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Thomas “Tom” M. Kleis, age 61, of White Cloud, was called home by the Lord on December 5th, 2022, after side effects related to his battle with cancer. He was born July 8, 1961, in Holland, Michigan, to the late George and Jeannie (Mowery) Kleis. Tom proudly served his country for six years in the Michigan Army National Guard.
Tom was an underground sprinkling service manager for many years before opening his own irrigation business, White River Facility Support, in 2014. He was an avid hunter who never missed a day in the woods for deer season or the chance to take a walk down the trails of his favorite hunting camp, “bear island”. Together with his wife, he enjoyed frequent road trips out west, to the Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and wherever the map took them to enjoy the natural beauty of the world. His infectious laugh, witty jokes and huge heart will be missed by all who knew him.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife & soulmate Denise Kleis (Backstrom); daughters, Elizabeth Barber and Stephanie Kleis; grandsons, Brent Kleis and Kaleb Maynard; brother, Steve Kleis; parents-in-law, Allen Backstrom and Sandra Clevinger; brother-in-law, Scott Backstrom; sister-in-law, Sheryl Kleis; nephew and close friend, Cody “Jib” Boyd, as well as many other nieces, nephews, cousins and long-time friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Jeannie Kleis and brother, Larry Kleis.
A celebration of life gathering with family and friends will be held at a later date.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Tom’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006, exclusive providers of Veterans Funeral Care.
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Our condolences to you all. He was an awesome person full of love and my family shared many laughs with him. We are so grateful to have been apart of his journey on earth. R.I.P our friend may you be out of pain and at peace. Now you can hunt and fish everyday.. You will be missed..
Beyond many memories, the most memorable is when I shot my first buck with Jib in his blind. “Jib did I hit it?” Jib laughs. “Did I??” Jib said “dropped it in it’s tracks!”
-Cody “Jib” Boyd
Tom was a good man.
So sorry to hear about your dad Elizabeth and Steph. Tom was a good man and always so laid back and good spirit about him. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. Love Jen (taters mom)