John “Jack” R. Klimek, 73, Green Bay, died early Wednesday morning, January 3, 2024, at a local hospital. He was born April 19, 1950, in Green Bay to the late Albert and Mildred (Crabb) Klimek.
Jack was a victim of Cerebral Palsy at birth and attended the first trainable classes offered in Green Bay and Ozaukee County. He was employed at the Portals in Grafton and the ASPIRO Center in Green Bay. He always looked forward to family events and celebrations. Jack survived his affliction longer than any doctors ever predicted. Jack’s mother Mildred and local television personality, Captain Hal, along with Jack, initiated the first CP Telethon in Green Bay. Jack appeared in the first program as the only person with CP.
He is survived by two brothers, Jerry and Theresa Klimek, Hobart and Jim and Lynne Klimek, Saukville; sister, Judy Kniess, Newald, Wisconsin; nieces and nephews: Al (Ellen) Klimek; Greg (Jean) Klimek; Dale (Cindy) Klimek; Gary (Linda) Klimek; Jim (Gail) Van Den Avond; Tim (Mary) Van Den Avond; Todd (Donna) Van Den Avond; Kevin (Jen) Klimek; Deanna (Brian) Karrels and Debra (Mike) Kelling.
He was preceded in death by two brothers-in-law, Tom Van Den Avond and Ron Kniess; his parents and grandparents.
Friends may call at the Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason St. from 10:00 am until 12:00 noon on Monday, January 8. Funeral service 12:00 noon, Monday at the funeral home. Burial in the Allouez Catholic Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the Klimek family at www.prokowall.com. In lieu of floral expressions a memorial fund has been established in his name