James Edward Kleinrichert, 85, of Fort Lauderdale FL and formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away April 2, 2025 after an extended illness. Jim was born in Fort Wayne on August 30, 1939, the fifth of (the late) Paul and Marie Kleinrichert's 10 children. He married MaryAnn Kleinrichert on February 16, 1963; she survives, along with their children, Denise (John) Gordon, Danielle (Guillermo Villar) Kleinrichert and Robert Kleinrichert; siblings, Jerry, Rose, Ken and Cecelia Kleinrichert, and Angie Grove; grandchildren, June and Michael Gordon; numerous nieces & nephews and many good friends.

In addition to his parents, Jim was also preceded in death by siblings; Theresa Granahan, Paula Stephanis, Don and Joe Kleinrichert, and his son, James, Jr. who died at age 15 after a long battle with leukemia. Jim and MaryAnn assisted in raising millions of dollars over the years, to support pediatric cancer care and research.

Jim and family found their calling running restaurants and nightclubs, including the Cat's Meow in Fort Wayne. He relocated to Florida in 1977, establishing several restaurants and clubs in South Florida.

The Funeral Mass for Jim was celebrated in Florida, and he was returned home to Fort Wayne for private burial in Catholic Cemetery on August 5, 2025. Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave. assisted with the local arrangements. The family's preferred memorial is St. Malachy Catholic Church, online at www.stmalachy.church or by mail to 6200 N. University Dr, Tamarac FL 33321. You may read Jim's full obituary or offer condolences to his family, by visiting www.landmarkfuneralhome.com.