Michael Klingler passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025 at the age of 93. He was a devoted 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. A dear mentor to Bob, who he loved like a son. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Magdalena Klingler, and his brother Joseph Klingler (2003).
He proudly belonged to St. Michael’s Roman Catholic German Church and the Teutonia Club of Windsor. After moving from Romania in 1949, he started a new life in Canada working on a farm in Colchester. Later on, he relocated to Windsor where he met his future wife at St. Michael’s Church. They got married in 1954 and began building their life together based on hard work, family values, and community involvement.
He entered the gas station business first with British America before operating under the Gulf brand. As both an operator and skilled mechanic, he took immense pride in his work. He had a passion for mentoring young men who apprenticed with him during those years and often shared fond memories about those times together. His love for cars went beyond business-he cherished his 1971 Plymouth Barracuda throughout his life. In the early 1970s, he explored the automotive parts industry by founding what is now Walker Road Automotive-a family-run business that continues today.
He also had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed spending summers at his cottage on Long Lake in Charlton, Ontario-a place he built himself. It served as his sanctuary where peaceful days were spent surrounded by lake beauty and forest tranquility. He particularly enjoyed tinkering around in his barn there; finding satisfaction in hands-on work while fixing or repurposing items others might discard was part of who he was known as-a tireless worker with respect for resourcefulness. More than anything else though, people will remember him for his kindness, generosity, and genuine care towards 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 follow afterwards.
Memorial donations in honor of Michael can be made to Hospice of Windsor & Essex County or Alzheimer Society.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www. windsorchapel. com http://www. windsorchapel. com.
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A private family interment will follow afterwards.
Memorial donations in honor of Michael can be made to Hospice of Windsor & Essex County or Alzheimer Society.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www. windsorchapel. com http://www. windsorchapel. com.
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