Fred Kling, 81, of Denair, was born in Hempstead, NY to David Kling and Gladys (Pearsall) Kling. When Fred was eight his Mother married Clarence Goldberg, who helped raise him. Fred grew up in Rockville Centre (Long Island) New York and graduated from High School there. After high school he joined the Air Force and served as an Air Force cook during the Korean War. He served in Texas, Okinawa, and at Castle AFB in California. In 1953 he was honorably discharged from the Air Force and he married the love of his life, Betty Durst. Fred worked for several years as an electrician in New York and in California after moving here in 1958. Fred got his pilot's license and loved to fly. Fred owned his own flight service and provided instruction and charter flight service. He later worked for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Ass'n. (AOPA) as Head of their Safety Division. He was involved in pilot training and safety seminars. Fred worked for DeMare Brothers as an executive pilot for 18 years after leaving the AOPA. Fred enjoyed woodworking, leather working, building computers and traveled extensively with his wife.
Fred is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty Kling of Denair and daughter Laura Kling of Chico, California. Visitation will be at Allen Mortuary on Thursday, May 17th from 4 to 6 pm. A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery at Santa Nella, CA. Please leave memories and condolences at www.allenmortuary.com.

Turlock Journal,
Wednesday, May 15, 2012