catholic church. Norm coordinated the 9-Health Fair, and helped organize the building of Cedar Ridges golf course and Kenney Reservoir.
He is survived by his children Kirby (Maryann) of Broomfield, Becky Nees of Grand Junction, Kathy (Steve) Houska of Shepherd, Mont., and Casey (Gara) of Evanston, Wyo.; and his sister Carolyn (Sonny) Hadden of California. Norm was preceded in death by his wife Carol, daughter Eloise, and two brothers, John and Bill. He was blessed with 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Rangely, Colo., at 1 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, 2011. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Ignatius, 678 School St., Craig, Colo., 81625, or the American Diabetes Foundation.
