Retired teacher and lifelong learner Reda "Ailene" Klotz passed away on July 26, 2023 at the age of 84 after a lengthy and courageous battle with multiple medical issues. She was surrounded by devoted family and friends who will honor her memory by continuing to live lives filled with love, integrity, and purpose, just like Ailene did.

Ailene was born to Jessie and Paul Durrett on April 27, 1939 in Cornucopia, Oregon. After graduating from San Jose State University, Ailene moved to Vacaville to become a high school teacher. She shared her passion for learning with children and adults for over 40 years. She married Ron Klotz on August 5, 1962, only six months after meeting him at the local bowling alley. They were married for 38 years when Ron died in early 2001.

She is survived by her children, Wendy (Sean), Kristina (Charles), Kelly (Bob), Eric (Tracey), and Kevin (Madlen); grandchildren, Nolan, Riley, Zoe, Blake, Tucker, Jack, Grady, Christian, Ethan, Justin, and Mikaele; great-grandchild, Teyvin; brother, Dale (Jennifer); and many nephews, nieces, and "adopted" daughters all who she loved dearly.

One of her greatest joys was spending time in the kitchen cooking meals and baking goodies for friends and family. Her grandchildren loved her baked ziti and her flourless chocolate cake was a favorite of everyone who was lucky enough to get a slice. To Ailene, family was the most important thing in the world, and she loved sitting around a table playing Train, Yahtzee, or Skip-Bo late into the night.

In addition to being a fierce advocate for women's rights and Democratic causes, Ailene volunteered as a 4-H leader, for the Vacaville Museum Guild, and at the Church of the Epiphany for many years. Ailene was always up for an adventure and enjoyed traveling all around the world. Thailand was her favorite.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on August 26, 2023 at the Church of the Epiphany (300 West Street) in Vacaville. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Kidney Fund (​​https://www.kidneyfund.org/) on behalf of Ailene.