John "Jack" G. Klinge

John Gorman "Jack" Klinge Sr., 87, of Westport, Connecticut passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jack was born to John Henry Klinge and Molly Gorman Klinge and was predeceased by his parents and brother, Dennis Klinge.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Jeanne Bange Klinge; his son John Gorman Klinge, Jr. of Lake Forest, Illinois; his daughter, Courtney Klinge of San Francisco and her husband, Eric Prosnitz; and his son Jeff Klinge of Rumson, New Jersey and his wife, Stacey Klinge. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Cassie Longo, John Gorman "Jack" Klinge III, and Will Klinge; Paulina, Eliana, and Alexa Prosnitz; and Logan and Davis Klinge.

A gifted student and lifelong learner, Jack graduated from Cornell University with a degree in Chemical Engineering and served as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy aboard the USS Thetis Bay during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his military service, he earned his MBA from Harvard Business School.

Jack enjoyed a distinguished career in marketing, including leadership roles with General Foods, Arm & Hammer, Topps Chewing Gum Company, and Score Baseball Cards. He combined creativity, strategic thinking, and a love of sports throughout his professional life.

While his professional accomplishments were many, Jack's greatest impact was felt in the community he loved. A resident of Westport for more than fifty years, he devoted countless hours to public service and civic engagement. He coached youth baseball and softball for many years, mentored students, served as a substitute teacher, and became the longest-serving member of Westport's Representative Town Meeting. He was deeply involved in the development and growth of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, helping create a lasting resource that continues to enrich the lives of older residents.

Jack believed strongly in giving back. Whether delivering holiday meals to homebound seniors, mentoring young people, advocating for thoughtful public policy, or volunteering his time wherever it was needed, he approached every endeavor with integrity, humility, and optimism.

Above all else, Jack cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. His kindness, wisdom, humor, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those who knew him.

Jack's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity and leadership.

Family and friends are invited to attend services at St. Luke Catholic Church, in Westport, Connecticut at 12:30pm on Friday, June 12, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Westport Center for Senior Activities (21 Imperial Avenue, Westport, CT 06880).