Norman Klopfenstein

Norman William Klopfenstein, 95, of Jackson Center, passed away at Brookdale Assisted Living, in Piqua, on February 18, 2025. He was born on June 11, 1929 at the Klopfenstein family farm in Logan County, Ohio, to the late Henrick and Mamie (Kaehler). On a blind date, he was introduced to his young bride, Virginia (Regula) by his future brother-in-law. Little did he know that that the neighbor girl down the road would be by his side throughout his life. They were married on June 19, 1948 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Clay Township. This Last year they celebrated 76 years of marriage. 

Norman is survived by his wife Virginia, four daughters, Jennifer (the late Robert) Blythe, Peggy (Doug) Ware, Lora (Terry) Clinehens, Kay (Mark) Copeland, 11 Grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter Susan Mae Klopfenstein, grandson Ryan Ware, son-in-law Robert Blythe, his three siblings, Adrian (Pat) Klopfenstein, Esther (Avery) Knasel, Elda (Russell) Oakley, and in-laws, LeRoy (Phyllis) Regula, Lucille (Walter) Klopfenstein, Ruth (William) Knief, and Leona (Russell) Bunker. 

Norman was raised on his parent's farm and he was brought up at a young age to work and help around the farm. He graduated from Jackson Center High School in 1947. Norman wore many hats over the years and worked various jobs being employed for more than 30 years at Airstream and after his retirement 18 ½ years at Holloway Sportswear. Norman was quite the story teller reminiscing about memories from his homestead, family outings and sports. In baseball he was quite the outfielder, and liked to show off his athletic ability in the outfield including turning a summersault while catching a fly ball. He enjoyed following the Jackson Center Tigers wearing his orange and black, hunting in his younger years, going to gun shows, watching Gunsmoke on television, and playing cards. He liked to relax on the patio and watch the deer and the humming birds. He especially looked forward to spending time with family and friends. Norman was fond of tinkering in his woodshop. He had quite the collection of tools including several handed down from his father. He made several unique items which included birdhouses, mitten boxes, whirly-gig ducks, and stools of all shapes and sizes. 

Norman was a life-time member of St. Jacob's Lutheran Church, Jackson Township, a life member of the Tri-County Gun Association, and Ohio Sheriff's Association. Norman's wisdom, strength of spirit and sense of humor will remain unforgotten and will be cherished by those who knew and loved him. 

A visitation will be held on Friday – February 28th, 2025 from 10AM – 11AM, at St. Jacob's Lutheran Church, Jackson Township, with a Funeral Service starting at 11AM. Burial will follow at Glen Cemetery, Port Jefferson. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your choice of charity in honor of Norman. Salm – McGill & Tangeman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Klopfenstein Family. Condolences may be expressed to the family at salm-mcgillandtangemanfh.com