Gary L. Kleppen

Gary L. Kleppen,
68, of Indianapolis, passed away on August 20, 2020. He was born on November 29, 1951, to the late Claire Kleppen and Edith Harrison. Gary grew up in Indianapolis and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue. He was drafted into the United States Army where he saw the end of the Korean War and the start of the Vietnam War. He served for two years, spending time in Korea before being honorably discharged, despite his superiors wanting to keep him as an officer. He then served in the Army Reserves until 1978.

Gary was a very intelligent man who had many interests. He was a tool and die maker and was a member of the Steelworkers Union for over 40 years. He was a hard worker but also made time for fun! His children remember him taking them to go roller skating or watch movies at the drive-in. He loved to cook, and his family will miss him cooking all the holiday meals and his hearty specialties: dumplings, Irish stew, and potato soup. He was also a long-time member of the 33rd Virginia, a Civil War reenactment group. They did reenactments all over Indiana, and he thoroughly enjoyed his time with them. Family members introduced Gary to his wife, Sandy, who were so much in love that they eloped on April 30, 2003. They later had a vow renewal ceremony where their whole family celebrated the marriage. Gary was a true gentleman to his wife and loved spending time with her and all of his family. He loved being with them and spoiling his grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by those who knew and love him.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents and brother William Kleppen. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra “Sandy” Kleppen; children: Dawn (Alvin) Simmons, Gary (Angela) Kleppen, Sheryl (Bob) Bear, George Albert Burns, and Richard Lee Burns; Siblings, Cecil and Anna; grandchildren: Alexander Simmons, Matthew Simmons, Kayla Bear, Ciera Kleppen, Izzy Bear, DeLisa Shephard, Conner Lee Burns, and Grayson Connor; and great-grandchildren: Raelynn Simmons, Jaxon Shephard, Lilly Mae Shephard, Lexi Shephard, and Teddy Burns.

Funeral Services for Gary will be private and handled by Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East. Gary will be laid to rest at Washington Park East Cemetery.