Dr. George M. Klingner Jr.

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Central High School Drury University

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Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte

4500 S Lone Pine Road

Springfield, Missouri

George Klingner Obituary

Dr. George M. Klingner, Jr.

George Malcolm Klingner, Jr, MD passed away, suddenly, on January 16th in Springfield, Missouri at the age of 78. Born in 1937 to Malcolm and Ursalee Klingner, Dr. Klingner graduated from Central High School, attended Drury College and belonged to the Sigma Nu fraternity. During these studies, he served in the US Navy Reserve. Dr. Klingner graduated from University of Missouri Medical School, and completed his post graduate training at Kansas City General. He joined his father in internal medicine practice at The Morton Building in Springfield. Dr. Klingner served as physician for the Fair Haven Children's Home and also provided medical services to the Boy Scouts and the Sertoma boys' boxing events. After retirement from private practice, Dr. Klingner served as the Medical Director at the Medical Center for Federal Prisoners. Subsequently, his final practice was at the Ozark Correctional Center in Fordland. He married the love of his life, Sharan Leslie Elliott, with whom he celebrated forty nine years of marriage and raised three wonderful children. In addition to the practice of medicine, George and Sharan enjoyed many and varied interests together, some of which include worldwide travel, breeding dogs and enjoying nature. A prolific reader, George was a particular aficionado of military history. He particularly loved singing in a barbershop quartet, performing before Ronald Reagan in their group, "Four on the Floor", as well as a choral group. Dr. Klingner remains fondly remembered by his many beloved friends. Interestingly, one of these was Jim Owens, originator of the float trips on the White River. The two of them were written into "The Beverly Hillbillies" as authentic Ozarkian culture characters. Dr. Klingner was preceded in death by his parents and his younger sister, Joan Derrough Smith. He is survived by his wife Sharan; his children Cheri Klingner & Ray Winton of Houston, TX, Michael & Lisa Klingner of Branson, MO, Mary Beth & Greg Campagna of Baton Rouge, LA; grandchildren Austin and Caleb Klingner, and Ryan and Caroline Campagna; Also his two nieces and their spouses Dr. David Randall and Dr. Shelly Derrough and Dr. John and Jennifer Essman.

A celebration of life is scheduled at Twin Oaks Country Club for Friday, January 22 from 6-8 p.m.. A private family graveside service shall be scheduled subsequently.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully appreciated for The Wounded Warrior Project, the Fair Haven Children's Home, Strafford, MO or the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri.

Online condolences may be made at www.klingner-rivermonte.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News-Leader from Jan. 20 to Jan. 22, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for George Klingner

10 Entries

Stephen Tillery

January 21, 2016

You could always go into his office at MCFP and ask a question and he was glad to not only give you an answer but explain it to you. I remember talking about the military and the movies that had been made about it and listening to stories he had read. I can also remember him singing. He was a kind man and missed by all the staff when he left out there. It was a blessing to know him and may God bless and comfort you during this time!

Bert Adams

January 21, 2016

I first met George when he, as a junior high student, was leading a class of grade school boys, including me, in exercises at the YMCA. As I recall, he did an outstanding job. Years later, upon my return to Springfield he became my doctor and a close friend. River canoeing, golfing, travel, wonderful dinners with our friends, lively conversations with drink and cigars are all fondly remembered. His love of family, country and knowledge of our history and military were always evident in our talks. I feel very fortunate for having had George as a friend and, along with many others, will miss him.

Dan Rich

January 20, 2016

From the first time I met and came to know George, he welcomed and made me feel a part of the family. That was many years ago now but I have always held him closely in my heart for that kindness. A gentleman he was, and miss him we will.

Mike DeLapp

January 20, 2016

George's upbeat personality and friendliness has always impressed me ever since we were classmates in high school.

Ted and Nancy Edson

January 20, 2016

Shelly/Jenny and family,

So sorry for your loss. I know you thought a lot of your Uncle.

Mickey Lloyd

January 20, 2016

I was both shocked and saddened to learn of George's passing. I am grateful for our friendship which goes back to the 4th grade when we lived only a few doors apart. That friendship continued through high school and when we both went to Drury and later when we both got on with our lives. We still kept in touch from time to time. I always admired his ready smile and zest for life. I had a great visit with George last fall at our Central High School class reunion. What a nice man. I am so thankful for the times we had together and the good memories we shared.
May his family and all his friends feel GOD'S loving embrace at this time.

Mickey Lloyd

Carol Mihalevich

January 20, 2016

George was a true warrior so it's only fitting he would want Wounded Warriors to be remembered in his name. A gentleman, loved Sharan & family, great respect for his Country and a friend. We too feel this loss. Blessings Don & Carol Mihalevich

Susan Slous

January 20, 2016

Dr. Klingner always had time to share a smile or answer a question. He was truly appreciated and respected by the staff at MCFP and was sorely missed after retiring. My sincere condolences to his family.

Gerald Nichols

January 20, 2016

George was always a gracious,friendly person to me as a pharm. rep calling on him as well as his Dad.
Good down to earth men.

John Kinloch

January 20, 2016

I was greatly saddened to learn about George this morning. I was a childhood friend of George and lived in the same neighborhood as kids growing up. Although I have only seen George at High School reunions over the past years, I have followed his career and many of his successes. May God bless George and his family at this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.

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