Passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025 at the age of 93. Dear husband to Barbara (2018) for 64 years. Loving father to the late Michael Jr. (2011) and Frances (1958). Adored grandfather “Ota” to Paul, Michelle, Anna, and Frankie. Cherished Great-grandfather to Kassandra, Owen, Connor, Cameron, Carter, Maylynn, Michael and Henri. Great-Great-grandfather to Lucas. Dear mentor to Bob, who he loved like a son. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Magdalena Klingler, and his brother Joseph Klingler (2003).
He was proud to be a member of St. Michael’s Roman Catholic German Church and the Teutonia Club of Windsor. After moving from Romania in 1949, he started his new life in Canada working on a farm in Colchester. He later settled in Windsor where he met his future wife at St. Michael’s Church. They married in 1954 and began building their life together based on hard work, family values, and community ties.
He got into the gas station business first with British America then running operations under the Gulf brand. As both an operator and a talented mechanic, he took great pride in what he did. He had a passion for guiding young men who apprenticed with him during those years and often shared fond memories about that time. His love for cars went beyond business; he had a lifelong enthusiasm for automobiles-especially his beloved 1971 Plymouth Barracuda. In the early ’70s he moved into the automotive parts industry by starting what is now Walker Road Automotive-a family-run business that continues today.
He also deeply enjoyed nature and being outdoors. He spent summers at his cottage on Long Lake in Charlton, Ontario-a place he built himself with care. It became his retreat where he spent tranquil days surrounded by the beauty of nature. He particularly loved spending time tinkering around in his barn there; fixing things or giving them new purpose always brought him joy. Known as a hardworking man with respect for resourcefulness, he found uses for items others would toss away. Above all else, people will remember him for his kindness, generosity, and genuine concern for everyone around him.
Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – Central Chapel (1700 Tecumseh Rd E.) 519-253-7234 on Friday September 26th from 4-9pm with parish prayers at 5pm. A private family interment will take place. Memorial Donations in honor of Michael can be made to Hospice of Windsor and Essex County or the Alzheimer Society. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www. windsorchapel. com http://www. windsorchapel. com.
Source link
Source link
