Blanche Kathleen "Kay" Kleiss

Blanche Kathleen Kleiss (Kay) passed away on September 27, 2026 after 92 wonderful years of life.

Kay was born August 8, 1934 in Villa Grove, graduated from Villa Grove High School in 1952 and continued on to graduate from Eastern Illinois University with honors in chemistry in 1956. Kay married Edwin R. Kleiss in 1956 and they were married 62 years and raised 2 children, Kristi Kathleen (Chris)Townsend and John Robert (Pattie)Kleiss. They were blessed with 5 grandchildren, Kari, Aimee, Mary Claire, Catherine and John (Jack), and 5 great grandchildren. Kay was preceded in death by her husband, Ed and her great granddaughter, Lydia. Kay was loved by many nieces and nephews.

Kay taught chemistry, physics and general science for 34 years, most of the years at Tuscola High School before retiring in 1994. She cherished her students and her chemistry team won accolades almost every single year in chemistry competitions. Her students benefitted greatly from her devotion and many students took the knowledge Kay gave them far into their careers.

We love that Kay was 1953 Pancake Queen at the famous Pancake Festival in Villa Grove. Kay was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, DAR, and served as president and on the legislative committee of Douglas County Retired Teachers. She also worked as an election judge for many years, delivered Peace Meals, and served on the local school board.

Kay cherished her pinochle group of friends that met for over 60 years. This group included Dennis and Jeanine Dietrich, Ann and Lyle Huffman, Ruth Ann and Charlie Hausmann, Gaylord and Clarice Schweighart and Kenny and Mary Ring. This was a remarkable lifelong friendship that they all cherished.

The immediate family will hold a private graveside service. Please join us to celebrate Kay’s life at an open house on Thursday, October 1 from 1-3 p.m. at Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, Tuscola.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Tuscola High School Science Department in memory of Mrs. Kleiss.

Online condolences may be shared via www.hilligossshraderfh.com