Plan for the Future
Tuesday, March 5, 2024, Bernice (Hess) Klebaur, 99, longtime resident of Tuttles Point in Guilford passed away at Connecticut Hospice, Branford.
Mrs. Klebaur was born in Newark, NJ on Nov. 24, 1924, wife of the late Eugene J. Klebaur. daughter of the late Louis M. Hess and Louise (Fraebel) Hess and Sister of the late Victoria (Hess) Stewart (deceased Husband, Francis Stewart). She is survived by Cousin Carole Clifford (late husband John Ashcom) of Quakertown, PA, Niece Judi Klebaur of High Bridge, NJ. and Nephew Edward J. Klebaur, Jr (wife Mary Ann Klebaur) of Salisbury, NC. In addition, she is survived by to many other nieces and nephews.
Bernice is a 1942 graduate of Columbia High School in Maplewood, NJ where she met her future husband, Gene. They were married on May 3, 1945.
Before retirement she taught dance for 30 years at her own studio, known as Miss Bernice’s Dance Studio. It was in the old Grange Hall in Guilford. Her dancing career began as an 18-year-old when she became a Rockette at Radio City Music Hall. After about eight years as a Rockette, she joined the June Taylor Dancers on the Jackie Gleason Saturday evening TV variety show.
She loved being near the water, both in Connecticut and in Florida where she wintered for about 30 years. She was an accomplished water skier and she also enjoyed gardening, crafts and painting. She will be remembered as a wonderful lady and loved by all whom she touched.
Burial services will be on March 18th at Fair Mount Cemetery in Chatham, New Jersey. Bernice will be laid to rest with her beloved husband Gene. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd, Branford, CT 06405; https://www.hospice.com/ or an Animal Rescue Shelter of your choice.
