Mervin Lester Kleinik
September 10, 1934 ~ October 18, 2024
Born in:
Fayette County , Illinois
Resided in:
MULBERRY GROVE, Illinois
Mervin Lester Kleinik, 90, of Mulberry Grove, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a cherished member of the community, he leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication.
Mervin was born September 10, 1934, in rural Fayette County, Illinois, the son of Walter M. and Ruth I. (Hoyle) Kleinik. He grew up in Mulberry Grove, Illinois, and lived there his whole life. On January 7, 1956, in Vandalia, Illinois, Mervin entered into marriage with Reta Ilene Gelsinger, she survives.
Married for 68 years to his devoted wife, Ilene, Mervin cherished their time, especially when they were able to work together, side by side. His passion for ice cream was matched only by his love for time spent with his grandchildren, instilling in them the values of hard work and responsibility.
Known for his meticulous nature, Mervin took pride in his yard, mowing on a precise four-day schedule and ensuring every weed was pulled. Even as his eyesight waned, he continued to work in the yard and garden, demonstrating his commitment to quality and care.
A hard worker, he had a remarkable ability to outpace those who were half his age, embodying his belief that success comes from reaching the peak. His dedication was seen in the 46 years he spent as a forklift operator for Alton Box and Board, later known as Jefferson Smurfit, in Highland Illinois. His word was his bond, and he was known for his organized approach to life, always knowing where the most random things were located. His life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and the importance of family.
After retiring, he discovered a love for deer hunting, embracing the outdoors with the same enthusiasm he showed in all his pursuits. While he had a notorious dislike for snakes, he found joy in spending time outside. You could always find him and Ilene outside, working around the house, washing the truck, and waving at the neighbors.
Preceding him in death were his parents Walter & Ruth; brothers, Dale, Gale, Berthal, and Norman Kleinik; sister, Geneva Mohrbacker.
Surviving Mervin are his loving wife, Ilene of Mulberry Grove, Illinois; sons, Michael D. Kleinik of Vandalia, Illinois and Terry L, (Sandy) Kleinik of Greenville Illinois; daughter, Shelia K. (Randy) Long of Mulberry Grove, Illinois; grandchildren, Ryan (Rebecca) Kleinik of Troy, Illinois, Amanda Perkins of Granite City, Illinois, Kyle (Stephanie) Hessenauer of Chatham, Illinois, Jared (Brooke) Kleinik of Greenville, Illinois, Tristin(Monica) Long of Virginia; seven great-grandchildren; siblings, Elmer Hoyle of Michigan, and Barbara Ann (Dewayne) Spencer of North Carolina.
Memorial contributions can be made to: Mulberry Grove Cemetery, P.O. Box 8, Mulberry Grove, Illinois 62262, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm -7:00 pm, Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at Assalley Funeral Home 118 E. College Ave, Greenville, Illinois 62246.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Assalley Funeral home in Greenville Illinois, with Rev. Dan Graybill officiating.
Burial will follow funeral services at Mulberry Grove Cemetery, Rte. 140, Mulberry Grove, Illinois 62262.
The family has entrusted Assalley Funeral Home in Greenville with the ceremonies.
Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories or offer condolences to the family.
Services
Visitation: October 22, 2024 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Assalley-Young Funeral Home
118 E. College Ave.
Greenville, IL 62246
Funeral Service: October 23, 2024 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Assalley-Young Funeral Home
118 E. College Ave.
Greenville, IL 62246
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Mervin Lester Kleinik 's name.
Mulberry Grove Cemetery
Village of Mulberry Grove, P.O. Box 8
Mulberry Grove,
IL
62262
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Attn: Memorial Giving
501 St. Jude Place
Memphis,
TN
38105
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love you all.
Uncle Mervin I remember you as a little girl having you and Aunt Ilene babysitting us kids while Mom and Dad were out doing things they needed to do. My only regret was not getting to know you more as an adult. I know you were a good man by the way you raised your children who have done well in their lives. You will be missed on this earth but I know you are in the presence of God and glorifying Him. Rest well my sweet Uncle of your reward in Heaven. ❤️
I’m so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
My condolences to the family. God blessed another kind soul will be missed by many.