Gary Kleffner, 65, of Hampton, IL, passed away on August 13, 2026, peacefully in his sleep at home.

Per Gary’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 20th, at Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline, IL, with visitation for family and friends one hour prior to services. Memorials may be made to the family, for a donation to be made in his name.

Gary was born on August 28, 1960, at the Moline Public Hospital in Moline, IL, the son of Lavon (Phillips) and Junior Karl Kleffner. He married Carol Kleffner in Hampton, IL, on May 1, 2009. Gary worked for Jewel-Osco for 37 years before his retirement in 2019.

Gary took great pride in being a 6 time Belly Flop Champion on the various cruises he frequented with his wife. He was an avid WWE fan and attended various car shows with his brother Terry. He loved spending time at his retirement home in Florida and being vice president of the Men’s Club. In Florida, he enjoyed driving around in his golf cart with Groot, which was decorated during the Christmas holidays alongside his friends in the community. Gary loved spending time with his friends and all of his beloved dogs he had owned.

Survivors include his wife, Carol Kleffner; mother, Lavon Kleffner; step-daughters, Cheryl (Camilo) Torres and Becky Armstrong; 5 grandchildren, Maria Torres, Erika Torres, Delanie (Krystin) Pearson, Nico Torres, and Gaby Torres; 2 great-grandchildren, Ensley and Cannon Pearson; sister, Sharon (Bob) Kenney; brother, Terry Kleffner; nieces and nephews; great nieces and great nephews, one being his godson, Liam; and his buddy, Groot.

He was preceded in death by his father, Junior Karl Kleffner; sister, Kerry List; various aunts and uncles; and his beloved dogs, Krenshaw, Whimsby, Riley, and Griffon.

Online condolences can be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com.