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Florence Klewin Obituary
Florence was born June 29, 1944, the daughter of the late Woodrow Klewin and Marie Gould.
She is survived by her two children and their spouses, LaNae and David Atkinson of Mystic, and James and Celia Woolley of Ledyard; her three grandchildren, Kelsey Henderson, Wesley Woolley, and Chae Marie Woolley. She is also survived by her partner of 29 years, Charles "Chuck" Fellows; and her siblings, Woody Klewin, Linda Lee, Joy Klewin, Barbara Jean Klewin Dunbar, Alan "Butch" Whitford, Dawn Morel, Kim Jones, Cindy Raffo; and her many nieces and nephews.
Florence lived for a few years in Maryland where she worked for M&M Mars Candy Co. and in Florida, but she spent most of her life in Southeastern Connecticut, and always considered herself a resident of Mystic.
Everyone knew her as Flo, or "Mombo", the owner of Kitchen Little Restaurant of Mystic. Flo owned the restaurant for 28 years, and she was an amazing cook! Flo touched everyone who dined at Kitchen Little with her food and her love. She greeted you with her infectious smile and treated you like you were family, because you were family to her. She fed your belly as well as your soul. Flo was the most generous person, and she always put the needs of others before her own. There was always room for one more at her table. Her love of life was so apparent by her smile and the big hugs she had for everyone, helping others is what made her happy. Mombo was the heart and warmth of Mystic, everyone who knew her loved her.
Flo enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her three grandchildren, who she loved and adored. She cherished preparing holiday meals for family and friends. Flo enjoyed taking long walks with her sisters and friends, exercising daily, and listening to music and dancing. She also loved being on, in, or by the ocean, and enjoyed fishing with Chuck and her grandchildren, her annual vacation to Cabo San Lucas and her many vacation trips with her sister, Barbara Jean from "OHI" to Florida.
Flo would love to be remembered by her favorite saying, "No Bad Days", as she always felt that every day was a good day, regardless of what life dealt her.
There will be a Celebration of Her Life from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, 2013, at the Mystic Yachting Center in Willow Point at the Mystic Shipyard, 100 Essex St., Mystic. If you have one or two special photographs of Flo that would be appropriate for a video remembrance, please email them to [email protected] by Nov. 5, 2013.
The memorial service will be private for family members only.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made in her memory to Safe Futures (formerly The Women's Center of Southeast Connecticut), 16 Jay St., New London, CT 06320.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Florence Klewin
Suzanne H Edington
May 20, 2022
Know this is too little and way too late, but Flo was my neighbor and my friend. When my sister, son and I moved into our townhouse in Rockville, MD, she was our next door neighbor and our friend (among others that we had in common). It was a fairly close-knit community and I was grateful for all the "old-timers" who befriended us. LeeAnn was my babysitter during some of the most challenging times of my life. And she and Jim had the most memorable Halloween parties in the neighborhood. Of course, we lost touch in the years that followed, but I never will forget the good times we had. So sorry I've waited so long to try to find my old friends. Suzy (Howard) Edington. If anyone gets this note, please try to reach me. Love
Skuby
October 24, 2021
We are having a life celebration here in Cabo in your unit 2155. I know you are here with us, as you and your angel friends keep flying in and staying for the festivities. You and your beautiful Mothra friends are welcome here. Cheers Flo! We love you and miss you very much! BTW, Victor was very happy to enjoy a tuna sandwich which you so eloquently shared the recipe with me! Thank you!!!!
November 25, 2013
I met Flo through her sister, Joy, back in the 70s. She was working at the Pilot House Restaurant, which was owned by her mother in Stonington Village. Through this connection with me, Flo went to work for Bee Bee's Dairy, where I had worked for a long time. She was a real ball of fire with the most dazzling smile. She purchased Kitchen Little from Sue, another friend of mine, and made it “big” in the “little kitchen” from not only her wonderful attitude towards the world, but her great food. I was so fortunate to have met her. We were polar opposites, and this was a good thing for me. She gave me a new perspective on life in many ways and I'm so thankful to have known her. Even though I moved away from Mystic 30 years ago, I would always make a point of going to breakfast at Kitchen Little when I was visiting the area, just to see Flo.
The news just came to me this morning that this world has lost her. Her belief in God, nature and the natural order of things gives me comfort to know that she is okay, but I have a great sadness in my heart. The tears I cry are not for her, but for those of us she left behind. To all of Flo's family and friends, I'm so sorry that she left us too soon. She was a blessing and she never wasted a day, always sharing her infectious happiness with others. Perhaps that's why to her, there were “no bad days”.
Linda K. (Rehnback) Danesi Virginia Beach
November 15, 2013
Flo was a wonderful friend to me when I resided in Mystic and I loved her beautiful daughter and son. She will be missed by all...I have yet to have an omelet as good as Flo's! Love,
Anna Taylor Stadnick
Deland, FL
(-=< Ray Hamilton >=-)
November 12, 2013
Dear LaNae ‘n' David, James ‘n' Celia, and the entire Klewin Family,
I'm a friend of a mutual friend, Betty Hewitt, whose sister was a good friend of Flo's; Betty knows of my bereavement ministry and asked me to do this on behalf of her sister's friendship. Having lost both parents myself, I know, all too well, this very special a loss!
Understanding the hole left behind, regardless the inevitability or forewarning, pray this helps some wee bit...to allow...enable…the grief! So truly sorry to hear about Flo. At least now she's at peace with our Lord…definitely keepin' y'all in my prayers!
When my mother died, even after a years-long battle with cancer, I was shattered by the loss…inconsolable…she was my mentor! I like to think that I got my character from my father, but my mind and its capacity from m'dear sainted mother!!! BUT, "If your faith assures you she's in heaven, then what are the tears all about?!?" I hold eternity dearly close...a cherished, hard-won prize...but, in the interim, that answer lies below.
SELFISH TEARS
(I Eulogize My Beloved Mother - March, 1989)
Today we cry...must admit they're selfish tears.
You see...our faith assures your journey's done.
But it's not for you we mourn, at all, my dear;
It's for those of us you've left behind...alone!!!
We share your joy...share your happiness at rest,
Your painful fears now for forever stilled.
You've fought the good fight, passed the final test,
But you've left behind a hole that can't be filled!!!
So, until we each rejoin you some someday,
And, while your memory buoys us through those years,
We'll miss you...but continue on our way,
And, from time to time, we'll cry our selfish tears!!!
Ray Hamilton (c) March 19, 1989
My sincerest condolences and prayers,
Polly Chorlton
November 8, 2013
Dear Jimmy, LaNea, Chuck and family, my heart goes out to all of you and I am so sorry about your loss. Flo was an incredible lady who touched so many lives, including mine. She truly lived life to the fullest. Her love,energy,enthusiasm and kindness went out to everyone she met. I hope that you can find some sort of peace knowing how much she loved you, how proud she was of all of you and how much each and everyone of you ment to her. Peace and love to all of you. Always, Polly
Marianne Klewin
November 8, 2013
My deepest condolences to the family. Even though I have not spent a lot of time with Flo she will be truly missed in this world. What a wonderful person.
G Armstrong
November 8, 2013
Dear Chuck and Family,
We send our prayers to you all. We are so very saddened...Flo was a loving, generous and kind, kind woman.
As you know, our families go way back and our loses are never forgotten.
Love to you all with the deepest sympathy,
Nini and family
Vanessa Allore-DelBarone
November 7, 2013
Flo was a wonderful woman. Our condolences to her family. Chuck, our thoughts are with you.
Lauren & Colleen Casady
November 6, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. She truly was a fantastic person. Her love for life and passion for family will always be remembered. Flo will be missed by all.
Chris Dunbar
November 6, 2013
Hello Family back East,
You are in my prayers.
I will never forget the memories I have living with Flo and Chuck during the summers and working in the restaurant and on the fishing boat. I learned a lot from both Flo and Chuck. Flo was the one who sparked my passion for cooking and I saw her give great service to many people. I miss you Flo and all the great memories and food at Kitchen Little. You deserve the best life in heaven with God and his Angels.
Love you all.
Charisse Bicknese
November 6, 2013
Chuck,Jimmy, LaNae, Kelsey & Wes,
There are so many words, yet none are adequate. Our family shares your love and your loss. The world has lost an amazing person and has been left a better place because of Flo's love and life.
Cabo will never be the same.
Love to you all,
Gary, Charisse, Sarah & Aaron Bicknese
Sharon & Dave Pacheco
November 5, 2013
Chucky & the Klewin family
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Flo was a woman of integrity and great compassion and will be remembered by all who had the joy of knowing her.
Kelly Perkins
November 5, 2013
God Bless Flo and the entire family.
Kelly & Tanner Perkins
November 5, 2013
Chuck, we were very sad when we heard the news of Flos passing. She was a wonderful women with a big heart. We have all lost a friend, but the Lord has gained an angel. She will be forever loved and missed, however never forgotten! It was with great pleasure to have been a part of her life. He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty Psalm 91:1
Marie Tyler Wiley
November 5, 2013
To LaNae, Kelsey and Family,
We were so saddened to hear of your Mom's untimely passing. It is terrible to deal with a tragety of this magnatude.
Please accept our deepest condolences. Mom's are indeed a special treasure. And your Mom, who was known by everyone was indeed a wonderful woman.
I remember, back in the day,...weekly going over the Kitchen Little when I worked at the Seaport. I even had a coffee cup there! And your Mom was Ms. Put Together in and out of the kitchen like it was her business! :) She was an intregal part of the Mystic Community and will be missed.
There's an old Eskimo proverb that I think would really resonate with your Mom. It reads;
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
Remember...your Mom would always want you happy.
Peace to all of you.
Marie Tyler Wiley & Family
Beth and Dave Garbo
November 4, 2013
Heaven is joyful while we mourn... God bless Flo and her entire family. Peace to all of you, and comfort from those who grieve with you. She will be the missing soul in Mystic... Love you, LaNae...
Sue, Bob, Cassandra & Matt Donofrio
November 3, 2013
Chuck,Jimmy & Celia, Wesley, LaNae & David, Kelsey. We heard the news on October 23rd here in Cabo San Lucas. Flo's Cabo family all send condolences and prayers to you all. The news devastated us all and we know that Cabo will never be the same without Flo. We were fortunate to celebrate our annual Cabo trip with Pre-Cabo festivities in Mystic on Labor Day weekend. We held a Celebration of Life memorial here at PlayaGrande on the 24th which included the red roses she so well deserved, candles, music and ceremony. Our annual surf/turf dinner followed and was dedicated to Flo and her culinary excellence. We shared stories, laughter and tears....lots of tears. Her presence was felt by all at her party. Our angel has earned her wings and she will continue to guide us as we move forward in our own lives. We will be unable to attend the memorial in Mystic, as we will not return from Cabo in time. However, we plan to visit soon after our return. "No Bad Days" has taken on new meaning with the fondest of memories of our Angel. She will never be forgotten.
Rochele Noel-Gray
November 3, 2013
Joy and family,
I was so sad to hear that Flo passed away. She was such a good person and friendly to everyone. She will be missed by everyone. With my sincere sympathy.
Donna Mayo
November 2, 2013
Cuz chuck&family we can't find the words to express how deeply sorry for your loss. Flo will truly always be remembered in our hearts.she was a beautiful lady.our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Always Larry and donna
Jeri/Paul Berkel
November 2, 2013
To Jim, Wes and family,
We are saddened to learn of Flo's passing. Please accept our sincere condolences and our prayers for you all. Heaven has a new chef who will turn the heads of all the angels with her heavenly meals. God bless you all.
Zazzaro
November 2, 2013
Blessed Memory Eternal! Beautiful Flo
Our Sympathy Chuck, LaNae, Jimmy & Family
Love,
The Zazzaro Family
Grace, Richard, Athena, Bella
Brian Leslie
November 2, 2013
Jimmy, La Nae, Chuck and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mombo will always be with me and we feel so blessed to have spent time with you and her this past summer. We love you guys. Brian and Penny
Susan and Matt Dowling
November 1, 2013
LeNae, Jimmie, Chuck and families. We are so sorry for your loss. Flo was such a wonderful, kind, and caring person. She always had a smile for everyone. She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Maria Ventura (Santiago)
November 1, 2013
Chuck and Family, Sorry to hear of Flo's passing. Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back at memories help comfort your tomorrows.
Ralph Dupont
October 31, 2013
What a kind and loving person! She will be missed by her friends. I was honored to be among them.
Joann Romano
October 31, 2013
Tou my and LaNae, and Joy and to the res do the family we send our thoughts and prayers to you. We go way back enjoyed so much our spiritual. Conversations we had together. We would to be. At the memorial! but as someof you know we live in the Fiji islands, other wide of the world
But we will be thinking of you. We had a special love for Flo
John and Joann Romano
Fiji islands
P
P
Christine Pacheco
October 31, 2013
Dear Jimmy, chuckie and Family,
I was so sad to here of the sudden loss of Flo, She was a great lady and a amazing cook she will be so missed at kitchen little. May God bless & Comfort you all during this time.
Love Christine
October 31, 2013
LeNae and Family, We are very saddened for you, on the loss of such an amazing woman. We extend our deepest sympathies.
Sharon Eng-Marsie and Family
October 31, 2013
Dear James and all of Flo's family, My deepest sympathy is extended at this time. The town will miss and no doubt will not forget her sparkling personality. Ann Buonocore
Celeste Caracausa
October 31, 2013
Precious and Special...we were related by food!
Peter Shafman
October 31, 2013
To all of Flo's family---I was so saddened to hear of your loss. Flo was the always so happy and caring to everyone. I'll never forget the help and support she gave me at Bee Bee Dairy! She will be deeply missed. My Love to you all.
Sandra Sinkowski
October 31, 2013
Dear LaNae, Jimmy & Family,
Our hearts are breaking. Your Mom was unique & selfless. We will always remember her beautiful, joyful smile that lit up the room. She will be sorely missed.
She was our friend, and we loved her. We feel blessed to have known her.
With our heartfelt sympathy and love,
Sandy & Jim Sinkowski
Groton, CT
October 31, 2013
LaNae and family,
Words just can't express the sadness I feel for the sudden and unexpected loss of your mom. I will always remember her kindness and that positive aura around her. May God comfort you all during this difficult time.
Kellie Patt (Water St. Café)
John Brooks
October 31, 2013
Flo was a daily ray of sunshine at Kitchen Little. I was a "regular" in the early 1980s when I first moved to Mystic. She will be missed! God bless you all.
October 31, 2013
Jimmy so sorry to hear about your mom .Rick from noahs
katherine borkowski
October 30, 2013
From Vickie Wesolowski, and her daughter Katherine Borkowski: We have such nice memories of your childhood on Lantern Hill Road. Katherine remembers fondly the fun we had driving old cars around the potato field with your brother, Buzzy.
Kellie Papadopoli
October 30, 2013
To all of the Klewin Family,
We were so sorry to hear of Flo's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to each and everyone of you at this very sad time.
Mary Palmer, Kyle Palmer and Kellie Palmer Papadopoli
Donna Carroll
October 30, 2013
Jimmy, LaNae & families - We will always remember the warmth, love and welcoming smile of your Mother. She was truly a bundle of positive energy and will be missed greatly. We hold you close to our hearts....Donna, Alan, Shelly, Jen & Alan Carroll
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