Darin Klein

All who knew Darin Klein would agree that he was one of the most kind and generous people around. He was hardworking and driven to succeed with just the right amount of free spirit mixed in. Darin loved being with his family, and he especially loved gathering around a campfire with his loved ones. With his quick wit always at the ready, he was so funny and had a laugh that was contagious to all who were near. Although he accomplished so much of which to be proud, Darin was a humble man whose greatest joy was found in helping others. Taken from his loved ones too soon, he will never be forgotten.

The 1960s were an exciting time in American history. Early on we elected the young John F. Kennedy as our 35th President of the United States and by the end of the decade we had put the first man on the moon. The first issue of Rolling Stone was published, Star Trek made its debut on the small screen, and Paul Newman became a household name. Amidst this eventful time was the year 1969 when Gerald and Joanne “Pat” (Clawson) Klein were pleased to announce the birth of the baby boy they named Darin Paul on June 17th in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was the older of two children in his family as he was raised alongside his sister, Angie, who was three years younger.

Right from the start Darin was a delight to his family. He was a happy baby who was easy to care for, and he could amuse himself just playing on his own. Darin enjoyed playing wiffle ball with the neighborhood kids, and reenacting WWF matches that were legendary. Darin was a good athlete, playing baseball, football and basketball. He liked playing video games and Dungeons and Dragons. Darin always did well in his studies. He was very social and outgoing, and popular among his peers. Darin also played the electric guitar and had a real passion for it. He was in several bands in high school and college with Eddie Van Halen being his main source for inspiration.

After graduating from high school Darin attended Indiana University, and later transferred to the University of Missouri-Kansas City, graduating as a political science major. With his education behind him, Darin’s first job was in sales working as a salesman for the Enesco Corporation. After six years, Darin took a position in sales with Department 56. His last seven years were spent working in retail real estate management for CBL Properties.

Throughout his life Darin was always one to keep busy. He enjoyed regular camping trips with his family to Ludington, Michigan and in the Upper Peninsula. “Klein Kamp” was their annual tradition every summer, and Darin looked forward to it all year. One year, he was so excited he almost went up a week early! It certainly said something that he drove all the way from Pennsylvania to sit around the campfire with his family. Darin’s favorite meal was biscuits and gravy or Chicago style pizza along with Texas sheet cake for dessert. As his family and friends can attest, he always had Mountain Dew with everything. Always a sports fan, Darin liked following IU basketball. Darin liked movies, especially Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and The Highlander were some of his favorites. The past three years he lived a very health conscious lifestyle, losing 60 pounds and quitting smoking.

A kindhearted and tenderhearted man, Darin was loved by everyone who knew him. He was a devoted family man who was protective of his loved ones. Darin was generous beyond compare as he was always willing to help others. His dad knew he possessed solid character when Darin put his life on the line to pull a mother and two children to safety from a car accident that unfolded right in front of them without any regard to his own safety. It could have gone so very badly since the smell of gas was everywhere.

When reflecting on the life of Darin Klein, it is easy to see that he lived his life with others in mind first and foremost. He had a tender heart and a spirit of compassion that extended to all who were near. Although life will never be the same without Darin here, he leaves behind a priceless collection that his loved ones will forever cherish.

Darin P. Klein aged 46, of West Lawn, PA, passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2016. He was preceded in death by his uncle, Mike Clawson. Darin is survived by his parents, Gerald and Pat Klein; sister, Angela Marie (Kevin) Braverman; nieces, Taegan and Camryn Braverman; uncles, Leo (Marcia) Klein, Richard (Nancy) Klein and Erwin (Monica) Klein; aunts, Nancy (John) Denhof, Paula (Bill) Haecker, Kathy (Bruce) Brandon and Annette Clawson; and many cousins and friends. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM on March 4, 2016 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 406 E. Savidge St. Spring Lake, MI. The family will receive visitors from 10 AM until Mass. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Lori’s Voice or St. Mary’s Catholic School Building Fund. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to read Darin’s lifestory, archive a memory, photo, or sign the guestbook online.