Robert Klein

Mr. Robert James Klein, 87, passed away in Hillman on December 14, 2021. Bob was born on August 20, 1934 in Rust Township to George and May (Wright) Klein as the youngest of seven boys all born at home on the Klein settlement. Bob married the late, Barbara Jean (Linseman) on September 11, 1954. They were married for 63 years. He devoted the last eight of those years caring for her in their home after she suffered a debilitating stroke. His commitment to her was steadfast and honorable; when she and the rest of the family needed him the most, he took on the selfless role of caregiver, doing his best to perform domestic tasks outside his comfort zone.

Bob was a licensed master plumber and spent 47 years in plumbing and heating. He and his brother Carl worked for Bearss Heating Company for 11 years before starting Klein Brothers Heating and Plumbing in 1966. He retired in 2002 and the business was sold. He continued to put his expertise to good use by helping others with projects, even if it only involved giving advice from his recliner or the other end of the phone. Bob was an active outdoorsman who especially enjoyed rifle hunting, trout fishing, snowmobiling, watching Nascar, and listening to old country music. He wrote everything down in cursive either on a calendar or a log, creating a historical timeline of life events, major purchases, gas prices, and weather conditions. His affection toward his family was expressed not only by preparing birthday cards for the grandkids and gifting his prized possessions, but especially in the form of standing up to offer a goodbye hug even once his strength failed him.

He is survived by a daughter, Anita (Timmy) Benac; son, Keith (Vicki) Klein, both of Hillman; daughter, Laurie (Brad) Nugent of Lachine; grandchildren, Lisa (Dale) Appelgren, Timothy (Winyan) Benac, Neil (Lindsey) Klein, Aaron (Amy) Klein, Krista (Jamie) Weiland, Blaise Nugent, Alayna Nugent, Tori Klein, and Maci Klein. He is also survived by nine great-grandchildren, Riley Appelgren, Jozie Appelgren, and Brody Appelgren; Oliver Benac and Elodie Benac; Wynter Klein and Cullen Klein; and Aubrey Weiland and Grayson Weiland. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and six brothers, Max, Nelson, Richard, Lloyd, Harold, and Carl.

Funeral services for Mr. Klein will take place at 1:00 PM on Monday, December 20, 2021 at Green Funeral Home, Hillman; Marsha Marquardt officiating. Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM until time of service. Interment will take place in the Spring at Hillman Rust Township Cemetery where Bob will be laid to rest. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Montmorency County Counsel on Aging (MCCOA).