Richard W. Klee, Sr.

Richard W. Klee, Sr., of Middleport, NY, entered the Lord’s garden on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at the age of 83.

Born January 7, 1943 in Medina, he was a son of the late Harry H. and Verna (Zanow) Klee. Richard was a graduate of Barker High School. On April 8, 1964 he married the love of his life, the former Carol A. Taylor. The couple lived in Barker and raised a family of four children and eventually moved to Middleport. Richard was employed by FMC in Middleport and retired after 33 years. Whether it was picking apples every fall or growing his large vegetable garden every year, Richard had a passion for farming. He also enjoyed playing bingo, the lottery and playing euchre. Above all, Richard cherished spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who were the lights of his life.

In addition to his parents, Richard was predeceased by five siblings, Eileen Petti, Donald Klee, Joyce Murphy, Lucy Kowalski and Carol Roberts.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 61 years, Carol Klee; four children, LuCinda (Michael) Woodruff of Newfane, Richard (Debra) Klee, Jr. of Middleport, Angela (Art) Sterner of Chandler, AZ and Gregory (Sheryl) Klee of Eggertsville; twelve grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren (one on the way); a sister, Geraldine Payne of Lockport; and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, Jan. 23 from 1-3PM immediately followed by his funeral service at 3PM at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home, 38 State St., Middleport. Interment will be at a later date in the spring in West Ridgeway Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates any memorial donations to be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org.