Former football, basketball, and golf player Earl Bruce Klyn, fondly known as Bruce, passed away on January 14, 2026.
His presence was larger than life, and his passing has brought deep sorrow to all who knew him.
The Entire Community, Along With His Friends and Family, Are Mourning the Loss of Earl Bruce Klyn!
Born on November 26, 1946, Bruce graduated from Baxter High School in 1964 and studied at Ellsworth Community College.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology from William Penn University, where he also played football and basketball.
His career began at Monsanto Chemical, but his true mark was made when he started Roemerman Feed and Grain in 1973, later expanding with elevators in Blakesburg, Albia, and Centerville.
After retiring, he returned to farming at Klyn Farms, where he was admired for his agricultural wisdom.
Outside of work, Bruce was a loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan, loved playing cribbage, enjoyed golf in his younger years, and spent time coyote hunting.
He was rarely without a dog by his side, especially Dexter and Rascal.
Now, regarding his family life, Bruce married Janyce Kline in 1966, and though they later divorced, they remained connected through their family.
He is survived by his children, Eric (Jenny) Klyn and Kristen (Rob) Walker; grandchildren Wyatt Klyn (Morgan), Whitney Klyn, Drake, Avery, Brooklyn, and Bennett Walker.
Additionally, he leaves behind his brother Wayne Klyn and his former spouse Janyce Klyn.
In another vein, he was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Henry and Neva Louise Klyn.
The community mourns the loss of a man who was always present at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.
Friends and family remember him as a man of hard work, loyalty, and love, and his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
One of his friends remembered him as the most interesting and fun person, saying :
My sympathies to the family, but they can know that Bruce lived a long full life filled with both hard work and great fun. He was one of the most interesting and fun people I’ve ever known.Extremely intelligent with always a good story to tell. I can think of many good things to say but the people that knew Bruce already would know what I am talking about !!!!
Another friend reflected on Bruce’s kindness, recalling how deeply he touched their family, saying:
May the memories of Bruce’s love and legacy bring you comfort and strength
Bruce was so good to are family
My Dad Jim Farnsworth loved working for him! RIP my friend!
Bruce’s life will be celebrated with a visitation on January 19, 2026, at Sinnott Funeral Home in Albia, followed by a funeral service on January 20.
Likewise, memorials will go toward local youth sports organizations, honoring his devotion to supporting young athletes.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Earl Bruce Klyn’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace Bruce.
