He graduated from Brookland–Cayce High School where he excelled as a member of the glee club and varsity football team. Following his marriage to his wife of nearly 75 years, Doris Sites, he had a varied career, first as the manager of several gas stations in the Cayce-West Columbia area, and then in sales with the Westinghouse Corporation. In 1966, he entered a new venture with his father to form an automotive parts and accessories distributorship that became the Kleckley Distributing Co., which he owned and managed for over 15 years.
Throughout his life, he was a loving husband, dedicated father to four sons, faithful and active member of several Lutheran churches, and cherished friend to many. He was known for his resourcefulness in finding a solution for any problem, a fix for anything that needed repair, and making for himself things that otherwise could be bought. He loved fishing, traveling, especially in his camper and motor home with friends, and anything connected to Lake Murray, a love that he also instilled in his family. He will always be known for his generous spirit and sense of humor, both of which he demonstrated in abundance until his last day.
He is survived by his wife, Doris Sites Kleckley; sons, Dr. Stephen H. Kleckley, Dr. Russell C. Kleckley (Julianne), and Jeffrey B. Kleckley; granddaughter, Elizabeth Kleckley and her mother, Margaret Gifford Kleckley; daughter-in-law, Toni Lewis Kleckley (Philip); sisters, Betty Joe Crider and Carolyn Smith; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his son, Philip R. Kleckley, and daughter-in-law, Regina Kleckley (Stephen).
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church, 101 E Boundary St, Chapin, SC 29036, with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church.
The family extends its deep thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Lexington Medical Center and to the care givers of Heart of Hospice for their dedicated care and support.
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Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church101 E Boundary St, Chapin, SC 29036, Chapin, South Carolina 29036
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