Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association
KLAUER, William R.
KLAUER, William R. "Bill" (Dubuque, IA, Apr. 27, 1942--Dubuque, IA, Oct. 17, 2026) The son of William J. and Caroline R. (Conlon) Klauer. William R. attended Nativity grade school, LORAS COLLEGE and {[WAHLERT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL]]Wahlert Catholic High School. He graduated from LORAS COLLEGE where he earned his bachelor’s degree.
He served as President of KLAUER MANUFACTURING COMPANY immediately after college and never retired.
As a young entrepreneur, Bill ran a candy store in a former chicken coop in the family’s backyard. Bill’s profit margin would dip when his brothers helped themselves to the merchandise. During his college years, he worked at MODERN MUSICat 6th and Main Street in Dubuque selling records and phonographs. The owners liked and trusted Bill enough to toss him the keys to the shop when they left for winter vacations.
In his leisure time, Bill enjoyed boating and traveling, especially the 40-year traditional family vacation at Dairymen’s in Boulder Junction, WI. He also enjoyed many cruises and trips to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico with family and friends.
Bill was dedicated to serving the Dubuque community and believed strongly in giving back. He demonstrated this commitment through his involvement and served on the board of Clarke College Development Council, Nativity Church Parish, Rovers Club, DUBUQUE SHOOTING SOCIETY 990, COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF GREATER DUBUQUE, BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF GREATER DUBUQUE, Julien Dubuque Yacht Club, DUBUQUE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, and the BCI Group.