Gloria Battistoni Klecka, 98, of Dickinson, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025 surrounded by her family. Gloria was devoted to her family and friends. She was the kindest person anyone could meet and had a smile for everyone.

Gloria was born on January 18, 1927, in Dickinson to Rinaldo and Annunziata Battistoni. She graduated from Dickinson High School in 1946. She was a cheerleader and a talented volleyball player. Gloria supported many students from the district as well as the True Cross Catholic School. She was caring, loving, and had immense joy and pride for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her love for them was evident in every shared moment. Gloria surely left a legacy of love instilled in their hearts.

She married Johnnie Klecka Sr. and they were blessed with two children, Johnnie Jr. and Darlene. Together they owned and operated Klecka’s Grocery Store in Dickinson. They were dedicated business leaders in the community. Gloria exuded warmth, kindness and generosity to everyone in and out of the store. She is known for her work ethic, commitment to helping others, her beautiful smile, and loving God and family. She was a member of Shrine of the True Cross Catholic Church; a member of the Altar Society; Catholic Daughters and True Cross Women’s Club. She was a faithful servant of the Lord and lived a life of faith.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie Klecka Sr.; daughter, Darlene Whelton; parents Rinaldo and Annunziata; brothers, Johnny, Orlando, Americo, Willie, and Dan; sisters, Louise, Josephine, Ann, Mary, Mae, and Lucy. She is survived by her son Johnnie Klecka Jr. (Champ) and daughter-in-law, Mary Carmen; Son-in-law Robert Whelton; Grandchildren, Lauren Manning; Bryce Whelton; Johnnie Klecka III (Trey); Hannah Whelton; and Grant Whelton. Great-Grandchildren, Wyatt Manning; Luke Manning; and Brooks Whelton; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and family friends. The family will cherish the memories of Gloria’s love and laughter. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the Hospice team of Amy, Debi, and Patty for their heartfelt attention and caregiving. The Klecka family also would like to thank Sandy Sabatier for her generosity.

Pallbearers will be Bryce Whelton, Trey Klecka, Grant Whelton, Ty Bruysschaard, Barret Manning, and Michael Andrew Rossacci. Wyatt Manning, Luke Manning, and Brooks Whelton will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Services will be held at Shrine of the True Cross Catholic Church on Wednesday, April 30^th. Visitation will be from 11:00 – 12:00 followed by a Rosary and funeral mass at 12:30pm.