Pamela Jean Klema, age 73, died on March 12, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
Pam was born February 24, 1953, in Rushford, Minn., to Clair and Ellen (Maland) Overland. She spent the first few years in Hart where her dad operated the creamery and she attended a one room schoolhouse before moving to town and graduating from Rushford High School in 1971.
In high school, Pam met Jerry Bunke. They were soon married and enjoyed camping, hiking and paddling through the outdoors. Jerry’s snowmobile racing career took them to Roseau about the same time they welcomed Gabriel. Pam loved attending races and being a part of the race family. Tragically, Jerry died while racing in 1978. Pam eulogized him in a tremendous display of faith and strength. She remained in Roseau to raise Gabe and soon met and married Jerry Klema. The family grew to include Michael, David and Sara.
Pam’s patience and selfless nature were treasured as a teacher. Her pioneering spirit led her to open the coffee shop Capella before following her adventurous side around the world as a flight attendant. Later, she became a massage therapist, exemplifying her love of alleviating others’ discomfort.
Pam recognized the good in everyone she met. When you spoke with her, she gave you undivided attention. She was kind and generous, supportive and encouraging. She treasured deep friendships and felt fortunate to have wonderful friends. She especially loved being Grandma Pam, not only to her grandkids but also many of their friends.
We will miss her immensely, especially at the lake. But we will remember her with the smell of brewing coffee, each time we see a thunderstorm rolling across Sturgeon Channel, when the daisies bloom and the rhubarb ripens, and every time the hot tub is full of kids.
Pam is survived by her four children: Gabe (Thora) Bunke, Michael (Melissa) Klema, David (Julia) Klema, and Sara (Pete Geroy) Klema; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild: Taylor (Harlee) and Jagger, Boe (Emma) and Britta Bunke, Ole Norris Klema, John and Paul Klema, and Cora, Nell and Angus Klema. Also her siblings David Overland and Lori (Perry) Benson.
She was preceded in death by her husbands Jerry Bunke and Jerry Klema, her parents, and her brother Philip Overland.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Pam is scheduled for Thursday, March 19 at 10 a.m. at Helgeson Funeral Home in Roseau. There will also be a graveside service in Rushford on May 1.
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