Obituaries

Lucille Klusas (née Janes), age 98, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, in Saint Charles, Illinois. Born on July 7, 1927, in the small town of Lebanon Junction, Kentucky, Lucille lived a long and love-filled life devoted to her family and the simple joys that brought her happiness.

Lucille’s journey began in rural Kentucky, where she was raised by her parents, Joseph Janes and Blanche Ritter. From those humble beginnings, she carried with her a deep sense of warmth and kindness that would define her life. At the age of 19, she met the love of her life, Frank Klusas, at a local roller rink—a chance meeting that blossomed into a lifelong partnership of 70 years. Together they built a home filled with  love and raised three children.

A devoted homemaker for most of her life, Lucille poured her heart into caring for her family. Her gentle spirit and fun-loving nature made their home a place of comfort and joy. She had a silly sense of humor that endeared her to all who knew her and left lasting memories for generations.

Lucille found joy in the everyday pleasures of life. In her early adulthood, she enjoyed bowling and tending to her garden—especially harvesting tomatoes and admiring the vibrant flowers outside her windows. Her green thumb was matched only by her soft heart for animals. Dogs held a special place in Lucille’s heart; over the decades, she welcomed many pups into her home, providing them with loving forever homes. Even neighborhood dogs knew where to stop for treats—Lucille was always ready with a kind word and a snack for any furry friend passing by.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Susan Surges (Terry), son Mark Klusas, and son-in-law Alan Perkaus and many nieces and nephews.  Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Amy Ritchie (Craig), Carrie Surges, Jenny Davis (Greg), Terry Surges (Adrienne), Bree Showalter (Mike), Matt Klusas (Marina), Rebecca Ladner (Erich), Russell Klusas (Chrissy), Bennett Klusas (Kat), and Clayton Klusas.

Lucille was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her later years: Jordan Ritchie, Savannah Ritchie, Evan Ritchie, Jessie Davis, Camryn Davis, Nova Surges, Phoenix Surges, Clark Surges, Gemma Sines, Asher Sines, Oaken Sines, Henry Showalter, Sedona Klusas, August Klusas, Wesley Klusas, Parker Klusas, Carter Klusas, and Ava Klusas.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Frank Klusas; cherished daughter Joyce Perkaus; brother Cliff Klusas; mother Blanche Ritter; and father Joseph Janes.

Lucille’s life was one of quiet strength and enduring love—a legacy reflected in the generations she nurtured and inspired. Her memory will live on in every flower blooming outside a windowpane and every dog wagging its tail at the sound of kindness.

May Lucille’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. A Service will be held on August 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Yurs Funeral Home 405 E. Main St. Viewing will begin at 10am with a service beginning at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to Anderson Humane.  HTTPS://Ahconnects.org

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