Paul James Kleinmann, Jr., 82, of Mt. Juliet, TN, passed away on October 29, 2023. He was born on December 21, 1940, in Albany, NY, to the late Paul James Kleinmann, Sr. and Eleanor Hofaker Kleinmann. Paul served his country with distinction, dedicating a total of 33 years to various branches of the military. He served in the Marine Corps for 4 years, followed by 13 years in the Army National Guard, and finally, 16 years in the Air Force Reserves, achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant before retiring from the USAF. During his military service, Paul proudly participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
Paul also pursued his passion for education as a middle school social studies teacher, dedicating 30 years to shaping young minds. His commitment to his students and his love for teaching were evident in his work.
Paul was an active member of Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church in North Ft. Myers, FL, where he found solace and community. He cherished his time spent worshiping there.
Outside of his professional life, Paul had a variety of hobbies that brought him joy. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, camping, fishing, DIY home projects, attending children/grandchildren's sporting events, and occasional trips to the casino. He was also able to fulfill his dream of building a family cabin on a lake in east Tennessee.
Paul was known for his loyalty, dedication, and sense of humor. He had a knack for making people laugh and brightening their day with his jokes. He was a generous and hard-working individual who took great pride in his family and their accomplishments. His loyalty to his wife, Patricia Duffy Kleinmann, and his unwavering support for his children - Keith Kleinmann (Lisa), Craig Kleinmann (Christie), Valerie Compson (Chuck), and Dirk Kleinmann (Tabitha) - were paramount in his life. Paul also had a close bond with his siblings, Priscilla Herrick (Tom) and Phillip Kleinmann (Fadia), and cherished the time spent with them. He leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
Paul will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Christopher Kleinmann (Lexi), Alex Rivera (Luis), Caleb Kleinmann, Kinsley Kleinmann, Noah Kleinmann, Caroline Compson, Evan Kleinmann, Jonah Kleinmann, Rhys Compson, and Eden Kleinmann, and great grandson Oliver James Rivera. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Peter Kleinmann.
Visitation will be held Saturday November 4, 2023 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Service will follow at 1:00 PM at Hibbett & Hailey Funeral Home, located at 429 Donelson Pike, Nashville, TN 37214.
In honor of his dedicated service to his country and his unwavering commitment to education, Paul will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.
