Michael J. KLEIN

KLEIN,
Michael J.

Michael J. Klein, beloved husband of 54 years of Dianne M. Klein departed our lives on November 25, 2017 due to complications from heart failure. Mike will be remembered for his love of family, strong work ethic, sense of humor, life-long friendships and concern for others. Mike was born June 4, 1940 in Vancouver, WA. Mike attended Central Catholic High School; he earned his Eagle Scout award as well as the Al Atare Dei award. Mike earned his business degree from Gonzaga University and Masters in Marketing from University of Nevada-Reno. He served in the Army for two years and was also an officer. Following this service, Mike worked for the Pacific Telephone Company and then spent the rest of his career at Cominco American and then Agrium Fertilizers in Calgary, Alberta, Canada as Vice President of Human Resources. He was the author of two books, a bucket list goal. Contributing to the community was important to Mike and he gave back by being involved with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, many years serving others in the Catholic Church, mentoring young people as they began their careers, serving on the Sacred Heart Hospital Board, Chamber of Commerce and Medical Service Corporation Board. Mike also trained to mediate and advocate for children's rights during divorce proceedings in Canada and went above and beyond to help the parents mend their communication gaps toward the greater good of the family. Mike's greatest joy was time spent with his family. Time spent at the lake, at the movies, laughing and hanging out with Dianne, Mary, Rich and Michelle was golden. He took immense joy in his grandchildren; Christopher, Sarah and Grace. Holding them, reading them books and playing outside are just a few of the ways he showed his love for them. He always loved biking, running, cross country skiing, tennis and playing basketball. He was a Zag's basketball fan long before it was cool to be one! When Mike became disabled 15 years ago we heard countless stories of kindness he gave to others. We were overwhelmed by these stories of support and caring. Mike never needed credit for helping others; he just did what needed to be done. The family is incredibly grateful for the wonderful and loving care provided by his caregiver P. Andy Craig. The family also thanks Pat Shine and Gordon Budke for their help. We are also grateful to the many friends who stepped up to help us over the last 15 years. Deep gratitude to Don Curran for: weekly communion, compassionate prayers, and wise counsel, thus allowing Mike to maintain his abiding, life-long faith. He did this for 15 years. Mike was blessed with excellent medical care and we are grateful for Dr. Karen Stanek and Dr. Daniel Dionne. Special thanks to Msgr. Tim Murphy, a life-long friend of Mike's for continued friendship and for presiding over Mike's upcoming Funeral Mass. Mike is predeceased by his loving parents Ben and Helen Klein. He is survived by his loving wife Dianne (who cared for him at home for 15 years), daughters Mary (Rich, grandchildren, Sarah and Grace), Michelle (grandchild, Christopher), sister Patricia Carrico (Pat) and brother Bernard Klein, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mike will always be remembered for his loving kindness, the way he took care of his family and his strength. Mike's Funeral Mass will be celebrated December 5, 2017 at Our Lady of Fatima, 3327 S. Perry, at 10:00am with a reception to follow at Luna Restaurant. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Spokane.