Martin Henry KLEVEN, Sr.

Martin H. Kleven SR., 83, of Lake Park, MN, passed away on June 2, 2023, in Waukesha, Wisconsin. He was born on March 30, 1940, in Lake Park, MN, to Henry and Anna E. Kleven (nee Fichtner). Martin served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1962. He attended Peckham Jr. High School in Milwaukee, WI.

Martin started his career as a truck driver with Barry Trucking locally and then Wausau Tile over the road, with over 1 million miles under his belt from coast to coast. He was also an owner and operator of two different bars over the years and loved talking with all different types of people from all over. He was an avid bowler, golfer, and liked fishing.

Martin loved spending time with his grandkids and great-grandchildren. He took pride in his landscaping and was awarded top yard of the month at his house in Minnesota with the help of Bev, who lived with him. He would tell people he's been to every state in the USA, and if you comment about Hawaii, he would say there are no roads to Hawaii. At times he was a tough guy who always spoke his mind, and not many could understand or appreciate his humor.

Martin is survived by his only surviving sibling, MaeAnn Dehring, and his children, Mark (Diane), Michael (Christine), Martin JR (Chris), and Mary Anne (Craig) Markham. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was very close to the Ziegler family and spent time with his best friend and cousin, Bev Pahl, Kyle and Colton in Mapleton, MN, and many other nieces, nephews, and friends.

Martin was a fan of animals, and he said if he won the lottery, the money would go to animal shelters. A memorial service will take place at a later date. Contributions in Martin's memory can be made to the animal shelter of your choice.

Rest in peace, Martin, Dad, Grandpa Coco

Private family services will be held later this summer.

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Thelen Funeral Services is honored to be assisting the family.  

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