Joseph M. Klein 1940-2025
POLAND — Joseph Michael Klein passed away peacefully, Monday, May 5, 2025, just six days shy of his 85th birthday.
He is survived by his wife and love of his life of 45 years, Lois, as well as four stepchildren, Deborah Vesy, Rick Vesy (LuAnn), Valerie McElroy (Max) and Chris Vesy (Al Roller), and four grandchildren.
Joe’s greatest joy was to have a family. He and Lois married June 2, 1979, and he embraced her four children, giving them each cherished nicknames — Deborah (my pet), Rick (bonding son), Valerie (maverick daughter) and Chris (the chosen one).
Joe is the son of an immigrant family from Transylvania that came to the United States through Ellis Island. They settled on the east side of Youngstown, where Joe graduated from East High School.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael Klein and Helen Sanders Klein; and his five siblings, Michael, John, Rudy, Matilda and Mary Kathryn. From his first marriage, he was preceded in death by a son, Joey; and survived by a son, Todd, and three grandchildren.
Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1959 and rose to the rank of E4. He was stationed in France and Germany from 1959 to 1962.
Upon returning home, Joe started his 40-year career as a railroad conductor. He hired in with the Baltimore & Ohio at the Hazleton yard in Youngstown. He ended his career with the Chessie System at CSX in New Castle-Mahoningtown yard. He retired in 2002 at the age of 62.
Joe was a longtime member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Youngstown. He served as an usher and counter. He and his wife Lois started the church’s annual Trash and Treasure Sale and led that effort for 30 years.
Joe fondly recalled his family travels to Europe. He and Lois always brought home a nativity as a remembrance. They amassed quite a collection and held a Nativity Open House in their home for many years. Joe was the official tour guide.
A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Martin Luther Lutheran Church, 420 Clearmount Drive, Youngstown, with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m.
A luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Martin Luther Lutheran Church or Shepherd of the Valley Poland, 301 W. Western Reserve Road, Poland, OH 44514.
Arrangements were handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel.
(special notice)