Melinda Gutierrez

Melinda Gutierrez was born on May 17, 1962 in Savanna, Illinois, the daughter of Owen and Lillian (Johnson) Kleckner. She attended Savanna schools. Then, Melinda set out to adventure into the world of “being an adult” by traveling and working. She first went to Tennessee for a couple of years, then South Dakota for several years, and later Independence, Missouri for over fifteen years. The last eight years, Melinda has lived in Sabula, Iowa, to be close to family.

One common thread through her journey of life is that she worked at Lowe's Home Improvement stores. She was known as a dedicated and hardworking employee, with the title of Display Coordinator. Lowe’s was like family - good people.

In her personal life, Melinda was described as fiercely independent, witty, and straightforward. She struggled with health issues in her later years, including kidney failure that required dialysis three times a week. Despite her declining health, Melinda maintained her strong spirit and disliked asking for help, even refusing to use a walker or wheelchair when her mobility became limited.

Melinda passed away unexpectedly at her home in Sabula, on September 27, 2024 at the age of 62. She is survived by her son, Jacob of Missouri; five siblings, Royce Kleckner of Savanna, Colleen Holt of Almagordo, New Mexico, Brian Kleckner of Savanna, Jenise (Tim) Sheedy of Sabula, and Pat (Tina) Kleckner of Kansas City, Missouri; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by both parents; a sister, Robin at birth; a brother-in-law John Holt; and her husband, Jose Gutierrez.

The family will gather to remember Melinda privately, celebrating her life. She will be remembered for her resilience, sense of humor, and fierce determination to maintain her independence for as long as possible.