Ralph Richard Kleiger

Ralph Richard Kleiger

May 12, 1922 - November 23, 2018

On November 23, 2018, Ralph Kleiger passed away peacefully in his home in Denver, Colorado. Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Imer Verlene ""Geri"" Kleiger, his two children Margy (Larry) Bookman of Steamboat Springs, CO and Jim (Nannette) Kleiger of Olney, MD, from his marriage to Angela DiTolla Kleiger; his two stepsons, Bill Morris of Hurricane, UT and Phillip Morris of Aurora, CO; and his many grand and great grandchildren.

Born in Denver on May 12, 1922 to Ann (Zall) and Edward Kleiger, Ralph grew up in East Denver with his two older siblings, Bert and Ethel, who preceded him in death. Over his 96 years, Ralph enjoyed countless close and loving friendships and led an active life full of travel and activities, including handball, skiing, hunting and fishing, skydiving and scuba diving. But golf was his constant companion up until his passing. Perfecting his golf game and learning to fly at the age of 68 brought him great joy.

Ralph operated many businesses over the years. After running a family jewelry business with his brother, he went on to own and operate a bar, a painting business, and a small flight training school.

A soldier in the 36^th Infantry Division, who later fought with the Army Rangers, Ralph saw combat in North Africa and Italy. His years of service to our country were a deep source of pride but sadly left scars that haunted him through the years.

Ralph was widely admired for his uncompromising ""toughness,"" respected for his keen intelligence, and loved for his deep goodness. He led a remarkable life and will be greatly missed.