Larry Lee Klopfenstein

Larry Lee Klopfenstein, 80, of Olympia, Washington passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025. He was a beloved dad, papa, brother, and friend. He was born on April 21, 1945, in Hastings, Michigan to Evelyn (Nash) Klopfenstein and Gaylord Klopfenstein. He grew up in Lake Odessa, Michigan. He graduated as a salutatorian from Lakewood High School in 1963. He graduated from Western Michigan University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and special education. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, Zeta Nu chapter. He held a variety of support roles at the University including president of the interfraternity council and student union. He later attended Seattle University and received his degree of Master of Public Administration in 1985. He devoted 40 years of his career to public service; he spent his last 31 years of service at Washington State’s Department of Health. Throughout his career his genuine focus was to better the lives of others; he was a tremendous asset to the agencies he worked for.

Larry married Mary (Stowell) Klopfenstein in 1965. They had two daughters, Rochelle and Dana. Even though they divorced they continued to have a loving relationship. His eldest daughter, Rochelle, passed away in 2008. He took an active role in the lives of Rochelle’s children, his grandchildren, Zach and Hailey. Time spent with family, especially his grandchildren, and friends brought him joy and happiness.

Larry had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He always desired learning about history and researching topics of interest. He was passionate about gardening; he spent endless hours tending to his garden which offered him a place to relax and connect with nature. He enjoyed traveling. Larry was diagnosed with three different cancers in his life. He worked tenaciously to live and thrive. He was an inspiration to many.

Larry is survived by his daughter Dana (Joe) Bando, grandchildren, Zach McReynolds and Hailey McReynolds, sister, Sharon (Ben) Smith, extended family, and dear friends, all who will forever cherish his memory.

A private burial service was held with family and close friends. An informal gathering to honor and celebrate Larry will be from 1:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Steh Chass room at Little Creek Casino Resort, 91 West State Route 108, Shelton, WA  98584. In lieu of flowers, the family would be thankful for contributions to the Rochelle Klopfenstein Memorial Scholarship Fund established in 2008 through the Tumwater Education Foundation, 120 State Avenue NE #303, Olympia, WA  98501. Please make checks payable to Tumwater Education and reference Rochelle Klopfenstein Scholarship Fund on check.