Ryan 'Dell' Kloepfer of Camano Island passed away peacefully on May 21, 2022 at the age of 82. A life of love, service, family, hard work, and laughter left a mark on all who knew him.

Born November 22, 1939 to Moroni Kloepfer and Ethel Trumbo in Nampa, Idaho, Dell spent his childhood through his teenage years in Kuna, Idaho. He excelled as a student, athlete, reporter, and leader in his school days. He grew up on the family ranch, developing his talents for later in life, including a strong work ethic. He was the youngest of 5 siblings, including Merrie Lu, Robert, Ron, and Jim. Dell was close to his siblings throughout life and had many wonderful times with them.

Dell attended University of Idaho and University of Washington, receiving degrees in engineering. Offered a job at Boeing following his graduation, he moved to the Seattle area and began his life as an engineer, working on the 707, 747, 727, 737, and multiple other projects. Much travel and many adventures highlighted his years with the Boeing Company (with a one year detour to Lockheed), as he worked on the newest planes and helped develop them for roll out. Trips around the world to help identify issues and develop ideas for planes resulted in an opportunity to experience many cultures and countries.

During his time at University of Washington, he formally met and dated Mildred Staples, eventually marrying her in 1967. Fifty-four plus years of marriage followed and she was the center of his life. No one and nothing was more important to Dell than his wife. His example as a loving husband and father is a legacy passed on to all who knew him. Five children joined the Kloepfer family through the years – Ryan (Stacey), Roger (Kelly), Melinda (David), Russell (Erin), and Megan (Chad). Seventeen grandchildren and a great grandchild (so far) added to the happy bunch, and Dell doted on every single one of his family members. He worried about their challenges, celebrated each success, and was there in every time of need. What an example!

Dell also loved the Lord and lived his life accordingly. His faith and willingness to serve were consistent parts of the life he lived. He and Milly served three church missions. They spent time in Missouri, Salt Lake City, and Ohio on their missions and thrived on interacting with people and serving others. He was active in his church callings, genealogy, and enjoyed sharing his testimony and beliefs in the plan of happiness.

Through his life moving from Redmond to Woodinville (the property) to ending up on Camano Island, Dell constantly was busy around the home. His talent of working with his hands came in handy through the multiple 'gently used' cars the family drove over the years. Just ask any family member about the orange van and a smile is guaranteed. He also spent countless hours and energy on the property in Woodinville, finishing the downstairs, cutting firewood, landscaping, and creating a beautiful home for the family. Many weekends and vacations were spent in the outdoors, camping and canoeing with family and the youth in the church. He truly enjoyed the beautiful areas in the Northwest in his travels and free time.

Dad is a blessing to each one of his family and friends. His wry sense of humor, his compassion, his deep engagement in each of our lives, and his overall example will be missed. No one showed more love for his wife and family than Dad. We were blessed to have Dad as our father, example, shoulder to cry on,

and a rock in the stream of life. He has touched every one of our lives in a unique and special way. So much of what is good about our family comes from Dad and Mom. What greater legacy can there be?

We look forward to that big family hug when we see Dad again. Seeing our complete family together again, with a smiling Dad celebrating what he loves, is a blessing we all anticipate. It has been a joyful and eventful 82 years, Dad, and we were privileged to experience as much as we did. Until we meet again…… we love you!

In lieu of flowers, consider making a positive impact in the life of someone you know. Spend a few hours with a loved one, call a long lost friend, do some anonymous service, donate to a charity, go enjoy nature, and make the world a happier place.

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 4, 11am, at the LDS church building on Camano Island, located at 795 Ell Road Camano Island, WA 98282

There will be a live stream of the service at https://youtu.be/a4z-9eAjcnY