Kenneth “Butch” J. Kleindel, age 68, passed away Monday, May 3, 2021. He enjoyed his last days surrounded by his kids and grandkids in Montana.
Ken was born at Whidbey Island Naval Base WA on April 9, 1953, to Kenneth and Jeannine (Bajema) Kleindel. He grew up and attended school in Lynden from the age of 9.
Kenny enjoyed life to the fullest whether he was fishing, trapping, hunting or with his friends and family. He was known for his kindness, sense of humor and the ability to fix anything.
Ken worked for Scholten’s Equipment for almost 33 years and took great pride in his work. Most of the farmers in Whatcom County knew Ken could fix, and fairly quickly too, whatever they broke in the middle of a busy harvest season, climbing silos if needed. He enjoyed working with his hands. He kept an organized toolbox and would know quickly if something was missing.
Dad took several road trips over the years with his mom and brother Dave to Idaho and Montana, seeing the kids and grandkids and even catching a few of their soccer games.
Retiring briefly to Montana, he enjoyed his quiet morning coffee on the deck watching the neighboring cows/calves along with the wildlife. He checked out the fishing at the river with the grandchildren. Although his time was cut short, many laughs and tears were shared along the way.
Kenny will be greatly missed by his son Benjamin Kleindel and daughter Rachel (Clint) Weidkamp; grandchildren Rebecca, Christina and Levi Weidkamp; sister Marlae (John) Holtzheimer; brothers Dave (Yvonne) Kleindel, Mark (DiAnna) Kleindel, and Don (Ann) Kleindel; numerous nieces and nephews and many good friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Donald and Jeannine (Bajema) Kleindel.
A private graveside service was held at Monumenta Cemetery of Lynden on Saturday, May 8. An open house followed at Scholten’s Equipment nearby.