Jeffrey Ray Kline

Jeffrey Ray Kline, 65, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born July 21, 1961, in Goshen, Indiana, to Larry D. and Barbara (Hoffman) Kline.

Jeff was united in marriage to Michelle Luebke on April 4, 1987, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Elkhart. Together they shared nearly 40 years of marriage and raised three children, who were the pride and joy of his life.

Jeff was a 1979 graduate of Goshen High School and worked as a facilities director at Tire Rack Corporate Headquarters in South Bend. He was a man who enjoyed being involved in his community and giving his time to the things and people he cared about. He served as a past president of the Elkhart Memorial High School Booster Club and was an active band parent. He also spent many years coaching youth sports, including Elkhart Rocket Football League, Cleveland Little League, and Osolo Basketball League. In his younger years, Jeff enjoyed playing softball at Shanklin Park, bowling in the Maple City Bowling Leagues and playing football at Goshen High School.

A devoted sports fan, Jeff was especially passionate about the Indianapolis Colts and Ohio State Buckeyes. He was a proud Colts fan and once held season tickets. He also enjoyed cheering from the sidelines and working behind the scenes at Elkhart Memorial football games.

Jeff had many interests and memberships throughout his life, including the Elkhart Conservation Club, Black Knife Club, and Michiana HOG Chapter, where he served as a past president. He was also a member of the Bristol American Legion as well as a past member of the Shavehead Lake Association and a Cub Scouts leader with Troop 747.

Perhaps what Jeff cherished most was the time spent with the people he loved. He absolutely adored his wife and his three children and treasured the friendships he made throughout his life. He enjoyed being on the water, traveling with his family, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with his beloved dogs, Harley and Roxy. His family will remember him not only for the many things he did for others, but for the love, friendship, and memories he gave so freely. One of Jeff’s favorite things was making jokes with people. He enjoyed using his “alias” name, Jake from State Farm, for any introduction. No matter where Jeff was, he would spark up a conversation with anyone and everyone.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Michelle Kline; his three children, Matthew (Andrea) Kline of Rhinelander, Wisconsin, Nathan Kline of Goshen and Taylor (Sam Miller) Kline of Elkhart; and his sisters, Cindy (Michael) Hrynewycz of Goshen and Reesia (Craig) VanBuren of Goshen. He is also survived by his aunt Shirley Yoder of Indianapolis, nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Including his parents Jeff was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Reese and Wilma Hoffman.

Jeff's life was filled with family, friendship, laughter, community, and countless memories. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Friends may visit from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, 1911 S. Main St., Goshen. Visitation will also be on Friday, September 25 from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by a 10:00 a.m. funeral service at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. Pastor Jessica King will officiate. Burial will follow at Violett Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to the Elkhart County Humane Society; https://elkharthumanesociety.org/ or Catsnip Etc, P.O. Box 1061, Goshen, IN 46527.