Obituary of Brian Kleis

Brian Lynn Kleis, 51, passed away, November 13, 2025, surrounded by love, leaving behind a life full of curiosity, creativity, and joy. Brian was born January 10, 1974, in Maquoketa, Iowa, the son of Keith Harold and Judie Lynn (Stamp) Kleis. He grew up in Maquoketa and graduated with the Class of 1992 before attending Loras College in Dubuque.

Brian began his career with radio stations, KMAQ and KAT- FM as an announcer—a job that suited his warm voice, quick wit, and love of storytelling. He later found his professional home in computer programming, software trainer and IT, supporting countless businesses with both his expertise and his characteristic patience and humor.

If you knew Brian—and many were lucky to—you knew a man with a boundless enthusiasm for the things he loved. Disney, Star Wars, Legos, and a love of books that he got from his Grandma Ruth. Brian used his reading in every opportunity, especially with trivia and he was famous among friends for his “vast knowledge of useless information,” offered always with a grin. Though he claimed he couldn’t cook, he adored good food and approached every meal like a joyful adventure. As a member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he was a deacon and choir member, Brian adored the family he found within those walls.

Music and performing arts were woven throughout Brian’s life. He spent years involved in theatre and sang with the Quire of Eastern Iowa and the San Francisco Gay Men’s Choir, finding community and connection through song. His work and his passions took him all over the United States, and he delighted in every trip—every new place, every new story.

Brian is survived by his parents, Keith and Judie Kleis; his brother, Kevin Kleis, and Kevin’s wife, Sarah; his beloved niece Emma and nephews Chandler and Gregory; along with numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles who cherished him.

Brian was preceded in death by his Grandparents, Erwin and Marguerite Stamp and Harold and Ruth Kleis, and a bonus Grandpa Wilford DeGraw.

November 13th, the day of Brian’s passing, is recognized as World Kindness Day, which fits in with his final wish: That we go forward spreading love, choosing joy, and meeting each person with kindness.

Services celebrating Brian’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church in Iowa City. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Brian’s honor to support causes dear to him.

To share a memory or condolence, please visit the Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website.