Leroy Eugene Klink, 83, of Oak Park, died peacefully on May 4, 2019. Born on Nov. 14, 1935 in Rockford, Iowa to Joseph and Bernice (Otto) Klink, he was a man of humble beginnings. At the age of 14, he took a job to help his mother raise a family of seven. He would go on to earn degrees from Rockford High School, Buena Vista University, and then serve his country in the U.S. Army.
He moved to the Chicago area in 1960 and settled in Oak Park, where he began a long career as a corporate Financial Analyst and became a lifelong member of Euclid Methodist Church. Here he raised his family and became actively involved in the fiber of the community. Leading his son’s Cub Scout troop, managing the OP-RF Booster Club finances, participating in local men’s softball and bowling leagues, and serving as head usher for his church, he was very active in life.
Later, he would add to over 30 years of volunteer work for those in need with his participation in local food pantries and shelters. Known by many as “Colonel” Klink, he had an infectious energy, outgoing spirit, and humbleness to life that was unavoidable. He was a force of nature, a force of undeniable goodness.
A simple man of means, he valued the love of family, fellowship of service, the constant attention of his grandkids, laughter with friends, a good day’s work, and a cold beer. He lived a life full of Love, Faith, and Service.
Leroy Klink is survived by his wife, Susan Terry; his children, Michael, Steven (Jennifer) and Sherri (Marty); his grandchildren, Eleanor, Audrey, Andrew, Alexander and Natalie; and his siblings, JoAnne, Gerald and Jon.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 18, at 11 a.m., at Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church, 405 S. Euclid Ave. in Oak Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church, the Animal Care League, the Oak Park-River Forest Food Pantry, or the OPRF Huskie Booster Club are appreciated.
