Stanton James Kleinert, age 86, passed away on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at Agrace HospiceCare, Inc. in Fitchburg, WI.  He was born on November 7, 1935 in Petoskey, MI, the son of Erwin and Inez (Stanton) Kleinert. Stan graduated from high school in Rockford, MI in 1953. He earned his Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan in 1957 and his Master's degree at Michigan State University in Fish Biology in 1962. On June 14, 1959, he was united in marriage to Judith Fluke in Holt, MI.  In 1962, the couple moved to Oconomowoc, WI, and Stan began working for the Wisconsin DNR at the Delafield Fish Hatchery. He would retire from the DNR in 1996 as a Bureau Chief working in industrial water pollution. Over the years, Stan was instrumental in water quality and conservation efforts in the state and nation. Stan and his family moved to Mount Horeb in 1970, where he served as an EMT with the Fire Department and on the Mount Horeb Wastewater Committee. Stan was an accomplished gardener and outdoorsman. He cherished the time spent at the cabin he built on Lake Van Vliet and tending his plants on Washington Island in the summers. Stan will be remembered for his generosity, care, and acceptance of those he loved, as well as his remarkable self-discipline and thoughtfulness.

Stan is survived by his wife Judy, daughter Susan (Mark) Wallitsch, son James Kleinert, grandchildren Lucy (Andrew Hill) Wallitsch, Franke Wallitsch, and Julian Wallitsch, brother Jack (Kathy) Kleinert and two nephews, brother-in-law Richard (JoAnn) Fluke and a niece and nephew.

A celebration of Stan's life will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 12, 2022 at 503 Park View Rd., Mount Horeb, WI. A short ceremony of remembrance will be held at 6:00 p.m.

Stan once said "Flowers and plants are nice, but people need food."  Therefore, memorial donations are appreciated to Neighbors Helping Neighbors or your local food pantry.

The Becker-Beal Funeral Home of Belleville is assisting the family.