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Frederick L. “Fred” Kline passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at The Laurels of Galesburg. Fred was born on October 16,1937 to Gaylord and Catherine (Klein) Kline. Fred was lucky enough to live in his childhood home in Scotts since the age of 14. He graduated from Climax-Scotts High School in 1955. He married the love of his life Patricia F. Russell on July 30,1960. Pat preceded him in death on January 15, 2001.
Fred retired at the age of 55 from The Upjohn Company after a long career in plastics. Fred’s love for the outdoors was endless. Fred enjoyed mushroom hunting and spending time at his cabin Up North. Fred lived by the motto “If you can’t hunt or fish with it, you don’t need it.” And he also told anyone that would listen or chew, you’ll do anything better if you are chewing tobacco. Fred won several awards for trapshooting. He also enjoyed spending time deer hunting Up North with his friends every year since he was a teenager. Fred and Phil White enjoyed their daily deer drives. Fred enjoyed fishing with his children, grandchildren and friends. Fred was also lucky enough to take his grandchildren out west during their spring breaks.
Fred is survived by his children Mike (Linda) Kline of Cadillac, Steve (Janet) Kline of Vicksburg, Sandy (Lance) Colton of Riverton, WY and Michelle Kline of Scotts. His grandchildren Elizabeth (Allen) Smaka, Mitch (Brandie) Kline, Nicole Hayes, Carmen (Austin) Kline, Tyler Kline, Clay Colton and Cheyanne Colton, 7 great grandsons & 4 great granddaughters, along with several nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, sister Helen VanHoeve and his In-laws Gilbert and Florine Russell.
A graveside service will be held at the Gilson Cemetery (7471 S. 38th Street, Scotts, MI 49088) at 10am on Monday, March 9, 2026 with Pastor Jim Dyke officiating. A memorial visitation to honor and celebrate his life will be held afterward starting at 11am at the Scotts Community Center (8450 36th St. S. Scotts, MI 49088). Condolences and memories may be expressed to Fred’s family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
