William C. "Tadpole" Klunk

William "Tadpole" Klunk, 74, a lifelong resident of Downingtown, PA, passed away on February 20, 2026, at Pineview Nursing Center in Broomall, where he had been a resident since 2024. Prior to that, he resided at Harrison House in Coatesville.

Tadpole was born on June 7, 1951, in West Chester, PA, to Edward C. Klunk, Sr. and Mildred (Fenstermacher) Klunk. Tadpole as he is well known throughout the community got his nickname from his brother Edddie in 1958 and has stuck with him since. His brother grew weary of having to retrieve him from the creek where he could always be found fishing for tadpoles.

He was a proud graduate of Downingtown High School, class of 1969, where he made a name for himself as an all Chest-Mont Guard during his football years. His commitment to the game and his team left a lasting impact on his peers and coaches alike. Later in life his dedication to the game gave him the opportunity to coach under his longtime friend Michael Milano at both Penncrest and Unionville High Schools. Tadpole also coached at Downingtown Jr. High School where he coached his nephew.

After high school, Tadpole went on to play football at Shippensburg University, where he showed his athletic prowess. Following a career-ending injury, he transferred to Staunton Military Academy, where he continued to build his discipline and character. Tadpole eventually enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he became an accomplished stone mason while receiving training at West Point.

Tadpole was always the life of the party, with an infectious laugh that could light up any room. His warm heart, sense of humor, and love for life made him a beloved figure to all who knew him. His joy was contagious, and he never missed an opportunity to spread happiness to those around him. Tadpole's favorite holiday was Christmas, and he especially treasured family gatherings during the holidays, which were filled with love, laughter, and the joy of being surrounded by the people he cared about most.

He had a special relationship with his daughter who shares his infectious laugh and bright smile. Tadpole loved seeing her excel to become an education champion for children. Their bond was unbreakable. His stepson Jason was a source of pride and love as well.

He was also incredibly proud of his granddaughters, Ella and Emelia Ubele, and loved following their sports and activities. Tadpole was always the proud Pop Pop in the audience, cheering them on with boundless enthusiasm and love. His support and presence at their events brought joy and pride to them and to all who saw him. He loved playing with and watching Olivia and Finn grow and flourish and bring him such pleasure.

Tadpole's passion for mentoring youth was another defining part of his life. He was instrumental in coaching many DYW (Downingtown Young Whippets) teams, where he loved guiding kids not only in sports but in life lessons as well. His influence extended far beyond the wrestling mats, as he shaped the lives of many young athletes with his encouragement and wisdom.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Denise (Mattioni); daughter Amanda (Harry) Ubele; stepson Jason Riggin (Gklentiana); his sister Susan (Stephen) Fleck; four grandchildren who he loved dearly: Ella Ubele, Emelia Ubele, Olivia Riggin, and Finn Riggin; 12 nieces and nephews; and 26 great-nieces and nephews. Tadpole was predeceased by his five siblings: Ruth Ann (Toby) Graveno, Edward Klunk Jr. (Shirley), Kenneth Klunk, Sr (Barbara), James Klunk (Rosy), and John Klunk.

Tadpole will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy of love, mentorship, laughter, and boundless joy will continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who carry his memory forward. We ask that you carry his memory forward by sharing stories you may have of Tadpole with others that knew him and his love for life.

Services will be announced when finalized. We will update as soon as possible.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations to Downingtown Young Whippets PO Box 159 Downingtown, PA 19335 or Venmo @DowningtownYoungWhippets.