Leroy Eugene Klink, 83, of Oak Park, Illinois, peacefully passed away on May 4, 2019.

Lee was born November 14, 1935 in Rockford, IA, to Joseph and Bernice (Otto) Klink and lived a life full of Love, Faith and Service.

A man from humble beginnings, at the age of 14 he took a job to help his mother raise a family of seven to enjoy better lives. He would go on to earn degrees from Rockford Highschool, Buena Vista University and then serve his country in the U.S. Army.

Upon moving to the Chicago area in 1960 he settled in Oak Park, IL, where he began a long career as a corporate Financial Analyst and became a lifelong member of Euclid Methodist Church. In Oak Park he would raise a family of his own and become actively involved in the fiber of the community. Leading his son’s Cub scout troop, managing the OPRF 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 contribute to over 30 years of volunteer work for those in need with local food pantries and shelters.

Known by many as “Colonel” Klink, he had an infectious energy, out-going 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 is survived by his wife Susan Terry, his three children, Michael, Steven (Jennifer) and Sherri (Marty), his five grandchildren, Eleanor, Audrey, Andrew, Alexander and Natalie, and siblings JoAnne, Gerald and Jon.

Memorial Service, Saturday, May 18th, 11 a.m. at Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church, 405 S. Euclid Ave., Oak Park. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church, Animal Care League, Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry, or OPRF Huskie Booster Club are appreciated.

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