Gary Kloepfer died following a series of health issues on February 5, 2023 at the age of 69.
Gary is survived by his wife Judy Kloepfer (nee Kelley); his children Timothy (Angi) Kloepfer, Christopher (Magee) Kloepfer, Katie (Rob) Burkhardt, Megan Kloepfer, and Eric Kloepfer. Beloved PaPa (aka Batman) to grandchildren Brad Kloepfer, Cami Hubbard, Xavier Bell, Evan Burkhardt, Gavin Kloepfer, Eli Kloepfer, Isaiah Bell, Liam Burkhardt, Collin Kloepfer, Isaac Burkhardt, and Grace Kloepfer. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Kitty Kloepfer, and brother, Larry Kloepfer.
Gary was born in Cincinnati on November 2, 1953 to the late Jack and Kitty Kloepfer. He grew up in Price Hill with his 10 brothers and sisters Jim, Tom, Nick, Jay, Mary, Fran, Dan, Tracey, Marty, and Mike. He attended St. Lawrence and later Elder High School. After Gary graduated from Elder High School in 1971, he enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1973.
Gary met Judy, the love of his life, at a high school dance in 1970. They were engaged in 1972 and married on May 3, 1974. Shortly after came Tim, Chris, Katie, and Megan with Eric following quite a bit later.
Gary was a dedicated union man, first working for the US Postal Service and then for the American Postal Workers Union (APWU). While working, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from the National Labor College in 2012. He retired as the Legislative Director of the APWU in 2013.
In his retirement, he continued to work in labor and employment relations. Gary often referred to himself as a labor & employment arbitrator/mediator superstar who allowed people to talk about difficult issues, explore realistic solutions, and negotiate agreements.
Gary enjoyed spending time with his 11 grandchildren, attending their sporting events and other activities. He also liked to sit on the porch and take walks with his dog, Kooper.
Visitation Thurs., Feb. 9, 5 – 8 PM at the Dennis George Funeral Home, 44 S. Miami, Cleves. Mass of Christian Burial Fri., Feb. 10 at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of Visitation Church, 3172 South Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45248.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Gary’s memory to the Freestore Foodbank or Hospice of Cincinnati. dennisgeorgefunerals.com