Tod William Klehr

Thankful for his life and continuing in his memory are his beloved wife of 33 years, Mary Klehr; sons Jeremy Klehr, Kyle Klehr, Jake Klehr, Josh Klehr and his wife Adrianna; grandchildren Elliot, Elisabeth, Ethan, Peter, Rylan and Teo; siblings Robert & Sue, Al & Chris, Christie & Frank, Pete & Barb, and Mike & Kathy.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his sister Laura.

Tod spent all of his working life in construction and enjoyed passing along his many skills to all of his sons. He really loved working and was still scheduling jobs right up until his passing. His greatest joy in his job was the relationships he built with his numerous customers, many of whom he considered his friends.

Music was a major component of his life. He grew up in a musical family and played in many bands with his brothers, even going on a USO tour and playing rock music for our troops around the world. As a singer, songwriter, and keyboardist, his love of music was ever present in his daily life. He sang all throughout the day, always filling his home with joy.

It was as a worship leader in his church in California that he really felt his greatest musical calling. He wrote many, many songs that showed his great love for the Lord, which only grew deeper and more meaningful with the passage of time. He shared his combination of love for Jesus, the Bible, and music with a variety of Celebrate Recovery groups in Southern California. Leading people to the Lord through his music and helping them through recovery was one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.

He was living his best life in North Carolina. He loved the town, our home, and the people so much, and always mentioned how blessed he felt to be living and working in such a beautiful place filled with nature, animals, great neighbors, new amazing friends, and a slower pace of life.

His family was absolutely everything to him. He and his wife enjoyed over three decades together and shared an abiding love that grew deeper every day. Their devotion to each other and complete commitment and respect were what made their union one that even transcended the term “soulmate.” It was a pure and extraordinary marriage of two people who were just plain crazy about each other. Raising their boys together and watching them grow into incredibly loving, kind and good men filled them both with unparalleled pride. He loved all of his boys profoundly and was so proud of each of them. He just adored being a Dad. His greatest joys were spending time with them, whether it was working side by side, playing sports and games, or laughing on the phone and sharing funny memories. His grandchildren and siblings were also so important to him and he loved each of them dearly.

He will always be remembered fondly for being goofy, making up silly songs and voices, acting crazy and just being joyful and full of life. He will be greatly missed and forever loved by all who knew him.

“His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” ~ Matthew 25:21 (NIV)

Although a service is not planned at this time, you can click on “Get Reminders” to get updates.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to Cotten Funeral Home for the Klehr Family Legacy Fund. Please contact Cotten Funeral Home at 252-637-3181 for donation details.

Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Tod William Klehr.