Lenard J. Kling Jr.

Lenard J. Kling Jr., a lifelong resident of the Otsego area, passed away on October 25, 2026, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. Born on January 30, 1956, in Plainwell, Lenard was the son of Lenard and Patricia (Stephens) Kling. He was known to many throughout the community as a kind and familiar presence whose steady nature and friendly manner left a lasting impression.

A graduate of Otsego High School’s Class of 1974, Lenard remained deeply rooted in the place he called home. He spent his entire working life with Harding’s Market, the only job he ever had, and became a friendly face to generations of customers over the course of 48 years. He began at the Otsego store, continuing there until it closed, and later retired from the West Main location in 2023. His long career reflected loyalty, dedication, and a genuine connection to the people he served each day.

Outside of work, Lenard enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought him happiness. He liked reading and had a love for antiques.

Lenard is survived by his brother, Kevin (Shelly) Kling of Otsego; his nieces, Amanda (Wayne) VanDenburg of Clarksville and Randi (Joe Gauthier) Kling of Plainwell; great niece and nephew, Dylan VanDenburg and Raelynn Gauthier with another great-nephew, George Gauthier due soon along with many cousins including special cousin, Eda McNees. He was preceded in death by his parents.

He will be remembered with affection by those who knew him as a dependable worker, a quiet and caring family man, and someone whose presence was a constant in the community for nearly five decades. Lenard’s life was marked by faithfulness to home, to work, and to the people around him, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. 

Friends may visit with Lenard’s family from 2-4PM, Sunday, November 1, 2026, at the Winkel Funeral Home in Otsego, where a funeral service will take place at 11:00 A.M., Monday, November 2, 2026, with celebrant Nyla Merrill officiating. 

Burial will follow at Mountain Home Cemetery.

Contributions in memory of Lenard may be directed to the Otsego Public Schools Foundation. 

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