Thomas E. Klein Sr.

Thomas Klein Sr. went by many names and titles throughout his life - and not just because he was a husband, brother, dad, grandpa, and GOAT- but because he was an eccentric man who at times would experiment with language, for a while insisting everyone call him Mot.

Tom was a Whittlerizer of the world and if you were fortunate enough to know him, you’ll know what that means and undoubtedly agree.

He grew up in St. Louis, Missouri where he played soccer, making it to the St. Mary’s Hall of Fame and the St. Louis University championship team. He graduated from SLU with an engineering degree before serving abroad as Captain in the Air Force.

Tom was married to Alice for 58 years. They met and married while Tom attended officer’s training school in San Antonio, then moved to Africa where Tom was stationed before settling back in San Antonio. They had many adventures together. As SAFC season ticket holders, they watched nearly every home game until Tom grew too sick to attend. They also loved Fiesta and regularly attended the events.

Tom passed away at 83, but maintained an active life and youthful spirit by juggling, practicing judo, visiting the Y to swim and play handball, biking, gardening, trying out new restaurants (and frequenting the good ones), and playing catch with his dog.

He could turn any piece of junk into his next art project as showcased by his one-of-a-kind backyard. He had an insatiable curiosity and drive to increase his knowledge and learn new skills but his favorite activity was spending time with his family especially his great grandkids
who adored him.

He is preceded in death by his grandson Rodney, granddaughter Michelle, son Tommy, parents Otto and Mary and brothers, John and Bob. He is survived by his wife Alice, daughters, Kayna and Kristi, grandkids, Allison, Justin, and Kaden, great grandkids, Aldo and Ofelia, his sisters
Marianne and Cookie, all his nephews and nieces, and his dog, Dixie.

His family and friends will always remember him, but especially when we take a bike ride, consider our next move in a chess match or Scrabble game, wear a soccer jersey, share paella, or meet for tacos early on a Saturday morning.