Robert E. Klingler, 94, of Wellington, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, surrounded by his family. Born on September 21, 1927 in Jackson Township, he was the son of the late Russel and Lydia (nee Stager) Klingler. Robert grew up in Sullivan and was a 1946 graduate of Sullivan High School. Following graduation, he joined the Marine Corps, proudly serving until 1951, although he truly lived the adage, "once a Marine, always a Marine" and remained active with various military organizations.

Robert worked at the GM plant in Elyria, where he was active with the local 780 UAW and credit union. He retired in 1983 after 32 years. Robert also worked part time for Fraley and Fox construction in Amherst. He was an active member of the American Legion, Post 219 in Polk where he was Commander. He also served as Ashland County American Legion Commander, Adjutant, and Chaplain. Robert was an avid sports fan - loving his Cleveland teams, and also played fast pitch softball in the GM plant league as well as leagues in Huntington and Wellington. He also served as a Hot Stove and little league coach. Faith was a central part of Robert's life and he was a long time member of the New Life Assembly of God Church in Wellington. For over 21 years he worked maintenance for the church and went on several mission trips including to Ecuador and El Salvador.

Robert is survived by his children, Robin and Carole Klingler, of Wellington, and Linda Sue and Philip White, of Boliver; step children Ernie (Sue) Sanders, of Wellington, Debra Miller, of IN, Lori (Ronnie) Beckman, of MD; 16 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; sister, Barbara King, of Youngstown; and numerous nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruby Kallis and second wife, Joan Klingler; and siblings Martha Welch, Betty Musser, Kate Styer, Marge Halda, and Alvin Klingler.

Friends and family will be received on Monday, December 20, from 10 a.m. until the time of services beginning at 12 p.m. at Norton-Eastman Funeral Home, 370 South Main St, Wellington 44090. Burial will follow at Sullivan South View Cemetery. Donations in Robert's memory may be directed to the New Life Assembly of God Church, 108 West St, Wellington, 44090. Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.eastmanfuneralhome.com, where a live stream of the service can be viewed.