James D. Kleppinger

James D. Kleppinger         “beloved brother”

BRADFORD, Pa.---James D. “Jimmy” Kleppinger, 63, of Bradford, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, in UPMC Hamot, Erie, after suffering a massive stroke.

Born on Monday, August 25, 1958, in Abington, he was a son of John L. Sr. and Thomasina G. Magro Kleppinger. On May 28, 2001, he married Barbara Canney, who passed away on November 2, 2020.

He was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 1977, in Shinglehouse. He earned an Associate’s Degree in accounting from Hiram G. Andrew Center in Johnstown, graduating in 1979. Jimmy enlisted in the US Navy in 1984, serving aboard many ships, including the USS John F. Kennedy, traveling to many ports throughout the world, serving until 1999. He then re-enlisted in the US Navy Fleet Reserves, serving until 2013. He had many jobs after his service to his country, lastly working until the time of his death as a maintenance man at Walmart in Bradford.

Jimmy attended the Believer’s Chapel. On his down time, he enjoyed visiting different attractions, including the Kinzua Dam, Kinzua Bridge and other scenic sites. He also loved the local casinos.

Surviving are his seven siblings, John L. (Ray Leiker) Kleppinger, Jr. of Cathedral City, California, Thomas W. (Lorrie) Kleppinger of Doylestown, Diane K. (John Jr.) Surra of Deming, NM, Janice A. (Ken) Watson of Millport, Joyce M. Kleppinger of Philadelphia, Daniel W. Kleppinger of Bristol, and Beverly A. (Tim) Hutchins of Philadelphia; many nieces and nephews; three aunts; an uncle; and an abundance of cousins.

Jimmy was predeceased by his parents and his wife.

In keeping with Jimmy’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. A celebration of his life will be held on a date and place to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jimmy’s name may be made to Destinations, 1 Main Street, Bradford, PA 16701; the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (national office), 4550 Montgomery Avenue, Suite 1100 N, Bethesda, MD 20814; or to the Muscular Dystrophy Association at www.mda.donordrive.com

Jimmy’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Jimmy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

Jimmy’s last act of kindness was to graciously donate his organs so others may live.