For Pat and Sue Klemens, Scouting is more than a program — it is a lifelong investment in young people and the communities they serve. Through decades of volunteer leadership, family involvement, and financial support, the Klemenses have lived the promise of Scouting and continue to give back so others can do the same.
Pat’s Scouting journey began as a Cub Scout with an exceptional Den Leader who helped shape his early experiences. As he moved into Boy Scouts, monthly campouts, strong adult leadership, and the chance to share Scouting alongside his father left a lasting impression. One of his fondest memories remains walking the trails of Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan with his dad — and years later, walking those same trails with his own sons.
Sue also grew up in Scouting as a Girl Scout, led by her mother. Those early experiences of service, friendship, and activity helped lay the foundation for the role Scouting would later play in their family life.
When their oldest son was six, Pat and Sue attended a Cub Scout welcome meeting — and that night, both parents joined right alongside him. What followed was a family adventure that would span decades. They led dens, supported pack activities, and watched as both sons earned the Arrow of Light before crossing over into Troop 96. Each boy thrived in the program, ultimately earning the rank of Eagle Scout and remaining active until age eighteen.
Scouting was truly a family experience for the Klemenses. Together, they attended the Philmont Training Center twice — trips Pat calls “Scouting paradise” and among the highlights of their family life. Over the years, Sue served as Pack Treasurer and Activities Chair, became the District Training Chair, and led the District’s Winter Challenge for several years. Pat dedicated more than 30 years as a Cubmaster and Scoutmaster, guiding countless youth along their Scouting journeys.
Even after their sons aged out, Pat and Sue stayed deeply connected. Pat has served as Council Training Chair, Vice President of District Operations, and a member of the Executive Board. “People served in these roles before me,” he says. “I believe it’s important that I do my part to help ensure the future of Scouting.”
Their belief in Scouting comes from seeing its impact firsthand. Pat has had former Scouts return years later to share how Scouting prepared them for life — from acing job interviews to stepping confidently into leadership roles. For the Klemens family, those lessons hit close to home. One son landed his first job because an employer was impressed by his Eagle Scout project. The other, Pat jokes, won over the woman who is now his wife because he knew how to cook — and clean up afterward.
With so many memories, it’s hard for Pat to choose favorites: first Cub Scout campouts, Pinewood Derby cars built together, Philmont treks (three of them), National Jamborees, Wood Badge staff service, hosting Scouts from Guatemala at Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan, and awarding Eagle Scout rank to 78 young men — including his own sons.
For Pat and Sue, giving back to Scouting is both a privilege and a responsibility. And their message to potential supporters of the Northeast Illinois Council is clear and heartfelt:
“The opportunity to have a positive impact on the life of a young person is fleeting. Don’t let it pass you by.”