William J. ‘Bill’ Kleine

March 8, 1925 - October 24, 2021

RANCHO BERNARDO — William Joseph Kleine was born in Chicago IL on March 8, 1925, raised in Crown Point IN, and in 1943 began his 32 year US Naval career. Retiring in San Diego in 1980 as ENCM, Master Chief Kleine proudly served in WWII, Korea, and three tours in Vietnam. He was the youngest of 6 children; his siblings having predeceased him.

In 1946, Bill married the love of his life, Janet Arlean (Shields) who died in 2011. Together they raised 7 children who reside throughout the US. They include Krissann and Michael (deceased) Zoby of Virginia Beach VA, Karol and Ward Holmes of Norfolk VA,

Karynne Kleine and Michael Gleason of Hiawassee GA, Kurtis and Cheryl (Hangebrauck) Kleine of Hiawassee GA, Kellee Kleine, Kimberly and Michael McCarthy, and Kathy and Richard Roxas all residing in San Diego CA. The Kleine’s were also blessed with 26 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and soon-to-be 1 great-great grandchild. Bill and Janet created the Kleine Family Fun Club (KFFC) to model the importance of supportive family bonds, and as a way to keep their large family close across the miles.

In addition to his family and his career, Bill became a tremendously avid fan of the Chargers football team, maintaining his status as a season’s ticket holder for over 30 years. William had a prodigious memory and rarely missed an episode of the game show, Jeopardy. A man of deep faith, Bill was an unfailing member of San Rafael Catholic Parish in Rancho Bernardo CA. He supported many philanthropies to help the less fortunate.

Master Chief Kleine’s remains will be inurned at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, 1700 Cabrillo Memorial Dr. SD. A Military Honors Service will be held on Monday, December 13 at 11:30 a.m.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Father Joe’s Village at https://my.neighbor.org/ about-us/