It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of David Klug of Milwaukee, WI, who died peacefully and surrounded by his children on February 2, 2022, at the age of 74. David grew up on the east side of Milwaukee and spent his childhood years hanging out down by the woods and river, swimming at Gordon Park and the JCC, riding his bike, and playing baseball. He attended Riverside High School where he admits he wasn't the best student but had a lot of fun. He taught himself to drive and dreamed of having a '62 Chevy and a motorcycle. Although he grew up in the city, he loved spending time in nature and spent many summers throughout his life on Wisconsin lakes. He eventually built a cabin so he and his family would have a place to spend summers together. After high school, he started working at AO Smith at 19 years old until he retired from the company, which was then Tower Automotive. He also attended Milwaukee Area Technical College. David proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War and was awarded a purple heart for injuries sustained during his service. He met his wife, Rita, in 1967 and went on to have three children for whom he worked hard and always provided. David and Rita created for their children a loving home and idyllic childhood that their children look back on fondly. David especially loved holidays and other special occasions when he was surrounded by family. Although their marriage ended after almost 25 years, David and Rita remained friends and were always together for special occasions. Rita, lovingly and patiently, helped to care for David at the end of his life. During this time, they became close again which was a beautiful thing for their family to witness. David loved classic cars and soulful music. He was one of the coolest and toughest guys a person could meet. Although he had an iron exterior, he had a soft heart and loved very deeply. He loved all of his children but favored his middle child the most. Just kidding, we all know Denise was his favorite, but he was ecstatic when he finally had his son, Ron, whom he named after the brother he lost tragically at a young age. The truth is he loved all of his children and grandchildren fiercely and equally. He also loved all of the pets his children and grandchildren brought home over the years. Although he would never admit to liking the cats, he could be caught petting them when he thought no one was around. His grandson's dog, Jax, was a constant companion in the last years of his life. David didn't talk much but was always ready with a joke. He loved to make people laugh. One of his favorite pastimes was playing cards, especially cribbage and sheepshead. He was incredibly good at strategy. His daughter, Amy, enjoyed playing chess with him even though he won every time. Later in life, when he needed more help, he moved in with his daughter, Denise, and his son-in-law, Larry, whom he loved like his own. Denise and Larry took amazing care of him until the end. David fought hard through multiple illnesses. Although stubborn, and refusing to follow all of the doctors' and his family's advice, he never gave up. He lived life his way. He is loved and remembered by his friend, Rita Klug; his children, Denise (Larry) Nord, Amy (Bradley) Ocain, and Ronald Klug; his grandchildren, Trevor Nord, Larry David Nord, Jr., and Hudson Ocain; and many other family and friends. The care David received from the VA Medical Center undoubtedly extended his life and gave his family more precious time with him. For this we will be forever grateful and we encourage anyone who would like to contribute to David's memory at this time, to consider donating to the veterans' program of their choice. He will be forever missed. Memorial visitation at the Funeral Home on Saturday, April 2, 2022 from 2-4PM with a Service of Remembrance and Military Honors at 4 PM. A dinner will follow. Prasser-Kleczka Funeral Home Bay View Chapel 3275 South Howell Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53207