Alan "Al" E. Kleinschmidt

Alan “Al” Eugene Kleinschmidt (fondly know as Beep to his granddaughters), born July 9^th, 1954, in Appleton WI to Eugene & Ardice (nee Reitz) Kleinschmidt was called home to his Heavenly Father on Saturday March 25^th, 2023, at the age of 68.

Al was raised in Appleton WI, attending Appleton West High School where he participated in Choir, Theater, Debate and Men’s Volleyball, graduating in 1972. Followed by the UW Fox Valley (formerly the Fox Valley Extension) where he discovered a passion for Astronomy and Soccer that he pursued throughout his life and graduated with his BA from UW Oshkosh.

 Al married Ruby Gambsky in 1975, they were blessed with 2 children, Jenni and Jeff, but later divorced.

Al became a founding member of the Appleton Soccer Club and was a well-known coach throughout the greater Fox Valley area for around 20 years. In addition to coaching with the club, Al coached teams from Appleton Xavier & Appleton West, where he had the opportunity to coach his younger brother Mike. Al coached the Appleton Magic to many tournament championships in the early 90’s, followed by coaching Jeff’s teams through the mid 1990’s. Soccer created a bond between father and son that has led to many discussions about their favorite teams, players, and giving Jeff advice as he advanced in coaching.

Al married the love of his life Cynthia “Cindy” Kleinschmidt (nee Piehl) on August 25^th, 1984, moved to Sturtevant WI where he was blessed once again with his youngest son, Jon. Later returning to Appleton WI with his family. Al and Cindy celebrated 37 years of love and devotion together with a passion that was seen by everyone, most especially his children.

Al was always a Dad First for his kids, no matter their age, he was willing to drop anything to assist them and truly loved to just spend time with them. Whether it was on a trip, at a game, out grocery shopping, or just sitting at home chatting well into the wee hours of the morning, the smile of pride in his kids was always there.

Al enjoyed nights out stargazing, especially with his children and later grandchildren, showing them the constellations and relating the stories of how each was named, from multiple ancient cultures. Jon and Al spent many a night out well past bedtime with their telescope gazing into the heavens. He enjoyed fishing with his kids and grandkids, always baiting their hook for them if they asked, and would hand them his pole to reel one in. Al attended any events he was able to, always cheering & applauding, his pride in his granddaughters accomplishments always evident, no matter how great or small, he was always proud of them.

Al was preceded in death by his parents Eugene & Ardice, his greatest love and soulmate Cindy, and her parents Norman & Carol Piehl.

Al is lovingly survived by his eldest daughter Jennifer “Jenni” Hiroskey (Nic) with granddaughter Vicki. As well as 2 sons, the Tallest, Jeffery “Jeff” Kleinschmidt (April) with granddaughters Dannielle & Bella, and the Smartest Jonathan (Jon) Kleinschmidt. Older Sisters Caryl (Dale) Brinkman, Barb (John) Cook, and Nancy Mezyk, and younger brother Mike (Lori) Kleinschmidt as well as many nieces, nephews and close friends.

A funeral service for Al will take place on Thursday April 13^th, 2023, at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 Superior St., Appleton WI 54911. The visitation will be 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm followed by a brief service and eulogy. The service may also be viewed by visiting the Wichmann site on the day of service. All are welcome to attend, pay their respects to Al, and celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established to plant a tree in memory of Al.