Merrill E. Kleinmann

Merrill E. Kleinmann, age 92, died peacefully the morning of August 21, 2024, with his beloved daughters at his side.
Merrill was born and raised in Oakwood, Wisconsin by his mother and father, Harold & Lenore Kleinmann. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in electrical engineering, Merrill was immediately hired by Boeing where he worked primarily in space and military for 34 years. Merrill took military leave in 1956, serving in Korea and Japan for nearly 2 years. Merrill remained in the Air Force reserves until 1972 when he was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain.
In 1963, Merrill married the love of his life, Annette. They moved to a brand-new neighborhood in the woods outside of Issaquah called High Valley. There they built their home on a beautiful, wooded acre where they started their family. Merrill raised his two daughters to be independent and capable. He provided all that they needed and much of what they wanted, always encouraging them to work hard, be honest and chase their dreams. Merrill was an avid outdoorsman. He loved his bird-dogs and enjoyed fishing, hunting, flying and scuba diving. He passed this down to his daughters teaching them to ride horses, catch lots of fish, shoot guns, and fly airplanes.
Merrill was a born "helper". He was the first to respond when a neighbor needed help and spent many hours helping those stranded in a ditch on a snowy day or clearing downed trees from blocked driveways. Merrill's legacy of leadership in his community is indelible. It was Merrill's initiative that brought the High Valley community together in the early 60's and led it to become the special and unique community it is today.
Merrill is survived by his two daughters, Dianne Thompson (Bob Thompson) and Elaine Olson (Dave Olson), two grandchildren, Mark Olson and Megan Haskell (Carson Haskell) a great grandson, Jude Haskell and a great granddaughter Selah Haskell.
The family will honor Merrill's life with a family graveside service at Tahoma National Cemetery.