Michael A. Kleine

Michael A. Kleine, age 68, of Carlyle, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, at his home, surrounded by those who loved him. Born on March 11, 1957, in Centralia, he was the beloved son of Ralph "Hank" and Maxine (Barger) Kleine. Michael married Dena Harris on November 14, 2014, and she survives in Carlyle.

He is also survived by his children, Melissa and R.J. Blankenship, Tabetha and Parker (Weathersby) Harrison, Benjamin Harrison of Highland, and Stephanie and Robbie Dunham of Trenton. He cherished his grandchildren, Brianna, Rose, Alivia, Jordon, Hailey, Roman, Jameson, Theo, Edyn Michelle, and Rhodes; his sisters-in-law, Karen (Johnson) Kleine and Karen (Sellers) Kleine; his best friend and nephew, Aaron Kleine; and his lifelong friend/brother and business partner of 37 years, Keith Butts.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Robert "Bob" Kleine and James "Jim" Kleine.

In his youth, Michael enjoyed horse-pulling activities with his grandfather. Over the years, he developed a passion for dirt track racing and demolition derbies, earning the nickname "Boomer" for his competitive spirit. His love for racing created cherished memories with his nephew Aaron, as they spent numerous hours together on the track or in the garage preparing for upcoming races.

As Michael got older, his focus shifted to his family. He was a dedicated family man who poured his heart into his work at KM&H Enterprises. He was always sure to be a very active and hands-on grandfather at his children's and grandchildren's sporting events. He will be remembered as a kind, generous, and loving man. If you ever met Mike, you knew you met Mike, and you would never forget him.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM. A memorial service will begin at 5:00 PM at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle, followed by a dinner at the Carlyle VFW.

Memorials made in memory of Mike are suggested to his family with checks payable to his wife, Dena Kleine, and will be received at Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231.