Rev. Dr. Kenneth Richard Klaus
We offer this tribute in gratitude of Rev. Dr. Kenneth Richard Klaus, whose gift for sharing the love of Christ enriched every life he touched. Pastor Klaus served Bethlehem Lutheran Church as Pastor pro tem before being called to his heavenly home.
Pastor Klaus brought decades of experience and wisdom to his ministry, serving congregations across South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, and Texas. His heart for all people was evident in his work among the Lakota people of the Pine Ridge Reservation, where the granddaughter of Chief Red Cloud honored him with a Native American name.
In 2002, he became a speaker for The Lutheran Hour, continuing to broadcast, write devotions, and publish well into retirement. In 2005 he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Concordia University in Mequon, and in 2014 was named Alumni of the Year.
He is remembered for his open heart, his deep faith, and his unmistakable joy. Congregants will long recall his beloved refrain at the close of each service — “Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!”
Joseph Michael Ardy
Joseph Michael Ardy was born September 27, 1951 to Joseph J. & Evelyn Ardy of Chardon, Ohio, and was baptized at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, with his loving wife Karen by his side.
Joe is survived by his wife of nearly 20 years, Karen, his siblings Joyce and John, and a wonderful extended family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren inherited through marriage.
A gifted musician, Joe graduated from Kent State University in 1976 with a degree in Music, then earned his Master of Divinity from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis in 1991. He served congregations in Malone and Cleburne, Texas, and retired in 2014 — though he never truly stopped serving, preaching and teaching across Texas for years afterward.
Beyond the pulpit, Joe gave generously of his time as a volunteer chaplain, a Habitat for Humanity board member, and a certified Biblical Counselor. He had a deep love for woodworking, golf, fishing, and music. He is remembered as a faithful servant, a joyful presence, and a devoted husband.