Gerald F. Klei, 86 years old, died on November 28, 2021. He leaves behind his wife of 61 years, Mary Ann Contadino Klei, and four children;
Mark, Jaimie (Alicia), Tim, deceased (Tonya), Antoinette Ullinger, six grandchildren and one great grandchild. His sister Phyllis is the only remaining sibling. He was preceded in death by his brothers; Tom, Mike, David and Ron.
Gerald was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on April 16, 1936. There he pursued his career as a Liquefied Synthetic Pre-frabricated Wall Application Engineer (Inert and Organic) and raised a family with Mary Ann. They moved to Arizona in 1987 where he served as Vice President of Interior design during the construction of the Phoenician Hotel. He later pursued his love of model trains by operating a train store at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park called “Gerry’s Trains”.
Funeral services will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Community Church at 10815 N. 84th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 on Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 11:00 AM.
A memorial will be held at a later date in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Flowers may be sent to St. Patrick Catholic Community Church.
Terence Hensey
I am greatly saddened that we have lost such an enduring and creative soul. I have found memories of joy in the presence of his family and in his creativity. He and my grandfather Hochstrasser both have taught and motivated me to take joy in doing so many things with my own two hands. Wherever Gerry finds himself, I hope he finds even more challenging and joyful projects. With much love, my condolences.
The price family
Sincere condolences on Gerrys passing. Love and prayers to all the family. May God welcome him with open arms
Bill Mahan
Mary Ann, I am sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. While I only knew Gerry for the last half dozen years, he was very talented and a great resource for me on pre and post war Lionel trains and a good friend. When I brought a train to Gerry for repair, I always enjoyed spending time with him, looking at his hand built models and learning of his past experiences with The Phoenician. Gerry will be missed by all of his friends, including me.