Donald "Don" Edward Kleffner

Donald "Don" Edward Kleffner, 88, of Jefferson City, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2020 in Huntsville, Alabama. He was born on December 27, 1931 in Cedar Rapids, Nebraska, a son of Aloysius and Regina (Brockwinkle) Kleffner. Don was the youngest of six brothers. When World War II started most of his brothers joined the Navy which left more chores for Don. Don was in the eighth grade at the time. Within a few months, it was obvious school was the something that had to go, this made more time to do chores on the farm with his father. A few years later, he followed in his brothers footsteps and enlisted in the Navy and became a "boiler technician" at the age of 19. Don spent 21 years in the Navy, where he ended his time as a Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO-E9). He then became a member of the Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair for the U.S. Navy from 1980 to 1997, where he retired and moved back to Missouri. Don was a member of the American Legion Post 5 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 2693. Don built his house and large workshop outside of Jefferson City where he pursued his passion of repairing all types of farm machinery and cars for neighbors, friends and relatives. Don grew tomatoes and was known for the best "bread and butter" pickled cucumbers. He enjoyed dancing at the Eagles Club on Friday nights and playing cards with friends. He is survived by his children: Randolph Kleffner, Glenn Kleffner, Kenneth Kleffner, Scott Kleffner and Jody Wells; grandchildren: Amy, Michael, Sarah, Vickie, Amanda, Nickolas, Brittany, Jordan and Justin; great-grandchildren: Jay, Cheyenne, Nora, Emmett, Owen, Charlie, Oliver, Archie and Ila. Don was preceded in death by his brothers: Walter, Andrew, Alfred, Raymond, Clarence Kleffner; and eldest son, Dennis Kleffner. Friends will be received from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2020 at Houser-Millard Funeral Directors with Funeral Services following at 2:00 p.m. Interment with full military honors will follow services at Riverview Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65109, (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.