George E. Kletz, Jr.

Bloomington – George E. Kletz, Jr., 77, of Bloomington, passed away at 7:45 p.m. on August 23, 2022 at the McLean County Nursing Home. 

A private family service will be held with a public celebration of life at a later date. Memorial contributions may be left to Shriners Children’s Hospital or First United Methodist Church in Normal. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

George was born on October 21, 1944 in Dalhart, Texas, a son to George E. and Betty (McMahan) Kletz, Sr. He married Carol Partridge on July 10, 1968 in Normal. 

Surviving are his wife, Carol Kletz of Bloomington; sons, Chad Kletz of Normal and Derek Kletz of Tennessee; sister, Brenda Wheeler of Normal; and granddaughter, Skye Kletz of Tennessee. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, and a brother. 

George grew up on the west side of Bloomington spending his time playing and boxing at the Western Avenue Comm. Center.  He graduated from NCHS in 1962, married Carol in 1968, and had his first son, Chad, in 1967.  George got a taste of the sign business during his first job with Coca Cola making signs for businesses.  From there, he worked for "Red" Olson at All-Bright signs.

George built the house he lived in for over 50 years in 1971.  The year 1972 brought his second son, Derek, and a partnership in Super Sign Service with William Smith.  George became a grandfather in 2005, when the Lord blessed our family with Skye.

George was a highly talented fast pitch softball pitcher, spent many years attempting to master golf, and was involved with the Shriners and Jesters.  The time he spent with friends and family were precious to him.  He enjoyed traveling which included snowmobiling in Wisconsin, canoeing in Missouri, and scuba diving near many beautiful islands.  

He kept us safe for many years while volunteering with the McLean County Civil defense watching for tornadoes and snowmobiling doctors & nurses to hospitals.  Many of us will remember him for his generosity with his time and money.  He had a unique ability to visualize and create things with his hands leading to the quote, "Let George do it".  

We will all miss him!