It is with great sadness and broken hearts that the Klein family announces that Thomas (Tom) Eldred Klein received his angel wings unexpectedly April 13, 2022, at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA at age 75.
Tom was married to the love of his life Linda for 35 blessed years on February 14,1987...ever the romantic...it was Tom’s desire to be married on Valentine’s Day. Upon their retirements he and Linda relocated from Redmond, WA to Sequim, WA in 2018. Here he found his idyllic heaven on earth. Tom loved his home and his yard, which he maintained in a park like setting. His “to do” list, which was usually at least 2 pages long, was updated every day...he loved to be busy and “get ‘er done”. He was an avid performance car and motorcycle enthusiast. Completing his first solo flight in1998, he always wished to pursue more aircraft interests. Scuba diving, sailing, hiking, golfing and tinkering were also among his many passions. He traveled the world extensively and loved discovery.
Tom loved being a father to Chris and grandfather to Stella and Ellery....he was very proud of his entire family. His approach to life was very holistic with focus on overall health, both mentally and physically. He was forever investing in his own personal development. No matter what challenge came his way or anyone else’s....he would always say “Everything will be OK” and he would move mountains to make it OK. Tom had an insatiable quest for knowledge that he loved to share. While he disliked being called a perfectionist, it was one of his great strengths. Everything he did was done with great pride and he always enjoyed the sense of accomplishment. Tom loved hugging...when he hugged you...it usually lingered and you knew it was heart felt.
He was a very proud Veteran and Patriot who served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Oriskany, the Mighty O during Vietnam as an Aviation Electronics Specialist and member of the VA- Saints 163. He received an honorable discharge in 1967. His pride of country ran deep to his heart and he proudly displayed the American flag to honor freedom, dignity, and the true meaning of being an American.
Tom’s expansive career spanned many disciplines over more than 30 years to include positions in sales, engineering, network design, IT solutions and project management. His technical career began with Pacific Northwest Bell and progressed to PACCAR, Boeing and ultimately Independent Consultant.
Tom is survived by his beloved and devoted wife Linda, son Chris (Andrea) Klein, grandchildren Stella and Ellery Klein, sister Terri (Doug) Wiley, brother Tim (Darlene) Klein, multiple aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother Rose Ann (Strazzulla) Klein and his father Eldred (Al) Klein.
There will be a Celebration of Life July 30, 2022, in Sequim, WA. For additional details please contact a family member closer to the date. Linda requests donations to the local Captain Joseph House Foundation in lieu of flowers. https://captainjosephhousefoundation.org
Ever remembered and loved Tom lived his life to the fullest and left his mark on the world by the difference he made in the lives of those he touched and loved.
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was; and spirit shall return unto God who gave it. Ecclesiastes 12:7
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 36:7
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WORDS TO DESCRIBE TOM BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Perfect Husband, Loving Father, Grandfather, Loved Family, Friend
Patriotic, Loyal, Playful, Gentle Teddy Bear, Diligent, Caring
Unassuming, Genuine, Sincere Authentic, Present, Adventuresome
Kind, Wisdom, Warm Thoughtful, Loving, Welcoming, Unselfish
Spiritual, Consistent Expressive, Inquisitive, Expressive, Perfectionist
Dependable, Honest Honorable, Unpretentious, Considerate, Trusting
Awesome, Open Hearted, Resourceful, Calm, Forgiving, Non-Judgmental
Compassionate, Competent Admirable, Creative, Handsome, Smart
Devoted, Best Hugger, Accomplished, Passionate, Holistic, Never Complicated
Health Conscious, Gentleman, Loved Life, Funny, Quirky, Sense of Humor
Confident, Wanted to Make a Difference, Trustworthy, Respectful, Charismatic
Avid Biker, Car Enthusiast, Irreplaceable, Classy, Energetic, Appreciated
Protector of All, Quest of Knowledge
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