Frank & Bright Funeral Home
Bill Klein
Aug 31st, 1957 - Jun 22nd, 2022William “Bill” E. Klein Jr., age 64, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday morning, June 22, 2022, at his home.
He was born August 31, 1957, in Flora, the son of William E. and Emma Elizabeth (Meglich) Klein. He was united in marriage to Deborah E. Shipley on August 22, 1975, at First Christian Church of Flora, and together they have shared 46 wedding anniversaries.
An authentic conversationalist who enjoyed talking to people everywhere and of all ages, Bill often lightened the mood with his fun-loving nature and unique sense of humor. He wrapped his heart around his grandkids and welcomed their friends, was a loving “dog dad,” and enjoyed outdoor activities like camping, swimming, boating, and lighting fireworks. His contentment in riding side-by-sides and ATVs in recent years merely hinted at the adventures he experienced back in the days when he was known for racing motorcycles. Bill was a farmer, working alongside his father on their multi-generational owned land. A skilled welder, he had been invited to instruct Welding Technology courses at Olney Central College. He served as a past Illinois Farm Bureau Director and past member of the Flora Elks, Flora Eagles, and VFW Auxiliary.
He is survived by his wife: Deb Klein of Flora; his mother: Emma Klein of Flora; 5 grandchildren: Rase Collins of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Ryder (Taylor) Collins, Rowdy Collins, Ava Beth Billingsley, and Rylan Billingsley, all of Flora; a great-granddaughter: Evelynn Elaine Collins; a brother and 2 sisters: Troy (Michelle) Klein of Medway, Ohio, Bonnita (David) Brown of Keller, Texas, and Lorraine Waddell of La Crescenta, California; a sister-in-law: Kim (Bryan) Bullard of Rinard; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father: William E. Klein; and his beloved daughter: Jessika Elaine Klein-Billingsley.
A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Private interment will take place in St. Stephen Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 until 8 p.m. Tuesday evening, June 28, at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to Oil Belt Christian Service Camp or to St. Stephen Cemetery and will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a memory or condolence, visit: www.frankandbright.com