John “Jack” F. Klingmeyer, 83, of New Castle passed away May 27, 2018 at home surrounded by his family.
Jack was a graduate of St. Peter School, and attended the University of Delaware and Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina. He was very athletic and loved playing all sports. He was a proud member of the Air Force, and also the Army National Guard and Air National Guard. He was a long-time member of the Rotary Club, St. Anthony’s Club, and St. Gabe’s Club.

A lifelong resident of Historic New Castle, Jack was passionately involved in local politics. He was a City Councilman and City Council President, and he held the office of Mayor for 38 years. Jack loved his city and took great pride and responsibility in caring for its residents. He was a staunch democrat and champion of the people. He thoroughly embraced political issues as well as his inherent gift for advocating for others.
Jack was a lifelong parishioner of St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church and served as a lector for most of his adult life. He was a devout catholic and great supporter of his church and parish.

Jack had many occupations in his early adulthood, including Ferry Boat Dockhand, working for General Motors, and the DuPont Company. Jack took over running his family’s retail liquor store business in his 20’s and did so for over 50 years until the time of his passing.

Jack was an avid reader with a sharp mind and a lifelong zest for learning (he earned his scuba diving certificate at the age of 72). He loved sharing knowledge and history with others. He loved government and was passionate about politics, and he truly enjoyed a lively debate about political and social issues. He greatly enjoyed classical music and attending the orchestra with his family and friends. He enjoyed golfing (even badly), watching sporting events, photography, a good party, and socializing with everyone. He was a good friend to many and had great compassion for those in need, always offering help and support. Jack loved a good sweet Manhattan and an ice-cold beer. He was king of telling a good “bad” joke with an Irish grin and a twinkle in his eye.

Jack left an impression on everyone he met and is deeply embedded in the hearts of his family and friends. He lived a humble and honorable life and left his caring mark of love and compassion on his community. He will be truly missed by his devoted family and many dear friends.

He is survived by his beloved children Tracy Willman (Scott), William Klingmeyer, Charles Klingmeyer (Michele), and Kristin Zumar (Blane), and his grandchildren Micheal, Laurel, TJ, Sarah, Kaylyn, Billy, Brady, Paige, Chase, Griffin, and Braeden. He is also survived by his loving brother Fred Klingmeyer (Margaret), sister Betsy (Klingmeyer) Foster, brother-in-law Joe Givens, mother of his children Harriet Ann van Boven, and his many nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his parents Charles and Elizabeth, brother Charles “Sonny,” sister Mary Ann (Klingmeyer) Givens, and brother-in-law Jim Foster.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church, 5th and Harmony Streets, New Castle DE, on Friday June 1st at 10:00 am. Interment will follow mass in the adjoining church cemetery. Friends may call at the church on Thursday May 31 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm.

Jack and his family greatly appreciate the care and assistance provided by Compassionate Care Hospice. In lieu of flowers please make contributions to St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church in New Castle, Little Sisters of the Poor, or your favorite charity in Jack’s memory.

Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of John F "Jack" Klingmeyer, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.