Loren “Yogi” Dale Kliven

August 9, 1941 – August 6, 2026

Loren “Yogi” Dale Kliven went to be with the Lord on August 6, 2026, just three days before his 85th birthday.

Yogi was born on August 9, 1941, in Osage, Iowa, the 11th child out of 13, born to Olie and Leila (Britton) Kliven. He attended school in Waverly, Iowa, and grew up working on farms throughout his younger years. During his school years, Yogi sang in the choir and participated in football, track, and baseball. It was on the baseball and football field, where he earned many awards, and but the baseball field is where he received the nickname “Yogi.”

In 1960, Yogi married Sharon Trebil of Mason City, Iowa. They were blessed with a son, Dale, and a daughter, Tammy. Although that marriage later ended, Yogi soon found love with Mary Benton of Rockford, Illinois. Many in the family often wondered whether Yogi first fell in love with Mary or with her daughters, Tracy and Darcy. He became part of their lives when they were very young, and they never knew a life without him as their father. His love for all of his children remained strong until the day he passed.

Yogi later met Janet Armstrong, and they were married in 1994. Through Janet, he welcomed three adult children and their grandchildren into his life, sharing with them the same love and generosity he gave to his own children. Yogi and Janet remained married until her passing in 2020.

A man of many talents, Yogi could accomplish nearly any task placed before him. He was a well-known master craftsman in Florida and California, completing work for many actors, actresses, and up-and-coming millionaires of his time. Over the years, he also worked in road construction and factories, drove semi-trucks, welded, and worked as a lobster fisherman. He was best known, however, for his exceptional construction skills and the quality of his work.

Yogi also loved spending time with his horses. He loved, raised and trained them for the racetrack, where he enjoyed his great successes. Despite his many accomplishments, his family and children always meant the most to him.

He shared a special bond with each of his children.

He called Tracy “Sissy” and shared his love of chocolate or a sweet treat with a cup of coffee after a nice meal.

Darcy, who he called “Stink,” he would never turn down Darcy’s challenge to a foot race or a game of football scramble. Though Darcy tried her best he always won, we don't know how Yogi could keep pace with her long legs. He passed his strong work ethic and belief that she could do anything a boy could do—and perhaps do it even better—on to Darcy. She was truly a daddy’s girl.

He called Tammy “Kike-Bike,” and the two shared a deep love of horses and the ocean. Their relationship was open and nonjudgmental, and they could talk for hours about anything and everything.

His son Dale, whom he affectionately called “Pale Dale,” shared Yogi’s love of sports, hunting, fishing, and perfecting his craftsmanship. These were among the many interests they enjoyed together.

Yogi is survived by his children: Tracy (Kevin) Lloyd of Casper, Wyoming; Dale (Kim) Kliven of Manly, Iowa; Darcy Kliven of Casper, Wyoming; and Tammy Kliven of Story City, Iowa. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and their spouses, 11 great-grandchildren, his sister Darlene Thompson, and many nieces and nephews, several of whom were among his closest friends throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olie and Leila Kliven; 11 of his 12 siblings; his son-in-law, Brian Scott Gamroth; and his wife, Janet Kliven.

Yogi’s hardworking spirit, quick witted personality, humor, generosity, and unconditional love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many lives he touched.

Services for Yogi will be held Friday August 14th, 2026, at 11:00 am at Bustards Funeral Home. Reception to follow funeral service. Family will hold a private grave side burial at Highland Cemetery.