Edwin Kleparek

1929 - 2025

Edwin Kleparek

Edwin S. Kleparek, 96, of Berkey, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at The Grove Assisted Living.

Born in Toledo on January 19, 1929, Edwin was the youngest of six children and the only one born in the United States after his parents, Joseph and Stella Kleparek, immigrated from Poland. Deeply proud of his Polish heritage, he grew up in the historic Polish Kuschwantz neighborhood, where he attended St. Anthony's grade school.

Following his graduation from Macomber High School, Edwin continued his education at the University of Toledo, where he earned both a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering. He also obtained an Associate Degree in Electronics. With a passion for his field, he later taught Industrial Electricity for many years at his alma mater, Macomber High School, as well as the Cotter Apprentice School.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Edwin served during the Korean War at Fort Breckinridge and the Aberdeen Proving Grounds, where he was involved in munitions testing. He was a proud, contributing member of the Joseph W. Diehn American Legion Post for many years.

In 1959, Edwin married Shirley Tripp, and together they raised three children during their 61 years of marriage.

Professionally, Edwin was a dedicated Electrical Engineer, spending 30 years at Owens-Illinois before joining Finkbeiner, Pettis & Strout, where he worked until he retired at age 75.

A man of many talents, Edwin was a gifted artist, musician, and an avid sports enthusiast who enjoyed golf, tennis, and bowling. He and Shirley held season tickets for both the University of Toledo football and Lady Rockets basketball games. He was also a loyal fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes. On the day he passed, he was wearing his OSU T-shirt as his team beat Texas.

Edwin was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Stella; his siblings; his beloved wife, Shirley Kleparek; and his daughter-in-law, Laura Kleparek. He is survived by his children, Meg (Kevin) Desmond, Tim Kleparek (Lynn Browning), and Ted (Jami) Kleparek; as well as many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family extends its sincere appreciation to all the incredible staff at Care360 Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

Private funeral services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations, please honor

Edwin's memory by enjoying a jelly donut, a hotdog, a hamburger, or drinking a cold Budweiser in his name. Na zdrowie!

www.reebfuneralhome.com