Kenneth Klumpp

Kenneth Frederick Owen Klumpp, known to many as Ken, died on October 13, 2026, at his home in Otsego. He was born on May 24, 1942, in Grand Rapids, the son of Kenneth and Irene (Flory) Klumpp.

Ken earned his master’s degree from Western Michigan University and will be remembered as a beloved teacher, coach, and athletic director at Plainwell Community Schools. He devoted his career to students, athletes, and the school community through his retirement in June 2000 and beyond. His lasting impact on Plainwell athletics and education was recognized when he was inducted into the Plainwell High School Hall of Fame in March 2007.

Beyond his work, Ken found great joy in playing cribbage and Euchre and especially in watching his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Papa,” play sports. His family fondly remembers many fun filled trips to Florida. He was a member of the Elks, served as President of the Lions Club, was involved with the MIAAA, and was an active member of Plainwell United Methodist Church. He was fiercely loyal to the Coca-Cola brand that became part of his well-known personality. With his father having worked for the Coca-Cola company, Ken was known never to order a Pepsi, and he took pleasure in adding to his large collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia.

Most of all, Ken treasured his family. He is survived by his wife, Josephine “Joey” Klumpp, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. He also leaves his daughters, Kimberly (Chris) Palmer and Amy-Jo (Dylan) Steele; his grandchildren Ben (Cassie) Palmer, Colin (Mari Bragg) Palmer; Cassidy (Jamie) Veenkant; and Gavyn Steele; great-grandchildren Rossi-Jo, Rhyan and Reese Veenkant and Joel and Eden Palmer.

Ken is also survived by his sister, Beth-Anne (David) Eggle; his sisters-in-law Irene (Richard) Ward, Christine (Robert) Hinklin, Pauline Brower, Judy Harrison-Lameyer, and Judy Harrison along with many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Dennis Klumpp; his sisters-in-law, Janet Klumpp and Clara Jane Tucker; brothers-in-law Bob (Ellen) Harrison, Jim (Emily) Harrison, Bill Harrison, and Pat Harrison; and his mother-in-law, Virginia Hoover Harrison Root.

Ken’s life was marked by commitment, community involvement, and deep love for those around him. He will be remembered with gratitude by his family, by the many students and athletes whose lives he influenced, and by all who knew him as Ken and as Papa.

Friends may visit with Ken’s family starting at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Plainwell United Methodist Church until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 P.M., with Pastor Amee Paparella officiating. 

Private family burial will take place at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego.

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Ken may be directed to Motts Children’s Hospital Pediatric Cancer Research Fund. 

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.