James Klingler

James R. Klingler, 93, of Bellevue passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the Bellevue Care Center.  He was born to Russell E. and Margaret Klingler on November 10, 1930 in Columbus.

James was a 1948 graduate of Centerburg High School.  After graduation he attended Capital University and Columbus Business College.  A third generation merchant, Jim spent most of his life in retail and wholesale sales.  In the early 1980’s he purchased the Ben Franklin Store and owned and operated it until its closing in 1992.  As a business owner, Jim was very active in the Bellevue business community; He established the downtown business association, served as President of the Chamber of Commerce and the Bellevue Development Corporation.

He is survived by his wife, Betty (Russo), whom he married January 7, 1994 at Seybert UMC; children: J. Michael (Connie) Klingler, Thomas Klingler, Lin (Bruce) Krecow, 9 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, James is preceded in death by his son, David Klingler and grandson, Jason Klingler.

A funeral service will begin on Thursday, January 4 at 2 pm at Foos & Foos Funeral Service, 151 Yorkshire Place, Bellevue.  Burial will follow at Bellevue City Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Klingler, please visit our floral store.