Obituary of Richard Klim

Richard “Rich” Klim, age 81, a lifelong resident of Bethlehem Township, Asbury, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

Born on March 29, 1943, Rich was the son of the late Vivian and John Klim. He graduated from North Hunterdon High School, Class of 1961.  Rich married his soulmate, Beatrice, in 1965, and they celebrated 59 wonderful years together in June.  Together they created a beautiful home and family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Rich possessed remarkable mechanical skills, particularly in repairing trucks, large machinery, and tractors.  He began his career working as a heavy equipment operator for Poniatowski then started business as a co-owner of D&R Leasing truck company with his late brother, Donald.  In 1980, Rich embarked on his own venture, establishing R&K Garage, and in 1994 he opened a used car dealership, which he operated until his retirement.

A dedicated worker, Rich often put in long hours, frequently working seven days a week.  Even in his free time, he loved to tinker outside or in his garage, especially with fast and noisy cars and machinery.  His enthusiasm for antiques and cars continued to grow with his 1930 Willy’s Knight Sedan and his wife’s 1929 Ford Model A Sedan.

Throughout his life, Rich has held a strong passion for tractors.  His most treasured possession is a 1941 Farmall M tractor, which was originally used on his parents’ farm and was later participated in tractor pulls.  He got involved in tractor pulling early in his life and returned to it later on, eagerly keeping up with the scheduled events to attend as many as possible.  He excelled in tractor pulling, bringing home several trophies, and even competed alongside his wife, who joined him in this pursuit for many years. 

Rich was one of eight siblings.  He was predeceased by his brothers Donald, Jim and Jerry, as well as his sisters Marsha and Bob.  His surviving siblings are Jeannette and Marie.

Rich was a loving husband and father and his memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife, Beatrice and his loving children, Rachel and her husband Jonathan Roznowski and Kimberly and her husband Edward Woolf.  He will also be deeply missed by his grandsons, Zachary and Zeke.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday December 14^th, 2024 from 2pm until 4pm, a Memorial Prayer Service will be held at 4pm immediately following the visitation.  All services will be held at the Martin Funeral Home, located at 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ 08809.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in memory of Rich by clicking here.