William L. Klei
William L. Klei, born on February 12, 1945, in Detroit, MI, to Roy and Virginia Klei, passed on July 22, 2023. Bill, as he was affectionately known to his friends and family, was not one to seek the limelight, but his life was marked by quiet excellence and precision in all that he did.
Bill graduated from Charlotte High School in 1963, where he was a standout on the baseball team, earning the admiration of his peers. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Western Michigan University until he joined the Army and served during the Vietnam war.
After his military service, Bill worked for DBI Office Furniture in Jackson and Lansing. As a salesperson and designer, he put his meticulous nature to good use, ensuring that his work was always of the highest quality.
After he retired Bill spent his time fixing everything from household odds and ends to the tractors on his farm. In his earlier years he excelled in cross country motorcycle racing in northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, earning awards and trophies for his accomplishments. He also was a great Dart player – throwing darts at competitions throughout Michigan.
When not busy with work or fixing things, Bill loved spending time with his friends, often gathering around his BBQ and smoker to prepare mouthwatering delicacies. Whether it was a family birthday celebration or any other festivity, Bill was the go-to person for orchestrating the food, making sure that everyone left with full hearts and satisfied appetites.
Bill was an active member of the community, dedicated to serving and supporting his fellow veterans and neighbors. He was a proud member of the Charlotte Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3552, where he found camaraderie and a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals. Bill’s commitment to honoring and remembering his fellow service members led him to be an esteemed member of both the Maple City VFW Post 2406 in Charlotte and the Charlotte American Legion Greenawalt-Flaherty Post 42.
Bill is preceded in death by his mother, Virginia; and his stepfather, Ed Simek; his father, Roy Klei of Detroit, MI; and his loyal dog, Becky. Bill is survived by his sister, Marilyn Uhl; fiancée, Nancy Granger; his beloved dog, Sammy; and numerous cousins, and many friends, all of whom will cherish the memories of this remarkable man. His legacy will continue through the lives he touched and the memories he left behind.
A Memorial Life Celebration will be held at the Charlotte Eagles 3552 on August 6, 2023, 1:00 p.m. as we come together to honor the life of this humble yet extraordinary individual. Those who wish to pay tribute to Bill’s memory can make contributions to the Charlotte Eagles Aerie 3552 or share memories on his tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com.