James Lewis Klinker

James Lewis Klinker, age 83, of Van Wert died at 12:30 PM Wednesday at Vancrest Healthcare.  He was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a son of Ernest & Alice (Kochert) Klinker, both of whom are deceased.   On March 24, 1957 he married Alice "Joan" Shaw and she died September 18, 2011. 

Surviving are 2 sons, Shawn (Cheryl) Klinker and Eric Klinker both of Van Wert.  Also surviving are 5 grandchildren, Kyle (Jen) Klinker, Allison (David) Klinker, Gretchen Klinker, Cody Klinker, Courtney Klinker and a great grandson, Declan Klinker.  He is also survived by 3 brothers, Terry (Linda) Klinker,  William (Linda) Klinker and Lynn (Jeanie) Klinker and 1 sister, Charlotte McCowan.

Preceding him in death were, 1 son, Bruce Allen Klinker, 1 brother, Garth Klinker and 1 sister, Beverly Ann Gumm.

Jim retired from Aeroquip in Van Wert in 1994 where he was employed for 35 years.  He was in the last graduating class at Union High School in 1952.  He served in the U S Army from 1955 to 1958 and was stationed in Korea for most of his service.   Jim  was a die hard Cleveland Indians and Browns fan.  He loved his family, all animals and never met a stranger.

Funeral sevices will be at 2:00 PM Sunday, August 5 at Brickner Funeral Home with Rev. William Klinker officiating.  Calling will be Saturday at the funeral home from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM and also 1 hour prior to services on Sunday.  Burial will follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

The family would like memorials to be directed to the Van Wert County Humane Shelter.

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