Edward H. Klingberg

Edward Hugh Klingberg, a man defined by his faith, integrity, and remarkable character, passed away after a long struggle with Alzheimer's Disease. Ed’s discipline, quick wit, and innate ability to connect with anyone were his hallmarks. As his beloved wife, Renee, often said, "He could fit in anywhere and talk to anyone." Ed had a rare gift for putting people at ease with a genuine compliment, a word of thanks, or a perfectly timed joke. He was a man of extraordinary loyalty, stability, and unwavering honesty. He was a member of St. Anne's Parish and Church on The Rock. A devoted family man Ed and Renee (née Long Grove) were married in 1984 at Long Grove Community Church, beginning a 41-year journey together. They raised their three children, Shauna, Brittany, and Jared, in a historic home in Barrington, IL. Ed was affectionately called "Pop Pop" by Shauna’s five children: Gianna, Armani, Rocco, Ivy, and Elaina. Brittany is expecting her first child in Texas. His son, Jared, served as his devoted caregiver during the final years of his illness.

Ed was a lifelong animal lover who opened his heart and home to many rescues, most recently Miniature Pinschers. His closest companion, Krissy, passed away just two days after Ed, seemingly of a broken heart. The family finds comfort knowing they are together now.

 Other beloved rescues included Fanny, Scarlett, Daisy, Buster, Zoe, Stevie, and Tom. A Legacy of Hard Work and Service Ed was known to his siblings—Mary, Kathy, Karen, Casey, and Dan—as a provider and protector, always ensuring they had what they needed. His life was defined by hard work, starting as a young paperboy and continuing through his adult life, often juggling two or three jobs. He taught grade school, remodeled homes, and built swimming pools. He was immensely generous with others, yet asked for very little in return. A Storied Athletic Career A proud member of the St. Viator High School Class of 1971 in Arlington Heights, IL, Ed excelled in multiple sports. He was All-Area Captain of the wrestling team alongside his friend Mike O’Malley. In football, he was named ESCC All-Conference, All-Area, All-State, and was voted Football MVP in his senior year by his teammates and coaches. He also achieved a high level of success in track and field, reaching the State Finals. Ed made St. Viator history as the first athlete to ever receive 12 varsity letters. Ed continued his football career on a scholarship at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb where he graduated with a degree in Elementary and Special Education.

The beloved educator following college, Ed immediately began teaching at Abraham Lincoln School in Glen Ellyn, IL, a position he held with passion for 45 years. He earned his Master’s degree in 1985 and accumulated 45 additional hours of continuing education, evolving into a truly creative and dynamic teacher who left a lasting impression on students and peers. Ed's classroom was legendary for its antics, demonstrating his boundless creativity and high-interest approach to learning. He and co-teacher Brian Pindar were known for dancing on desks, bringing a live fox (Benny) into the classroom, hosting a daily visiting squirrel for apple cores, launching rockets, and creating wildflower gardens. These legendary adventures earned them the reputation of being an exceptional teaching duo. Ed was also the unofficial school "Mr. Fix It," often called over the intercom to help staff and students with a flat tire or a car that needed a jump. He also created “High Interest Day” which was a favorite among students. His excellence was widely recognized. 

Ed was named in Who’s Who Among American Teachers and was honored by Glen Ellyn as an Outstanding Educator and was named Who’s Who Among American Teachers as teacher who “Made a Difference” in the lives of his students. Final Farewell Ed’s life marks a generous, disciplined, and faith-filled family man who dedicated himself to improving the lives of others. He will be forever remembered and held dear by those he loved and will live on in the minds and character of the thousands of students he poured into. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to one of the following charities in Ed's honor:• In honor of Ed & Krissy: Internet Miniature Pinscher Service -www.minpinrescue.org• Alzheimer’s Association: www.alz.org