Philip J Klaas

Philip J. Klaas, born 16 November 1928, peacefully entered heaven on 04 November 2021. He is proceeded in death by his wife Therese, and survived by his 7 children; Vincent, Virginia aka Ginny, John (Ana), Stephen, Kenneth (Evelyn), Mary (Robert) and Gerald (Eva). He is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Christopher, Desiree, John A., Kimberly, Matthew, and Daniel. He was grandfather and mentor to many, including; Devin, Mandy, and Marisa. Dr. Klaas was raised on High Ridge Farm in Hazel Green, Wisconsin and graduated from Loras College and the University of Notre Dame. He was a Second Lieutenant in the US Navy, when he met his future wife Therese Mary Blais Winters. Upon discharge from the Navy, he began his chemistry career at ESSO Research in New Jersey. Hearing the call from the Kennedy Administration to put a man on the moon, and bring him back again, he embarked on a cross country venture to California to join the great Aerojet General Corporation team in 1963. He served as Manager of Quality Control and testing of raw chemicals, and was Managing Director of the QC Laboratories until his retirement in 1991. Philip had an outstanding technical mind, and was a teacher and confidant to many. His stoic demeanor, paired with instinctive common sense and education made him a natural leader. At home, he was a loving, gentle, humble and caring father who enjoyed making pancakes on Saturday mornings. In retirement he discovered how much he absolutely loved the powerful beauty of the sea, and purchased a second home in Lincoln City, Oregon. For over 20 years he enjoyed his beach hikes, and the delightful sandpipers in Lincoln City, and walks to the American River Parkway while at his home in Fair Oaks, California. His family will miss his expert guidance, quiet humor, unwavering love of family, and gentle smile.He will be in our hearts forever. The rosary will be prayed November 11, 7:00 PM, and a funeral mass will be celebrated on November 12, 1:00 PM at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, 5057 Cottage Way, Carmichael CA 95608; Reception to follow.Private graveside service will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery on November 16th.