Jack Bruce Klein, 72, of Grand Rapids, found peace on May 17, 2021. He passed quietly, surrounded by his wife of nearly 45 years, and eight children, who were his greatest pride.
He was born May 22, 1948 in Massillon, Ohio to parents Elmer Frances and Wilma Eileen, who preceded him in death. He grew up in Massillon, and was a proud member of the Tiger Swing Band where he played the cornet. He later graduated with a degree in chemistry from Case Western Reserve and began a career in science in Ada, bringing him to Michigan.
On July 3, 1976, he wed wife Susan (McKellar) and nine short months later, was a father to his first daughter, of several. After the birth of his sixth daughter, he is remembered to have said, "Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would have so many women to love me." He did then have a son, followed by the last child of 8, another daughter.
He will always be remembered as the go-to for any weird question- if he didn’t already know the answer, he would find out- in excessive detail. His smile was broad and bright, and shone through crystal blue eyes that would weep with pride over every accomplishment of his children and many grandchildren. Aside from family, he loved all the dogs and grand-dogs. He could often be found exploring the inner workings of a computer, working on his yard plants, tackling his honey-do list, or napping with his hand tucked under his chin in a recliner- usually with a grandchild on his shoulder. We will be finding his secret chocolate stashes for a long time to come.
He is survived by his wife Susan (McKellar) Klein, children Shannon (James) Lynch, Leslie (Jeremy) Wolf, Stacy (Adam) Smelker, Ashley (Adrian) Stanciel, Justine Klein, Shelby (John) Kissane, Jordan Klein, Kurianne Klein, 18 grandchildren, and one brother, Terry (Karen) Klein.
A small memorial visitation will be held on May 24 from 6:30-8:30 at Beckwith Hills Church, 2100 Chelsea Rd NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. The wearing of masks is mandatory.
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