Paul “Pete” Kleinhenz was born on September 18th, 1953, in Tiffin Ohio to Paul G. Kleinhenz, Sr. and Anna Steiner. He married Fran Turner, January 11, 1989, and she survives in Tiffin.

Pete is also survived by his children, Kelly Kleinhenz of Dayton; Jaci (Kenny) McBride and their children, Tayli and Mason of Riverview, MI; Dannielle (Jon David) Kleinhenz of Auburn, IN and her children, Evan Glick and his son, Malakai Vance, and Aaliyah Kleinhenz; Candace (Jerry) Jones of Dearborn, MI; brother, Steve (Marilyn “Toots”) Kleinhenz of Tiffin; sister, Sue Allen (Vince Geluso) of Simi Valley, CA; and brother in law, David Sisson of Avon Lake, OH. Along with many neices, nephews, and cousins in surrounding areas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim Kleinhenz; and sisters, Jeannette Sisson and Sandy McCool.

Pete was a 1971 Tiffin Calvert graduate and worked at American Standard for 35 years, retiring in 2008.

As the youngest of six brothers and sisters, he learned at an early age the value of working hard and helping others. He frequently helped at his Dad's restaurant/bar, Paul's Cafe (which is still operating today as the Renaissance) and watched how his dad interacted with people. This would help shape the person he became in life. When Pete wasn't helping his family, he enjoyed playing sports, especially baseball and basketball. His love of sports continued throughout his entire life. It wasn't out of character for him to drive all over the country just to watch a sporting event, run a race, or even go all the way to Chicago just for a pizza. Pete also met some of his favorite athletes along the way, including Muhammad Ali and Pete Rose. But no other team or sports figure captured his heart more than the Michigan Wolverines. Pete was a diehard Wolverines fan and made that well known around town. One of his favorite places to be was at the Big House on a Saturday with family and friends cheering on his team. “Go Blue!” and a grin on his face. Pete's passion for sports and his athleticism knew no bounds. He was also an avid marathon runner, including finishing the Boston Marathon. Pete loved golfing, some might say too much, and made it out onto the course any chance he could. He was always on the go, traveling anywhere from Cedar Point to Bermuda and in-between. But you could catch him just as happy relaxing in his own pool at home.

Most importantly, and above all, Pete loved his family. He was always there for them no matter what. From basketball games to horse shows to school field trips, he was always there. He never missed anything. Pete and his wife Fran were married for 37 years, creating a beautiful life together. Raising 4 girls was enough to drive anyone crazy but he handled it with the most patience and care. He was an amazing father, the absolute best! When his kids were grown, Pete welcomed the new role of Grandpa with open arms. He cherished his grandkids and enjoyed making new memories with them.

Pete had many friends throughout his years and always greeted you with a smile and a “Hey! How we doing?”. Burger King with the boys was a staple in his week. Pete was the type of person who was always ready to help someone out. He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He was someone you could always count on and trust. And Pete absolutely loved a good laugh. His positivity, optimism, humor, story telling, wisdom, kindness, and how he embraced life will be deeply missed. There aren't enough words to capture a person so wonderful that touched the lives of so many. A true one-of-a-kind, Pete will live on in our hearts forever...and forever GO BLUE!

A Celebration of Life will be September 18, 2026. The location and time will be announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Financial Assistance for Cancer Treatment (F.A.C.T.), P. O. Box 624, Tiffin, Ohio 44883 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Condolences may be sent and the guestbook signed at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com.