Archie “Mike” Kline Jr. peacefully passed away on June 11, 2023, at the age of ninety-one, in his hometown of Modesto, CA. He was born on May 1, 1932, to Archie and Flora Kline.
Mike was a hardworking man with a dry sense of humor, known for his love of animals and dedication to his community. He graduated from Modesto High School in 1950 and studied at Modesto Junior College. He served as the California president of the Future Farmers of America and continued farming and ranching for the rest of his life. In between his studies, he served his country in the United States Air Force. He graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 1960 and embarked upon a lengthy career helping animals and families in the area.
Mike opened College Veterinary Hospital in 1965 where he practiced for many years. In 2001, he opened his dream project, Village Oak Veterinary Hospital where veterinarians could refer patients for specialized care. Not one to be bored, he also owned and managed two veterinary hospitals in Manteca. He very much loved and appreciated his staff over the years. He was also a proud (and punished) two-time past president of the Modesto Gateway Rotary Club and generously supported many other community organizations throughout his life.
When he wasn’t working, Mike enjoyed physical activities and hobbies, such as remodeling houses, building commercial buildings, investing in properties, traveling the world, and was very dedicated to weed removal wherever the weeds appeared. He was a true entrepreneur at heart.
Mike moved to Gardnerville, Nevada in 2021 where he made friends and continued to expand upon his hobbies. He loved the Carson Valley and treasured the newfound friendships he had developed.
Mike is survived by his children, Karen Kline, David Kline (Linda), Cyndi Kline, and Brian Kline (Ann). Grandchildren Kristine (Jay) Berryhill, Lindsay (Carlos) Mora, Megan (Chris) Ertmoed, Michelle (Carlos) Palafox, Spencer Guzzi, Katie Kline, Eric (Tatiana) Kline, Jer Kline, Jessica (Gary) Silva along with eighteen great grandchildren. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, son Dean Kline, and grandson John Michael Kline.
Mike will be remembered by his family and friends for his hard work, dedication, sense of humor, and love for animals. May he rest in peace.
Services will be held at Salas Brothers Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, June 20th at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be considered to Comprehensive Continuum of Services Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization in Turlock Ca. at (209) 632-2406 or Community Hospice Foundation at 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto, CA 95356.