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BORN
1928
DIED
2016
Ernest Klein Obituary
March 14, 1928 - January 17, 2016
Resident of Sunnyvale
Ernest Gordon Klein, Jr. passed peacefully Sunday, January 17, 2016 at his Sunnyvale home surrounded by his two daughters.
Gordon was born in Studio City, California on March 14, 1928 to Ernest Gordon Klein, Sr. and La Noir Beatrice Searle; their only child. He met the love of his life, Shirley Anne Smith on a blind date in 1948. They were married on June 11, 1949, and enjoyed nearly 66 years together before Shirley passed in March 2015.
Gordon was a Navy veteran having served twice in the Korean War including a mission on the Destroyer USS Orleck. He was a man of many talents—building stereo "hi-fi" systems in the late 50's, woodworking, brick patio building, landscape design, and he always whistled while he worked. Some would say he was best known for his positive outlook on life, his storytelling and jokes.
Gordon began his career with Lockheed in 1955 in Van Nuys, California, relocating with Shirley and their two daughters, Jan and Julie, to Northern California, New Jersey and Florida before returning to the Bay Area where they made their home the last 48 years. Gordon retired in 1990 from Lockheed as a Program Engineer after 35 years and frequently said, "Lockheed was the best place to work."
In retirement, Gordon and Shirley enjoyed their grandchildren, great grandchildren, and an assortment of many four-legged canines. Gordon especially loved his family and dogs, the cabin they built in Pioneer California, playing bridge and the many friends and neighbors he met during relocations around the country, travels around the world, and through his work at Lockheed. He said many times, "I've had a wonderful life and wouldn't change a thing."
Gordon is survived by his two daughters, Jan Moncallo, Julie Hall (Dave); grandchildren Marisa, Doug, Greg, DonRe, Lauren and Erica; great grandchildren, nieces and a nephew.
Family and friends are invited to Gordon's Celebration of Life on Thursday, February 18, at 11am at Unity Palo Alto, 3391 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, 94306.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gordon's memory may be made to Humane Society Silicon Valley, 901 Ames Ave, Milpitas CA, 95035, or to charitable organizations of your preference.
View the online memorial for Ernest Gordon Klein, Jr.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ernest Klein
Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
3 Entries
Yvonne Smith
April 1, 2016
Gordon you were truly a great and wonderful man here on this earth and I know your legacy will carry on with you. I enjoyed everyday working with you I wish I would've been able to make it to say my final goodbye to you and your wonderful family I got to know. You will truly be missed and it's been more than a pleasure to have gotten to know you. My condolences to your family
Mark Bryant
February 17, 2016
I met Mr. Klein in Sunnyvale while attending high school and College with his future son-in-laws Bernie & Dave. I remember Mr. Klein as always being very professional and businesslike, yet with a genuine interest in what his daughters and their friends were doing with their lives. Mr. Klein was old school in that he talked about working hard, getting a good education and pursuing a career in something you enjoyed. My wife & I had the privilege of staying in the cabin that Mr. Klein built in the Sierras a number of times with his daughter Julie and son-in-law Dave, and the construction of the cabin was done with precision and wonderful craftsmanship. Mr. Klein was a wonderful Dad to Jan & Julie and a friend to many.
Picnic In The Park
Jim Haynes
February 13, 2016
Gordon was one of the good guys. I have worked with him for over 40 years and he was always an inspiration and avid supporter of our customers needs and the companies quest for perfection. I will always remember his smile and cooperative nature in our association and our good times with the Picnics in the park.
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