Ronald Joseph Klinkhammer

Racine- Ronald Joseph Klinkhammer, 59, passed away unexpectedly at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Tuesday, January 29, 2008 with his loving family at his side. A lifetime resident, Ron was born in Racine on August 1, 1948 to Norbert H. and Flora (nee: LaRose) Klinkhammer. On April 25, 1970 in St. Edward Catholic Church, he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Catherine “Cathy” Sue Smetana. Ron attended Holy Name Grade School and Park High School. He faithfully served our Country with the United States Marine Corps. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a truck driver and machinist. Ron had a strong faith in the Lord. He was always simple and modest, could sometimes be perceived as a little rough on the outside but was soft and kind through and through. Ron was exceptionally talented in plumbing, woodworking and working on cars. He could fix just about anything. Ron shared these talents with anyone who was in need and will be affectionately remembered as having “magic hands”. Among his interests and hobbies, he enjoyed sailing, boating, metal detecting, crafting stained glass art and appreciating life. Above all, Ron loved his family and was very proud of his wife, children and, especially, his cherished grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by all. Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 38 years, Cathy of Racine; their children, Eric (Tammy) Klinkhammer of Kenosha; Kevin (Tracy) Klinkhammer, Cathy Ann (Kirk) Hauptmann and Heather (Tony) Aust; beloved parents, Norbert and Flora Klinkhammer, all of Racine; grandchildren, Haley, Brandon, Ryan and Nicholas Klinkhammer; Collin Gonzales; Evan and Lauryn Klinkhammer; Katie and Kayla Hauptmann; and Megan Aust; sisters, Barbara (David) Rudin and Beverly (Joe) Paricka; sisters-in-law, Charla Klinkhammer and Denise (Dale) Stillman; brothers-in-law, Charles (Patty), Larry (Connie), David (Anna Marie), Steve (Evelyn), and Rick (Kellie) Smetana; and by many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name. Ron was preceded in death by his brother, Norbert B. “Norby” Klinkhammer; and by Cathy’s parents, Charles and Catherine Smetana. Funeral services celebrating Ron’s life will be held in the funeral home, 4600 County Line Rd., on Saturday, February 2, 2008 at 12:00 noon with Rev. Brian Gorman officiating. Private interment will take place in S. Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery – Union Grove. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Saturday from 10 am – 12 noon. In honoring Ron’s request, relatives and friends are encouraged to dress casually (blue jeans) at his funeral. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ron’s family. A heartfelt note of thanks to the first responders of the Racine Fire Department especially Rescue 7b; and to all the physicians and staff of All Saints Emergency Room and ICU for the ompassionate care and support in our time of need. Your kindness will always be remembered!