Daniel Arthur Kleven

Daniel “Dan” Arthur Kleven, 76, of Willmar, Minnesota, passed away early Friday morning, February 6, 2026, at St. Cloud Hospital after suffering a stroke.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, both at Vinje Lutheran Church.  The service will be streamed on the church's YouTube page. Interment with military honors will be at Cloverleaf Cemetery in Willmar.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Vinje Lutheran Church, Minnesota Public Radio, or PBS.  Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Homes. 

Dan, a Vietnam veteran and graduate of Mankato State University, was born February 24, 1949, at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar to Wally and Nellie Kleven.

One of his first jobs was working in a men’s clothing store, where he developed an appreciation for fine clothes—he was always looking sharp.

After graduating from college, Dan returned home to work on the family dairy farm. Following his father’s passing, he began a career at Pioneer Hi-Bred, where he worked in corn research.

Dan believed strongly in giving back. He was always involved in sports, his church, and served on multiple community boards throughout his life.

Two things Dan treasured most were the outdoors and people. The coffee pot was always on and the sauna always hot. Friends were family, and family were friends. His energy was infectious, and he had a gift for easily making friends—young and old—often striking up conversations with complete strangers by asking, “So what’s for dinner tonight?” Dan honored those who paved his way and served as a grounding force and source of wisdom for all who were blessed to share his company.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wally and Nellie Kleven, and his sister, Kathy.  Dan is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his children, Eric (Kenzie), Grant (Mollie), and Andrew (Stephanie); his grandchildren, Elizabeth, Nora, Zoey, and June; his sisters, Lisa (Eric) and Jodi (Thom); and many beloved nieces and nephews.

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