Richard Kent Klutz

Richard Kent Klutz passed on September 9th at age 78. He was born on July 31, 1946, in Sacramento, California to Anona Marie Klutz [Cola] and Kentigern Augustin Klutz. Rich was married to the love of his life, Brenda [Compton] Klutz and they were blessed with a son, Patrick.

Rich was the youngest of three children, including two beloved older sisters Marianne [Don] Linggi, and Patricia [Jim] Griffiths. He was Uncle Rich to his wonderful nephews, nieces and grandnephews and grandnieces. Rich was close to Brenda’s brothers: Rob [Becky], Doug [Nancy] and Scott. His in-laws, Bob and Bonnie Compton, thought the world of Rich.

Rich attended St. Francis Elementary School where his mother was the school bookkeeper and nurse, Bishop Armstrong - Christian Brothers High School, and graduated from St. Mary’s College in Moraga. Rich also completed studies for master’s degrees in business administration and public administration.

He played rugby for St. Mary’s College and continued his love of rugby through traveling with the St. Mary’s rugby team as they toured around the world. Rich also played for the Sacramento Old Boys [SOB] rugby team. It was after an Old Boys rugby game that he met Brenda on a blind date, introduced by mutual friends, and the rest is history.

Rich was drafted during the Vietnam War and spent time at Camp Eagle in Vietnam. There he served as a supply sergeant, and subsequently at the Presidio to finish his service.

Rich had a successful career in Information Technology, serving in many capacities, including as Project Program Manager, and Deputy Director responsible for multi-million dollar projects and programs. After retirement, he was sought out to work for a large hospital system, utility company, a university and various state departments.

With the help of family, Rich renovated a two-story house in Westwood, California that was originally built in 1912 near Lake Almanor. Rich spent many a holiday and getaways to the mountains, and found his happy place there.

Rich loved working in the backyard and turned a raw patch of ground into a place that was relaxing and lovely. He was always thinking of new projects and enjoyed working with his hands.

Rich worked with his brother-in-law, Jim, on building a candy apple red dune buggy. Later in life, Rich became enamored with old military vehicles, including WW II jeeps, Korean War power wagons, and was in the process of completely restoring an old Plymouth coupe.

Rich was a proud Poppa to Julianne, Jackson and Aubree and deeply loved his grandbabies. His favorite moments were spent finding lizards, swinging in the backyard, spending time with family and tolerating being dressed up with scarves, hats and jewelry.

His sometimes crusty exterior hid a soft and kind heart – those he loved always knew they could depend on Rich. Rich was always willing and able to help others. Rich was not fond of crowds or large gatherings. When Rich first met someone, he could give the impression of being an introvert, but once the relationship blossomed – boy, did he have the stories!

No services will be provided at Rich’s request. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: the Sacramento Food Bank, Meals on Wheels [ACC Senior Services], Maryhouse, Loaves and Fishes in his memory, or a charity of your choosing.

You Left this World, but not our Hearts