Lawrence Philip Kleven

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lawrence "Larry" Kleven, a beloved husband and father, devoted grandfather, and accomplished design engineer, who peacefully left this world on August 5th at the age of 77 after a brief, courageous battle with cancer. Larry was born on May 4th, 1946 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Bernice Edith (Siney) Kleven and Harold Stanley Kleven. He was a devoted husband to the late Margaret Elaine Kleven (Cotton).

Larry graduated from Middletown High School in 1965 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy until 1976. Following his service, he embarked on a career at Texas Instruments in Attleboro, MA, while simultaneously pursuing a degree in engineering at Roger Williams University. His determination and dedication led him to a long and successful career as a design engineer at Texas Instruments and later Sensata Technologies, before retiring in 2008.

Throughout his life, Larry's strong faith served as a guiding light. For over 35 years, he was a devoted parishioner of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Pawtucket, RI, where he actively contributed by serving on the Vestry and participating in various committees. Upon relocating to Florida, Larry continued his spiritual journey as an active parishioner at St. John the Divine in Wimauma and later St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Tampa.

Larry's dedication to service extended beyond the church walls. He was a dedicated mentor at Brennan Middle School (Attleboro, MA) for many years and a proud member of the South Attleboro Lions Club. He enjoyed a variety of hobbies including wood-carving, card playing, and cruising with his beloved wife, Peggy. Larry will forever be remembered for his patience, compassion, sense of humor, and his distinctive Dr. Seuss-inspired eyebrows, as well as his enduring love for Mountain Dew.

As a husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Larry's dedication and generosity knew no bounds. He selflessly shared his time, interests, and expertise with his loved ones, offering guidance and always making time to lend a helping hand. His wisdom, support, and friendship will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Larry was predeceased by his cherished wife of 53 years, Margaret "Peggy" Kleven. He is survived by his daughters, Kimberly Headland (Richard) of Tampa, FL, and Tracy Kleven Gebhardt (Steven) of Summerville, SC, and five adoring grandchildren: Jack, William, and Ana Headland, and Quinn and Ruby Gebhardt.

A celebration of Larry Kleven's life will be held on Thursday September 7, 2023 from 5:00PM to 8:00PM at Blount and Curry Life Event Center, where family and friends are invited to gather and remember a life well-lived. A future joint service to honor both Larry and Peggy Kleven will be held Saturday September 30, 2023 at 11:00AM in the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 670 Weeden St. Pawtucket, Rhode Island, followed by interment at Moshassuck Cemetery in Central Falls, Rhode Island. On-Line condolences can be given to the family at www.blountcurrymacdill.com.