Nelson Kleyer

Nelson A. Kleyer, age 95 of Belleville, IL peacefully passed away on December 13, 2025 surrounded by his wife and family.

He was preceded in death by his:

• Parents, Nelson V. and Josephine M., nee Brauch, Kleyer
• Mother and Father in-law
• Son-in-law, William Bartsch
• Brother, Willard Kleyer
• Brothers and sisters-in-law

He is survived by his:

• Wife, Dolores, nee Cipfl, Kleyer
• Children:
  • Debby Bartsch (Patrick Baehler)
  • David (Tracy) Kleyer
• Grandchildren:
  • Derek (Rebecca Bossin) Bartsch
  • Taylor Bartsch
  • Amanda (Mike) Bascetta
  • Parker Kleyer
  • Olivia (Ghali) Haddad
• Great grandchildren:
  • Benjamin Woods
  • Kendall Bascetta
  • Billie Bartsch
• Many wonderful friends and neighbors

Born in Waterloo, IL on August 22, 1930, Nelson attended Summers Business College and worked at Southern Illinois National Bank for a short time before entering the US Army to serve his country. After his discharge, he returned to Southern Illinois National Bank where he met the love of his life, Dolores and enjoyed a wonderful marriage of 68 years. Nelson had a long career with Jul Fischer Distributor, Koerner Distributor and Lloyd’s. Not being able to relax after retirement, he returned to the workforce with Macy’s “for fun” and worked well into his 70s.

Nelson was a kind, compassionate person and a friend to many. He was a loving husband to Dolores. They did almost everything together and especially enjoyed entertaining, their card clubs and dancing, especially the polka. Nelson was devoted to his family, his number one priority. He was always one step ahead and had things taken care of before you even asked for help. He was a huge sports fan, but only when it came to his grandkids’ games. Nelson was always impeccably dressed and a perfectionist. He was creatively artistic and made many beautiful wood decorations for the holidays. This eventually transitioned to helping his daughter with her craft business, hence doing craft shows on the weekends and the nickname, Mr. Doodle.

Memorial donations in Nelson’s name are appreciated to St. Jude’s Hospital.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 19th, 2025, from 10-11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 5923 N. Belt West, Belleville.

Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with interment at Lake View Memorial Gardens.