William A. Kluth, 89: Navy Veteran of World War II

William A. Kluth, 89, of Newport, died Saturday, Aug. 10, 2013, at Newport Hospital.

He was married to Anne (Blain) Kluth for 66 years.

Born in Newport on March 28, 1924, he was the son of the late Frank and Annie (Leary) Kluth. He was a graduate of St. Mary's School and De La Salle Academy, class of 1942.

Bill proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II aboard the USS Laramie and the USS South Dakota. Upon retuning, he began his 40-year career as an electrician at the former Newport Electric Corporation. After retiring, he spent 14 years as a security guard for the Preservation Society of Newport County. Bill loved sports and excelled in baseball, basketball and tennis, winning several awards and trophies as both a competitor and a coach. Affectionately known as “Boppy,” he was revered for his kind heart, gentle spirit and his wonderful sense of humor. Boppy’s greatest passion was his family and he devoted his life to them. He never missed a game, a race or a meet as his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren participated in various athletic events. Everyone who knew Boppy will remember him as a fun-loving man with a smile and a joke for everyone.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Sharon Dwyer (Bill), and his son William F. Kluth (Isabel), all of Middletown, RI; his grandchildren, William Dwyer III (Amy) of New York City, Lacy Dwyer of Washington, DC, Farrell Donovan (Daniel) of Portsmouth, RI, Joel Kluth of Portsmouth, RI, and Kyle Kluth of Newport, RI; his great grandchildren Colin Davis, Pressley Kluth and Camryn Donovan. Mr. Kluth’s brothers Frank and John Kluth predeceased him as well as his great granddaughter Caelan Dwyer.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport.

His funeral will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2013, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 5 Mann Ave., Newport.

Burial will follow at St. Columba Cemetery, 465 Brown’s Lane, Middletown, RI.

Memorial donations in his memory can be made to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, National Council of the United States, 58 Progress Parkway, Maryland Heights, MO 63046-3706. Please write "In Memory of William A. Kluth" in the memo field of your check. Thank you.