Kenneth Dean Kleine

Kenneth Dean "Ken" Kleine, aged 92, passed away on May 20, 2026, in Valley, Nebraska.
Born on October 8, 1933, in Danbury, Iowa, Ken lived a long and eventful life filled with hard work, humor, and resilience.

Ken grew up on a farm in Danbury during challenging times, an experience that shaped his character and left him with countless memories.

He served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1959, stationed in Germany. He had to fly there and back, and never flew again. But it was better than taking a ship, as he was terrified of being on the water. Following his military service, Ken embarked on a diverse career that showcased his skills and adaptability. He worked as a truck driver and electronics technician in Sioux City, Iowa and later became a city and tour bus driver in Colorado Springs, where he and Jackie moved in 1980. Known for his mechanical aptitude and resourcefulness, Ken could fix just about anything.

His clever, dry sense of humor and happy demeanor endeared him to those who knew him. He Loved Chocolate in any form, especially Oreo cookies, and was always happy to share with everyone. A loyal husband and family man, he made the best of life's challenges with determination and grace. Despite facing macular degeneration later in life, which took much of his vision and made daily tasks difficult, Ken maintained his independence for as long as possible-remarkably driving until nearly the age of 91.
Ken enjoyed country music and found joy in driving throughout his life.

He was surprised at the length of his years and faced the end of his journey with readiness and peace. Valley Lakes Assisted Living provided the availability of help when he needed it, but asking for help didn't come naturally or easily for him. Suncrest Hospice stepped in the last 2 weeks and convinced him to try the things to make his daily life more comfortable and easier...no easy chore. He was strong willed, never wrong, but never mean.

Ken was predeceased by his parents, Albin Kleine and Mildred (Ray) Wynia; his siblings Bob (Lib), Rich (Delores), Roger Kleine, and Rose (Ron) Wonder; as well as three wives: Laura Wilson Kleine; Jackie Spooner Renfro Kleine; and Kathie Spink Kleine, and a stepdaughter. His cremains now rest with Kathie's in Colorado with her family.

He is survived by stepchildren, step grandchildren, step great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews from the Kleine family; and a sister-in-law. Even though a stepdad, he was the best dad and happily filled that role. A very loving, caring and fun dad and grandpa/papa. Having family was especially important to him. And he lit up when with the babies who came along.

Ken's legacy will also be honored with a headstone placed in Danbury, Iowa among some of his family members-a lasting tribute to a life well-lived. May Kenneth Dean Kleine's memory bring a smile to all who knew him.