"Oh, the stories! My favorites were listening to the Presentation Academy ones. Always wondered how many knots were in these guys' heads after the nuns would catch them at their shananigans. Also wondered -- but didn't care -- how many of them were true. Marty, Steve, and the boys, please lift one (or two) from me. One of the truly good guys. "
In loving memory of
Clement "Clem" Kollasch
December 14, 1934 - January 29, 2018
Clement Michael Kollasch was born December 14, 1934, in Whittemore, Iowa, the son of Charles R. and Anna (Laubenthal) Kollasch. He grew up near Whittemore and graduated from Presentation Academy in 1952.
On June 4, 1960, Clem was united in marriage to Mary Helen Brennan in Emmetsburg. After their marriage they lived and farmed near Whittemore. Clem served in the Iowa National Guard obtaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. He also worked for Armstrong Ready Mix for 15 years.
Clem enjoyed following his boys in their high school and college athletic events and in later years his grandchildren's activities. He also was an avid gardener, enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and visiting with friends. Clem was passionate about raising and caring for livestock. Throughout his life, Clem loved music and dancing. He was a member of St. Michael's Parish and the Holy Name Society.
Clem died Monday, January 29, 2018, at his home in Whittemore. He was 83.
He is survived by his sons, Gene of Whittemore; Martin and wife, LaDona of Whittemore; Steve and wife, Deb of Whittemore; Phil of Whittemore; John of Whittemore; grandchildren, Brennan of Las Vegas; Jacob of Ashton; Anna Kate, Anthony and Zachary all of Sioux City; two step-grandchildren, Collan and Joel Traver; eight great-grandchildren. Also surviving are siblings, Sr. Anne Marie Kollasch, P.B.V.M. of Dubuque; Caroline Bormann of Algona; Delores Kollasch of Algona; Sr. Joanne Kollasch, O.S.B. of Madison, WI; Irene Bormann of Bode and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Mary Helen on January 9, 2014, and his three brothers, Louis Kollasch, Fr. Eugene Kollasch S.J. and Arnold Kollasch.
Tributes
"Sending our sympathy to Steve and all family and friends. Todd & Kay Suhr"
"To all of you I send my condolences. I am glad I knew Clem and MaryHelen-they always had time to chat:) I wish you happy memories to bring you peace of heart . Sincerely, Ann Wilson Bormann "
"A great man who made not only the community of Whittemore, but the entire world a better place. To all of the Kollasch family please know how much this man touched the lives of so many. He was a good friend of my father Lawrence and myself. Rest in Peace Clem. Another great card player goes Heaven!"
"To all of the Kollasch boys and families. I knew your father all of my life. Always a gentle, happy soul, who loved a good story, a good laugh, a cold beer, and friends. A true Icon of Whittemore. Wish I could be there to celebrate his life with you. Jim Gengler"
"Gene, Marty, Steve, Phil, John and families, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Your Dad was a gentle, happy soul. May faith, family, friends and fond memories of your Dad and Mom sustain you. Your cousin, Steve Elbert and family (Mike's little brother)"
"Your dad was a GREAT guy. I always enjoyed his stories.....he could put a smile on my face every time. He will be missed! Thinking of you!!"
"Clem was the best. I remember as a child being swept away in his truck to go see the horses and other farm animals. In a gravelly voice he'd show us his giant pets that were such a site to see. And he'd talk sweetly to them calling them pet names. I love that I could visit with my own kids years later and he showed them the same courtesy just a little slower and a little more gravelly. He loved kids, family, and a cold beer. Rest In Peace Clem David Harm and family"
"Deepest sympathy to the Entire Kollasch Family with the loss of your Father Clem. Keeping you all in our thoughts and Prayers!! The Sewicks, Randy Lori and Family"
"Your Dad will be missed! His kindness, sense of humor, and ready wit were a testament to someone who helped so many!"
"Clem always had a smile for me, he was a very nice man. I liked to visit with him during the warm months when he drove around Whittemore with his truck window down, greeting people! Prayers to his family!"
"Clem - Was my young Uncle of 17 yrs. -- Growing up as a teen , I could always consult with Clem ! He was a Free-Spirit , plainly speaking - a GREAT GUY . GOD Bless Clem - His (3) brothers are waiting for a Big Kollasch Event . I trust that his (5) Sons will give Clem a Great Memorial . Thank You , Clem for all you done for me . Luke Kollasch"