James Albert Klepfer's Obituary
James “Jimmy” Albert Klepfer passed away peacefully at the home he built surrounded by his family on January 14, 2025. His long courageous battle with cancer is over. James was born February 21, 1952 to Nola Mora Klepfer and Rex Klepfer. James was a beloved figure among his family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Louise Klepfer; his daughters, Forest Newman (Jeff), Lindsay Johnson (Kyle), and Carrie Baird (Wes); and his siblings, Tina, Rex, Terry, and Johnny. His legacy also lives on through his grandchildren, Kyle, Dalton, Coy, and Adam, who will miss their grandfather's presence and stories.
As a young boy James grew up fishing on the docks of Cortez with his grandfather, Gator Mora and uncles. Cortez is where his love of salt water began and continued throughout his life. James well known as “Po Po” passed down his countless knowledge and experiences to his girls and grandchildren. Together they enjoyed crabbing, shrimping, diving and preparing all things fishing. They all have a lifetime of memories filled with the sea. His Mother always said “If it wasn’t for mullet I guess we would have starved to death”. Many people in the community have experienced his delicious smoked mullet and dip.
James attended Palmetto High School then served in the Vietnam war. He came home as so many of his friends did not. Upon his return he met the love of his life Louise, also a native, that shared the same passion and love of being on the water. They built a home in Palmetto where they made a beautiful family. His many years of hard work, whether it be commercial fishing or construction, made it possible for him to provide for his family. James always worked hard but also found time to make sure his girls got to every lesson, recital, practice or just simply chauffeuring them and their friends around. His girls describe him as the best father anyone could ask for. His girls were his life and when grandchildren came, they also became his life. Even though he was a father to 3 girls he was a father to many others, “Pa Pa” James. His love and support for his girls naturally embraced their friends.
A service to honor James's life will be held at 1:30 PM on Thursday, January 30, at Skyway Memorial Gardens, located at 5200 US Hwy 19 N, Palmetto, FL 34221.
Flowers can be sent to Skyway Memorial Gardens or memorial contributions can be made to:
Educational Harbor Christian School
415 49th St East
Palmetto, FL. 34221 www.educationalharbor.com
James was an enthusiastic supporter of his Grandson’s school, and his dedication to its mission was unwavering.
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