David Lee Kluge

David Lee Kluge, 55, of Duarte, California, passed away on Saturday, October 9, 2021. He was born on September 20, 1966 in Kansas City, Missouri to Frederick and Jacqueline Kluge.

David has always been a "people pleaser." He always wanted to help, was a hard worker, and an all-around "good guy." He loved his family and children very much. As in any family, some rough times, but in the end, no regrets.

As a child, David was very ambitious, a go getter, with non-stop energy. We believe that he had received the most stitches in a year than all the neighborhood kids in their lifetime. Double dare David, he'd do it.

Growing up is never without trials and tribulations, as we all know. David always forgave and was forgiven. He came out on the other side stronger, wiser, and with a new found idea of hope and love.

Moving to California in the early 2000's, only to move back home in 2005, with the loss of his father. He moved back into the family home and took on the responsibility of helping his mother and caring for the family.

David moved back to California 4 years ago to follow his dreams and aspirations once again. Working with his sheet metal union buddies, and being able to work every day, would take him to retirement earlier. He wanted to eventually retire, get an RV and travel the United States.

The 55 Chevy, dad's truck and other cars! What can we say about his hot rods! Anyone that knew David, knew that these vehicles meant SO much to him! All of them were an extension of hard work and love he shared with his brother, Wes and his dad, Ted. He was so incredibly proud and excited to finally complete these projects.

David fought really hard and had several set-backs during his entire hospitalization. He had nicknames for most of the staff; like Glenn "The Man," which was one of his RN's and Jose "The Good Dude," one of his care takers. When they walked in the room, he'd always light up and say "What's Happening." During his conversations with his doctors, nurses, the social worker, the chaplain, and all care staff; he expressed his deep love for God and his family. He left a lasting impression on the entire staff as being a "guy's guy" and a "special man." Always discussing with staff his concerns over how his family was feeling and the sorrow for him, instead of his own excruciating pain.

Before and after David's passing it is incredibly apparent that he has left a life-long lasting impression with so many people. From Kansas, Missouri, Alaska, Arkansas, and California; from childhood friends to his co-workers of all walks of life, they are so very proud to call Dave their brother!

His laugh, larger than life personality, jokes, antics, love, and the every present "What's Happening?" over the phone and in person… will be sorely missed.

During some of his last days, he prayed with and prayed over by a very compassionate and kind staff. He mentioned to his sister, Linda that he wasn't scared and was glad to go be with his (2) fathers. Which confused his sister, until the grin. Then it made perfect sense (1) Our Heavenly Father and (2) his dad, Ted. Typical David Kluge!

We all love you David. We will miss your physical presence. We know that you are whole again and without pain, as you are now a part of something bigger. We will all see you again when we get to go home too.

David is survived by his mother, children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father.

Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00pm on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at Penwell Gabel's Olathe Chapel. The graveside service will be at 10:00am on Friday, at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Overland Park, KS.

The family requests that contributions in David's memory be made to Wayside Waifs, 3901 Martha Truman Rd, Kansas City, MO 64137.






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