Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1927
DIED
2025
Gene Klein Obituary
Gene was born Oct. 8, 1927, in Oconto, Neb., to Daisy Klein and Edd Klein.
He grew up on a farm during the Great Depression, a time that shaped his resilience and hardworking spirit.
Towards the end of World War II, Gene served with pride in the United States Navy.
After his service, he returned to Nebraska, where he met and fell in love with LeEtta Johnson. The two married, building a life together filled with love and companionship.
In 1956, Gene and LeEtta moved to California, where they established their new home.
Gene retired from Union Oil Co. in 1989 after 23 years of service, a testament to his dedication and work ethic.
Known for making friends wherever he went, Gene's kindness, generosity and humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His selfless nature and radiant smile-capable of lighting up any room-made him a joy to be around.
For Gene, family always came first. He took immense joy in his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with them. Talking, playing, cheering at their sporting events, or watching their school performances.
His devotion to his family was unwavering, and he never missed an opportunity to show his love and support.
Gene will be remembered as a beacon of positivity, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter and deep familial connection.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife LeEtta Klein; son Matthew Klein; parents Daisy and Edd Klein; brothers Donald Klein and Jim Klein; and sister Kathleen Nelson.
He is survived by his sons Gary Klein and Tracy Klein; daughters Elizabeth Hicks, Terry Bench and Jeniel Gomez; and his brother Clifford Klein; along with 12 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren who will carry his love forward.
A memorial service was held at 12 p.m. on March 14, at the Long Beach Recreation Golf Course Ballroom, 5001 Deukmejian Dr, Long Beach, Calif.
A graveside service will be held in Callaway, Neb., with details to be determined later the year.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation, which supports veterans and their families, in Gene's memory, honoring his service and generous heart.
Visit garysinisefoundation.org to contribute.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gene Klein
4 Entries
Artur
March 13, 2025
He made the best beef jerky in the world!
Arlene Eastburn
March 13, 2025
I will surely miss Gene. He was my brother-in- law, but I claimed him as the brother I never had. He was a great addition to our family when he married my sister.
Steve Stame
March 11, 2025
I am deeply saddened to hear of Gene´s passing. He was truly a kind and warm-hearted person who made everyone feel like family. Gene´s friendliness, generosity, and welcoming nature left an impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence will be greatly missed, but his kindness and the memories he shared with his family and friends will live on forever. My heart goes out to the Klein family during this difficult time.
The Stame Family
Tracy A Klein
March 11, 2025
Feel free to share any photos you may have.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Gene Klein's name
Memorial Events
for Gene Klein
How to support Gene's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gene Klein's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
