James R. Klaes

GUTTENBERG, IOWA

“Our Little Buddy”, James Robert Klaes, was welcomed into his Savior’s arms before we could hold him in ours. For a lifetime, he will be loved. Born on February 10, 2026, James left footprints on our hearts that will never fade. Though we will never watch him grow, James will always be a part of our story; he has changed us forever.

James was born to his proud and loving parents, Jonathan and Kathryn (Lee) Klaes of Guttenberg. James is carried in the hearts of his parents and extended family, who eagerly awaited his arrival.

He was baptized by Pastor Mike Ashman of St. John’s Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his parents; his grandparents, Kevin and Kari (Ratzlaff) Klaes of Guttenberg and Brian and Jackie (Schilling) Lee, also of Guttenberg; his aunts and uncles, Nick Klaes of Guttenberg; Lindsey (Klaes) and Eric Prudden of Sparks, Nevada; Matthew Klaes and Marley Milligan of Rossville; his cousin, Allison Klaes; his great-grandparents, Hank and Margaret Bramman of Manchester; and his great-grandmother, Diane Schilling of Guttenberg. He is also survived by many loving great-aunts and great-uncles, cousins, friends of Jon and Kathryn, and their spouses, who were eager to meet him.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his uncle, Zachary James Lee; his paternal great-grandparents, Robert “Bob” and Diane Klaes; his paternal great-grandfather, Frank Ratzlaff; his maternal great-grandfather, James “Jim” Schilling; and his maternal great-grandparents, Don and Carol Lee.

“But Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’” — Luke 18:16

The family would like to thank the OB Staff at Regional Family Health in Manchester, as well as their doctor and the many amazing nurses who cared for James and his parents with grace and kindness.

There are no memorial services planned at this time.

Morris Funeral Home of Guttenberg is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.