Kleinhenz, Michael “Mike” Alvin, 66, of Fisherville, KY passed away in the presence of his dear loved ones Monday, January 19, 2015 at the Hosparus IPU. Mike was a graduate of Bishop David High School and the University of Louisville’s Speed School. He was a Mechanical Engineer and retired Project Manager from Hussung Mechanical in which he enjoyed working for over 14 years. He worked over 30 years total in the Commercial Construction Industry in various roles including: Vice President, President and Owner. He was a member of the Risen Lord Lutheran Church where he served as a valued trustee. He was a Hosparus volunteer and participated in their annual Camp Evergreen.
Mike was a modern day Renaissance Man. If he was interested in it, he not only learned it, he conquered it. Not too many men in this world have both mini marathon medals hanging on the wall, but also championship belt buckles from riding cutting horses. He was also a Texas Two-Step Dancing Champion, House Boat Captain and most recently a woodworking savant. He also fished in tournaments as a young man, but his self-proclaimed greatest accomplishment in life was instilling an integrity of hard work and responsibility into his three children, who subsequently will instill those same traits into his five beloved grandchildren. To sum Mike up with one word, would be a challenge, but he would be flattered to be called a Craftsman. His true gift was instilled in him by his Father, but executed over years of practice. Mike could not only draw plans for a house, he could build it too. He had several interests and hobbies including making hand-made turkey calls, working on old tractors and probably his all-time favorite, playing golf with his sons. There really wasn’t anything Mike did, that he did not master. He set a great example for his children and has set a great legacy for his grandchildren. To complete the description of Mike Kleinhenz, you cannot stop at the physical skills he has with his hands. His sharp wit and smooth demeanor are what draw most people to him. When he walked into a room, he not only caught everyone’s attention, he captured it. He could turn telling a knock-knock joke into a story, people were just drawn to him. He was a special man. His quick wit and sense of humor were intoxicating. Just being around Mike made you feel happy and that was always his goal. He loved to see people having a good time.
Mike’s untimely death was preceded by his beloved step-son Chad Bray and his parents Alvin and Marie Kleinhenz. Mike is survived by his wonderful wife, partner and best friend Adele Kleinhenz, his stepson Brian Bray, his oldest son John (Christy), his daughter Karey McDowell (Nick) and his youngest son Steve (Brandi). He will forever be saddened to have missed out on being a physical part of his grandchildren’s lives. He plans to always watch over them as they grow. Ava May & Mary Kate McDowell, Keeton Michael & Claire Ann Kleinhenz and Drew Stanley Kleinhenz are truly this Renaissance Man’s legacy and he could not be prouder of them.
Visitation will be on Thursday the 22 nd , 1-8 PM at Owen Funeral home, 9318 Taylorsville Road. Memorial service will be held on Friday, the 23 rd , 1 PM, at Risen Lord Lutheran Church, 5138 Taylorsville Road. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Mike’s name to Hosparus Louisville or Risen Lord Lutheran Church.