Frank Joseph Klein Jr., 81, of Elyria passed away on Friday February 7, 2025 after an unexpected illness at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. Born on June 23, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan, Frank moved to Ohio at the age of 12 and grew up in the Bellevue area, graduating from Thompson High School in 1962. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Chemistry and Biology from Bowling Green State University and built a long, successful career as a metallurgical engineer at Ford Motor Company's Brookpark foundry.

On June 19, 1965, Frank married the love of his life, Mary Ann (Schneider), and together they built a beautiful life in Elyria, raising five wonderful children: Denise Bradshaw (Dale), Frank Klein III (Theresa Quinn), Brian Klein (Andrea Hailey), Matt Klein (Suzy Botros) and Katie Kasper (Eric). He was A devoted father and even prouder "Papa" to 14 grandchildren, Nate, Dillon, Madeline, Russell, Joseph, Morgan, Andrew, Mitchell, Alayna, Isabella, Elizabeth, Henry, Ella, and Isaac, as well as one great-grandchild, Grace. Frank is also survived by his three sisters, Alice, Theresa and Bernadette. He was preceded in death by his parents Virginia and Frank Klein Sr. and his brother Jim.

Frank lived life with passion and joy. An avid bowler, a fierce euchre champion, and an unbeatable Scrabble player, he also took great pride in serving as the ultimate Fantasy Football commissioner. But above all, his greatest love-besides his family-was running. Whether at the Oberlin Reservoir or on a quiet path at the equestrian trails Frank found peace in nature, accompanied by his favorite music, a soundtrack filled with the hits of the 50's and 60's and heartfelt ballads. Frank also coached junior bowling and was a high school PSR/CCD teacher. After retiring from Ford, he and Mary Ann embraced their love of travel, cherished every moment together. Frank living big-he loved deeply, laughed often, and made an unforgettable impact on everyone who knew him.

His loss is immeasurable, but so is the love he left behind. He will be forever missed.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday March 8, 2025 at St. Agnes Church 911 Lake Ave., Elyria. The Rev. Fr. Charles Diedrick will be the Celebrant.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com