Russel Lee Kleinfelter

Russel Lee Kleinfelter, age 69, of Biloxi, passed away on Thursday, July 20, 2017 at Greenbriar Nursing Center, after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Russel was born in Palmyra, PA to Russell and Eleanor Kleinfelter on May 24, 1948. As a child, he learned to shoot guns with his Papa, Francis Ludwick. As he grew older, Russel rode motorcycles and flew airplanes. Russel graduated from Palmyra, PA high school in 1966 and also received his pilot’s license that same year. He met his wife, Joyce Donton, in July 1971 and they married December 24, 1971. Russel served in the Army during the Vietnam War as a Refueling Specialist, earning the National Defense Service Medal and an Honorable Discharge. Russel took pride in the family’s gun business, Kleinfelter’s Firearms Unlimited, where he worked side by side with his wife, best friend, and soul mate, Joyce, from 1976-1986. He also worked as a Millwright for the Hershey Chocolate Company for 13 years and was forced to retire after being diagnosed with MS in 1986. After retirement, the family moved to Biloxi, MS where he grew a passion for exotic birds. His favorite exotic bird was Tiki, his blue and gold Macaw. Tiki always helped him cope and feel better when he had multiple sclerosis flare ups. While Russel also enjoyed shooting guns, target practice, flying airplanes and raising exotic birds, his best times were spending time with his family. Russel was a loving father, husband, grandfather and friend to all. He was preceded in death by his father, Russell Kleinfelter; and his maternal grandparents, Frances and Esther Ludwick. Russel is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Joyce; two children, Kris Kleinfelter (Jeff) Rosa and Kelly Kleinfelter (Chris) Dennis; his mother, Eleanor Kleinfelter Axe; his brother, Bruce (Janice) Kleinfelter. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Tiffany Lombardo, Ashley Rosa, Alyssa Rosa and Joshua Lombardo; one great-granddaughter, Lilliana Grace Gibbings; and adopted son, Christopher Tate. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Southern Care Hospice and Greenbriar Nursing Center for their care and support in his final days. A Graveside Service will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery on Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 2:30 pm with Preacher Randy Robbins officiating the service. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.