Michael Klesmer, 81, of Newport News, passed away on Saturday March 11, 2023. “Mike, ” as he was known to close friends and family, was born in Brooklyn, New York to his late parents, Irving and Helen Klesmer, in July of 1941. He lived the majority of his life in Newport News.
Mike was a graduate of Newport News High school, Class of 1959, and went on to attend Elon College. He worked for many years as an assistant manager in the Tire and Auto Body parts industry, earning many awards for being top salesperson.
Mike was active in his community in Newport News. He was a member of the Rodef Sholom Temple, and participated in countless sports activities.
He enjoyed any and all sporting events where he could be on the sidelines watching and cheering. He attended games, umpired softball on the Virginia Peninsula for many years, and was even the official time keeper for the Virginia Squires games when they were in Hampton. Mike was a fan of not only sports, but also the arts. He always made sure to have season tickets to local theatre and live music performances of all genres, at one of the many venues in the Hampton Roads area.
Left behind to cherish his memory are Mike’s longtime partner, Myra Waranch and their dog Duke. Duke was Mike’s best bud and companion. They rarely left one anothers’ side. Mike is survived by his brother, Harold Klesmer (Sandra) of Toronto, Canada, sister, Maureen Klesmer David (Robert) of Atlanta, Georgia, Niece Lori Klesmer Helfenbaum of Calgary, Canada, Nephew Ian Klesmer (Elise) of Toronto, Canada, and 3 great nieces and nephews.
A Graveside service will be held at the Jewish Cemetery of the Virginia Peninsula on Wednesday March 15, 2023 at 1:00 PM, lead by Rabbi Dror of Rodef Sholom Temple. Professional services are in the care of Altmeyer Funeral Home – Riverside. Chapel. The family requests that donations in Mike’s honor be made to Rodef Sholom Temple.