Doris "Doree" E Klaus

Doris “Doree” Elaine Bell Klaus, age 77, gained her wings on February 8, 2026, at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Doree was born on September 25, 1948, in Agra, Kansas, a place she loved deeply and spoke of often. No matter where life carried her, Agra was always home in her heart, and she never missed a chance to say, “There’s no place like home.” She was the daughter of Charles and Ida Bell.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ken Klaus; her brother, Dean Bell; and her sister, Mary Lou Bell.

She is survived by her daughter, Angela Shuert; her son, Dennis Klaus and wife Sandy; and her cherished grandchildren: Travis Steuer and wife Rocio, Tiffany Steuer, Beau Lange, Curtis Klaus, Nickolas Klaus, Lorna Shuert, Le-Anne Shuert, Michael Wrenn, Damon Wrenn and wife Kaylee, and Katie Sutton and husband Mike. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy.

Doree dedicated over 25 years of her life to the Sedro-Woolley School District, where she was most fondly remembered for her time as a school librarian. She had a special way of making everyone feel welcome and valued. She was an active member of Skagit Valley Church of Christ, where she taught Sunday School and inspired many through her faith and kindness.

In 2022, Doree moved to North Carolina to be closer to family and became a member of Freedom Baptist Church. Wherever she went, laughter followed. Spunky, outgoing, a jokester, and a bit of a flirt, Doree was truly the life of the party in every room she entered.

She loved doing crafts and hobbies with her sisters-in-law, especially while drinking coffee and making cards. Known lovingly as “Mom Klaus” and “Grandma Doree”, she was affectionately compared to Dory from Finding Nemo for her bright spirit and unforgettable personality. She was also a collector of salt and pepper shakers, lighthouses, and everything Elvis. She often summed up her favorite moments with her signature phrase, “We had a blast.”

In her later years, Doree resided at The Landings of Rockingham, where she made many friends and danced at every opportunity. She was a devoted walker who once completed a 24-hour walking marathon, a proud foodie who especially loved ranch dressing, and a loyal fan of the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Wilkerson Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Freedom Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Ronnie Warner and Noah Hooper.

Doree’s laughter, faith, and unmistakable spirit will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, love, and connection, and a reminder that no matter how far we roam, there truly is no place like home.