Dale Richard Klingler

Dale Richard Klingler, 92, of Columbus, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2023. Dale was born December 25, 1930, the youngest child of Elza David Klingler and Beulah Ellen (Garey) Klingler. As a child, Dale enjoyed working next to his father on their farm in Junction City and was always a farmer at heart. When the farming chores were being covered by his brothers, he enjoyed spending time with his mom and his sister who taught him to cook, sew, and crochet! Dale had a great sense of humor and liked to tell funny stories and play tricks on people (fake vomit, anyone?). He was a devoted son, uncle, father, and husband. He was extremely hard working. He rarely sat down to relax, but when he did, he usually fell asleep. He loved to tinker and fix things and was called upon by many friends and family members to do just that. He always had a project going and liked to think of innovative ways to solve problems. Dale loved children, and children loved him. One of his proudest moments was becoming a grandfather, and all his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews have special memories of the time they spent together. He was proud of his service to the United States Navy. He served on the USS Columbus (CA-74) for four years, during which he received several awards and promotions (or as he called them, “attaboys”). While on leave in Boston, Dale met the love of his life, Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Bennett, who he subsequently (and wisely) married on April 14, 1956, in Winthrop, Massachusetts. Toward the end of his enlistment, a fellow sailor suggested looking at IBM for employment, which led to a 30-year career with the company in Zanesville and Columbus, Ohio. The family then settled in Zanesville, Ohio, and in 1962, moved to Columbus, where they remained for over 60 years. Dale served over fifty years as a member of the Groveport Lions Club. He and Betty were also long-time members of Groveport Zion Lutheran Church. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings (Ruth (Lones), Walter, and Bill), his beloved wife Betty, his eldest daughter Kathryne Marie (Klingler) Brewer, and nephews Robert and Jerry Lones. He is survived by his daughters BethAnn (Klingler) Morgan and Denise (Klingler) DeNunzio; his son, James Klingler; his grandchildren Matthew Brewer, Christopher Brewer, David Brewer, Brian DeNunzio, Grace DeNunzio, Maria Morgan, Cole Morgan and Trey Morgan; his great grandchildren Lincoln, Calloway, Indiana, Eli, Katie and Tatum; as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. Memorial services will be held on Monday October 23, 2023, at Groveport Zion Lutheran Church at 1:30 PM, with a light lunch following. Pastor Matthew Cox will be presiding. A graveside service will follow in Junction City on Tuesday October 24, 2023, at United Brethren Church 2965 Tollgate Road in Junction City at 12:30 PM with Pastor Matt Cox officiating. Lunch will be provided following the service. In lieu of flowers, cards or gifts, the family simply asks that you donate to the charity of your choice in Dale’s honor.