July 10, 1938 - June 21, 2010

MIDDLEBURY -- Ronald L. "Ron" Kleckner, 71, of Middlebury, passed away Monday (June 21, 2010) at 8:27 p.m. at Elkhart General Hospital, after an extended illness.

He was born on July 10, 1938, in Luna Pier, Mich., to Chester and Laura (Birch) Kleckner. On Oct. 5, 1969, he married Sandy S. (Nelson) Kleckner in Morristown, Tenn.

She survives along with son David (Monica) Tieman of New Palestine; two brothers, Norman Kleckner of Middlebury and David (Debbie) Kleckner of Gulf Port, Miss.; two grandchildren; three nephews, William Jr., Edward and James Kleckner; and several other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Thelma McKindrich and Patricia Hemphill, and five brothers, (infant) James, Robert, James, Thomas and William Kleckner.

Ron had formerly worked for Coachmen RV, Elkhart Rubber and Eby's Pines. He was a member of St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Bristol. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an avid New York Yankees fan.

The family will receive friends Sunday (June 27, 2010) from 3 to 7 p.m. at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Monday (June 28, 2010), also at the church. The Rev. Bob Van Kempen will officiate. Burial of his cremated remains will be in Oakridge Cemetery, Bristol, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 411 W. Vistula St., Bristol, IN 46507. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is entrusted with the arrangements.