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PAUL VINCENT KLEE, SR
Paul Vincent Klee, Sr., 97, of Ft. Wright, KY and a native of Falmouth, passed away Feb. 20 at the Celebration Villa in Ft. Wright. Born on Jan. 16, 1927, in Falmouth, KY, he was a son of the late Sallie Brownfield Klee and William Carton Klee, Sr. A 1944 Falmouth High School graduate, Paul grew up in the rolling hills of the Bluegrass State, with a love for his country and all things native to Kentucky, the UK Wildcats, and the Cincinnati Bengals.
On Jan. 15, 1949, he married “Margie” Reynolds Klee, and anchored in faith, they were blessed with 11 children and a family tree standing tall with 105 members, spanning four generations. Together, Paul and Margie founded and operated Klee Wholesale, distributing food, candy and cigarettes to retail stores, and they were active members of the St. Francis Xavier Church and supporters of the former St. Francis Xavier School.
Wherever family and friends were gathered enjoying each other’s company and focusing on the lighter side of life, Paul Klee, Sr. wanted to be there.
As a Southern gentleman, Paul loved a simple life, and he relished the opportunity to drive the country roads of Pendleton, Bracken, and Mason Counties, listening to some Bluegrass music and delivering food, candy and cigarettes to the gas stations and small groceries dotting the landscape, but more importantly, sitting a spell with his customers who became the dearest of friends, sipping a cold Coca-Cola and sharing news, stories, and “well-told” jokes. His warm, easy smile and “fun-loving” spirit were a gift to any gathering. He loved playing euchre whenever the opportunity presented itself and not even macular degeneration kept him from hosting a weekly Tuesday night euchre party for 19 people, where all who gathered were guaranteed a memorable evening. As much fun as the card party itself, Paul enjoyed the preparation and shopping, as he scoured local stores for player’s favorite treats and local deals.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife of 75 years, Margie Reynolds Klee; his 10 children: Nancy Wright (Dan), Paula Brickweg (Jim), Paul Vincent Klee, Jr. (Cathie), Marilyn Bradley (Chris), Kent Klee (Lisa), Alan Klee, Marianne Roseberry (Bill), Marjorie Maginn (Tim), Maureen Sweeney (Greg), and Bill Klee (Tara); 25 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son Martin Joseph Klee on Apr. 14, 1960, and his brothers William Carton “W.C.” Klee, Jr. and John Raymond Klee who died in active service.
Mass of Christian Burial was held on Feb. 24 at St. Francis Xavier Church, with Fr. Andrew Gronotte, LC and Fr. Christopher Gronotte, LC officiating. The visitation preceded the mass at his church. Serving as pallbearers were his grandsons, and the honorary pallbearers were his granddaughters.
Interment took place at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Falmouth. Woodhead Funeral Home, Falmouth, is caring for the family.
Memorials are suggested to St. Francis Xavier Church or St. Francis Xavier Cemetery.
To honor Paul’s legacy, remember to “Have A Good Day Every Day!”
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodheadfuneralhome.com