Ronald Phillip Klause

Ron is lovingly remembered for his deep faith in Jesus Christ, kindness, fairness to all people, love for children, wisdom, and for being just a "good guy." Ro, his wife, was the love of his life and their strong marriage has been an inspiration for many. He enjoyed serving the Lord by her side in a variety of ministries such as the Agape Center at Smith Mountain Lake and co-leading their Sages Senior Group together. With their gift of hospitality, Ron also played a big role in helping Ro throw the most famous and best-loved parties.

His entire family was the most important thing in the world to him. He loved his grandchildren, and gave his own children the most wonderful childhood memories. He always enjoyed a round of golf, refinishing furniture with his wife, researching his family's ancestry, fishing, and boating. His joy was creating grand adventures for his grandkids, like panning for gold, kayaking, exploring old houses, wood-working, storytelling, and teaching them Morse Code.

Ron served the Lord at many churches as Deacon, Elder, and Sunday School Teacher. He was known as a pastor's friend and confidant. Ron loved children and they loved him. He was beloved for his magic tricks, working in church nurseries, volunteering with Awana and community after-school programs.

Ron served in the US Army from 1960-1963. He was a Structural Engineer, graduating from Northeastern University in 1971 and then worked for Stone & Webster for over 30 years specializing in Nuclear Power Plants.

Ron is survived by his wife of 57 years, Rosalie Klause, nee Cannarozzo; daughter Robin (Daniel) Joss; son Robert (Tonya) Klause; grandchildren Dryden, Deven, and Daelyn Joss; and Graham and Maria Klause. Also surviving are siblings Bob (Audrey) Klaus, Joe Klause, and Sandra Laughery of Borger Texas; and Steve Klause of Amarillo Texas.

"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love." -Paul to the Corinthians

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a financial donation to a new children's project that Ron was very excited about:

Promise Land Scholarship: EastLake Community Church, where Ron and Ro were members for many years, is committed to building a bridge to all in the community surrounding the church. The recently discovered Historic Promise Land School structure near EastLake was moved to EastLake’s property for renovation and preservation. The Promise Land School was exclusively used to educate black children from 1920 to approximately mid 1950’s. EastLake Community Church developed The Promise Land Scholarship to provide quality Christian education to African American children in the area, some whose grandparents or great grandparents may have attended the original Promise Land School. The goal for 2020 is to provide 2 scholarships in the amount of $5,500 for a total of $11,000 to attend EastLake’s school: Smith Mountain Lake Christian Academy. It is the church’s vision to add to this fund each ensuing year, which would provide education for 2 students.

*To give, please make checks payable to:

SMLCA (with Promise Land in the memo), 1201 Timberwood Lane, Moneta, VA 24121.