Lela Marea Kline

Lela Marea Kline, cherished mother, beloved wife, and devoted friend, passed away on September 19, 2025, at Parkview Hospital Randallia in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Born on December 12, 1946, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Marea was the daughter of Glen and Emma Jane (Bailey) Hammons.

Marea graduated from the Academy Notre Dame of Providence in Newport, Kentucky, in 1964. With a strong work ethic that defined her life, she dedicated much of her career to Eaton Controls in North Manchester, where she earned a reputation as an extremely hardworking employee. After the closing of Eaton Controls, Marea worked at several other places before retiring.

On May 6, 1972, Marea married Allen Kline, and together they created a loving home for their six children. Marea’s love for her family was immeasurable, and she devoted her life to caring for them. Known for her cooking, she garnered a special fondness for her fried chicken, which became a family favorite. Marea found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often relaxing by watching game shows on television, a pastime that brought her comfort and entertainment. Marea also shared a special bond with her dog, Cinnamon, who was a constant companion and source of joy in her life.

While Marea did not serve in the military, she held a deep respect and admiration for those who did, supporting both them and her country. She cultivated a nurturing spirit not only within her family but also among her friends and community members. Marea’s unwavering kindness and willingness to help others, often without complaint, left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her.

The loving memory of Lela Marea Kline will be forever cherished by her husband, Allen Kline, North Manchester; children, James Kline, Wabash, Jane “Janie” Wyman, Pierceton, Kenneth (Christine) Kline, Montgomery, Alabama, and Sharon (Mike) Holland, Wabash; brothers, Glen (Connie) Hammons, North Manchester and Ed (Sue) Purvis, Wabash; sister, Mary Kline, North Manchester; special niece, Melissa (Pano) Quintero, North Manchester; nine grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Marea was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Kevin Kline and Andrew Kline; brother, John Hammons; grandson, Cody Holland; special nephew, Michael Kline; brothers-in-law, Ron and Steve Kline; and sister-in-law, Sandy Buss.

Family and friends may call Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery in Pierceton, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Lela Marea Kline, memorial contributions may be made to McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana 46962, to assist with final expenses.

The family of Lela Marea Kline has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.