Jack Edward Kleinke, May 2, 1949 – May 30, 2019

Jack Edward Kleinke, age 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones and professionals that helped him maintain his dignity on May 30, at Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George, Utah.

He was born on May 2, 1949, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to Clarence and Lenora (Donley) Kleinke. He graduated from Minford High School in 1967 where he enjoyed playing football. He went on to serve honorably for the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Upon leaving the U.S. Army, Kleinke spent time as a longhaul truck driver, National Park Service motor vehicle operator, and even opened one of Moab’s first art galleries with his best friend Tim Morse. He loved NASCAR and fulfilled a lifelong wish to see some of the races with his son Joshua in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kleinke adored his grandsons and loved to hear their laughter and all the chaos they create for their parents.

Kleinke was preceded in death by his beloved parents. He is survived by his son Joshua and wife Kate Kleinke and grandsons Malcolm and Matthew Jack of Washington, Utah; his sister Deborah (Kleinke) and William “Scooter” Elliott of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and nephews Matthew and Wesley Elliott; Joplin Rutherford of Moab; and lifelong friend Tim Morse, of Moab and Helper.

As per his wishes to spend eternity among the scenic valley in which he cherished so much, his ashes will be spread in Canyonlands National Park at a later date. We all know how much Kleinke loved college football, so to all those that wish to honor him, help cheer on the Ohio State Buckeyes this football season. Go Bucks! The family would also like to thank all those that have helped love and support Kleinke in his last days.