Sunday, January 3rd, 2010 at 8:34 AM
Ronald A. Klinge, 1935-2010
My father had a debilitating stroke three and a half years ago, and it has been a struggle since.
Yet he had been doing fine, so much so that when discussing the need for kids to rush to his side yesterday morning, my Mom declared, “He’s not going to die today”.
Apparently, God had other plans.
He had been admitted to the hospital Friday night with symptoms of pneumonia. When my Mom and sister went to visit yesterday morning, he was having trouble breathing, and his blood pressure was dropping.
My Mom whispered in his ear, “We love you, I love you, and it’s OK to go”.
He took one more breath, and then passed away.
I’m going to take a few days off, and be back Friday.
Posted on Sunday, January 3rd, 2010 at 8:34 AM in About the author | 122 Comments » | 
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I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this tough time.
Erin | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:38 amGod Speed to your father. Prayers for strength to you and your family.
L. D. | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:40 amMy deepest sympathies to you and your family, Jim.
Rick the Tuna
Rick | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:46 amIt sounds like he died knowing he was well loved. I hope that knowledge helps you find peace.
Jinx | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:51 amOur thoughts are with you and your family Jim.
osidecompass | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:56 amThe loss of a parent is one of the great losses in life. Your parents instilled in you integrity, and an appreciation for hard work.
Robert | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:03 amAll parents can do is to give a child the wings to fly before they leave the nest.
They did a great job.
Jim:
My prayers are with you and your family. Your father and mother raised a great son. In a way, we all owe them for having been a source of ethical values for you and yours. You honor them both in the good work you and your firm do to provide a window of honesty in the real estate business.
Being a father of four, I can only hope one of them turns out as well as you.
Larry in Phoenix
Larry | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:19 amJim, I am sorry to hear of your father’s passing. I send my condolences to to you and your family.
Billyfeet | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:28 amI am sorry to hear your Dad passed away. Please accept my condolences to you and your family.
3clicks from da beach | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:31 amJim,
Anonymous | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:47 amI pray that you never forget the great times that you and your family spent with your dad and that I’m sure he was very proud of you. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers this week. Keep up the great work. God Bless
Sorry Jim. Hang in there.
greenlander | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:55 amI am very sorry for your loss! My condolences and sympathy to you and your grieving family!
Valentin Mandache | January 3rd, 2010 at 10:11 amValentin,
Bucharest Romania
You’re clearly a great guy, Jim, and your father had a big hand in making that happen.
Sincere condolences.
enplaned | January 3rd, 2010 at 10:14 amI’m sorry to hear that Jim.
Please take as much time as you need and don’t give any thought to this blog…
Locomotive Breath | January 3rd, 2010 at 10:23 amMy sincere condolences to you and your family, Jim. Very sorry to hear of your loss.
SD_suntaxed | January 3rd, 2010 at 10:38 amOur condolences to you and your loved ones , sorry to hear about your dad ! Hans and Zita
Hans and Zita | January 3rd, 2010 at 11:29 amAlthough I don’t know you, what I do know is that your ol’ man must have had a great hand in raising you. Prayers for his soul and God Bless.
From All the Chaconas family..
Michael Chaconas | January 3rd, 2010 at 11:32 amThoughts and prayers to the Klinge Family. Always remember that memories of your father are in your heart forever.
Dave J- OHIO | January 3rd, 2010 at 11:37 amDeepest condolences.
LM | January 3rd, 2010 at 11:43 amThere are no words to tell you how sorry I am for the loss of your Dad. It is always so sad to face the loss of a good parent. Thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Irene | January 3rd, 2010 at 12:00 pmJim–My condolences to you and your family. I’ll bet your dad was very proud of you and rightly so. Maybe you will share some of his thoughts about his son whose real estate profession took and unusual turn.
fd in to | January 3rd, 2010 at 12:01 pmMy condolences to you and your family Jim.
Don Q | January 3rd, 2010 at 12:18 pmYou and your family have our condolences and prayers.
Mrs. Davis | January 3rd, 2010 at 12:38 pmWhat everyone else said, Jim. Take care of yourself–take time to grieve–we’ll be here when you’re back.
Portland, OR
chrisanthemama | January 3rd, 2010 at 1:10 pmJim,
As several have already noted, the greatest tribute to the man your father was is the man you are today. As such, he lives on through you & yours!
Take care.
tj & the bear | January 3rd, 2010 at 1:22 pmDear Jim and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing..It is so hard to loose a parent, father or mother. I still want to pick up the phone and call my mom who has been gone for 14 years I can still see her home and smell her cooking I can still see her standing in front of the stove or making a martini..I can still see her smile and happy ways..I know you have fond memories of your dad and always will…He will always be there for you in spirt no matter where you are or what you are doing. You will feel his hand on your back when you are sad or see him sitting next to you on a long drive. He may not be here in physical form but he will be here in spirt. He is now with the angels he feels no pain, he has just great memories of you and of his family and he will take that where ever he goes..God bless you and your family
Colleen McCoy | January 3rd, 2010 at 1:30 pmBest of luck to you and your family, and my condolences. If you have some time over the next week, please post where to send flowers and/or donations in his name. Thanks!
-Erica
Erica Douglass | January 3rd, 2010 at 1:41 pmI am so sorry to hear. Our thoughts are with you and your family. Best, Tom and Marika.
Tom | January 3rd, 2010 at 1:44 pmOur condolences Jim. Art and Robin
Art Munson | January 3rd, 2010 at 1:52 pmIt is funny how watching your videos, you become so personal to oneself. Any pain you feel is shared with your circle of people.
Larry Profeta | January 3rd, 2010 at 2:11 pmGod bless.
Larry
Rancho Mirage, Ca.
Condolences to you and your family.
ladydentist | January 3rd, 2010 at 2:17 pmWe’ll keep your family in our prayers.
Heart-felt thoughts and prayers Jim.
God Bless.
David Overfield | January 3rd, 2010 at 2:43 pmjim,
down and out in san diego | January 3rd, 2010 at 2:58 pmVery sorry to hear about your father.I’m sure he was as great of man as your are.Deepest sympathies.
My heart goes out to you and your family Jim. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.
pemeliza | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:04 pmJim, my condolences to you and your family. You are a good man and must have had a great role model in your father.
pigpen | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:26 pmCheers,
Pigpen
my condolences to you and your family Jim.. it is a very big loss…
james | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:31 pmI am saddened to hear of your loss. I know how hard it is to lose a father. My thoughts are with you and your family.
UCGal | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:33 pmSorry to hear about your father’s passing, Jim. He will continue to live on in your and your childrens’ lives. God bless you and your family as you grieve this great loss.
ca renter | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:40 pmSo sorry for your loss; may the memories of good times stay in your heart forever.
Sigh... | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:46 pmYou and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike S | January 3rd, 2010 at 4:55 pmDear Klinge Family,
Very sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. He was one of the good ones for sure.
If you need anything, we are here for you.
Joe, Anna & family
LakerJoe | January 3rd, 2010 at 5:35 pmSorry to hear about your father. My condolence to your family during this difficult period.
anon | January 3rd, 2010 at 5:35 pmSorry for your loss Jim. It sounds like your dad lived a life to be proud of.
Ryan | January 3rd, 2010 at 5:42 pmI am very sorry for you and your family Jim.
Gavin | January 3rd, 2010 at 6:05 pmJim,
Andrew and Taneh | January 3rd, 2010 at 6:11 pmOur deepest sympathy comes to your and your family today. This must be a difficult time for you and our prayers are with you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sideline Housing Market Observer | January 3rd, 2010 at 6:14 pmMy deepest sympathy goes to you, and I hope you and your family find peace and comfort in this most difficult time.
Blissful Ignoramus | January 3rd, 2010 at 6:15 pmHe must have been a heck of a guy judging by the man his son became.
pat b | January 3rd, 2010 at 6:49 pmWhether we like it or not we all turn into our parents on some level.
I Gotta think that your dad was the kinda guy that was a straight shooter that knew when to call a turd……..a turd.
God how I wish there were more people like this around…..Especially in this PC world we are all trapped on.
Murf2222
Mike Murphy | January 3rd, 2010 at 7:12 pmSorry for your loss.
Adam | January 3rd, 2010 at 7:24 pmJim, condolences to you and yours.
rodeman | January 3rd, 2010 at 7:54 pmMy condolences to you and your family. Take care.
Charlene | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:17 pmJim, my condolences to you and your family for the loss. Good to know he was with all of his loved ones.
ocrenter | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:34 pmJim, my condolences to you and your family. God watch over you during this time of sadness.
Tom | January 3rd, 2010 at 8:36 pmJim,
I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nathan | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:27 pmSorry, Jim. Godspeed, Ronald.
common-sense | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:36 pmI feel for you Jim. I hope you and your family can find peace.
mybleachhouse | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:52 pmSo sorry to hear about your loss Jim. Our most sincere condolences to you and your family.
Greekfire | January 3rd, 2010 at 9:59 pmSo sorry for you loss, Jim. I’m glad your taking the break for yourself and your family. I have the feeling that your dad felt very loved by you.
sdcellar | January 3rd, 2010 at 10:47 pmSorryfopr yourlos
KJM | January 3rd, 2010 at 10:57 pmSo very sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.
Peter | January 3rd, 2010 at 11:23 pmsorry for your loss Jim.
siete8 | January 3rd, 2010 at 11:24 pmTo live, one must die. Its hard, but it happens to all. I’m glad your father lived a full complete life, may he rest in peace…
Homer Simpson | January 4th, 2010 at 2:48 amWhat they said…
NateTG | January 4th, 2010 at 6:07 amMy deepest condolences on your loss.
François Caron | January 4th, 2010 at 6:19 amHe had some beautiful moments in those last three years. Thank you for sharing some of them with us (your sister’s wedding). We all wish you and your family well. Take your time as seems best to you. But hopefully we can provide some laughs and distractions when you return.
(cara, speaking for the silent majority, because hey, they don’t speak for themselves… )
cara | January 4th, 2010 at 6:32 amVery sorry to hear about your loss, Jim. I’m sure he was very proud of you. Mark E.
Mark E. | January 4th, 2010 at 6:34 amJim,
David | January 4th, 2010 at 6:49 amVery sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
David S.
I’ve been MIA from bubbleinfo for the last couple weeks but felt this extraordinary pull to come over this morning. And now I read your sad message about your dad passing.
I want you to know what a profound effect you have had on my life, Jim, in what I lovingly call: Real Estate Land. I have tears streaming down my face upon hearing your news–so excuse any typos. And yes, I realize this is a long message.
How wonderful that your mom was able to say those last few words to your dad. I’ve heard that hearing is the last thing “to go”, so your dad heard that all-important message of love. There’s really nothing more important in this life, is there?
Both my parents had strokes and lived for many years after. They both showed me the value of perseverance and courage, and that life is still worth living–even when you feel like “all four tires went flat at once”. Some of my sweetest memories with my parents were after they had strokes.
When you return in a few days, Jim, we’ll all be here to support you. Will you grant us the honor of sharing what your dad taught you? You must have some wonderful stories.
I also went through a 5-year cancer battle with my beloved husband who passed away in late 2004, at the age of 47.
The following quote is what helped me to sleep at night and wake up in the morning to be there for our two kids. I said it every night as I got into a now, too-big king-size bed. I pray that it may help you in some small way, Jim.
“Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down and let us know they are happy.”
Take heart, Jim–like me–you now have your own personal angel in heaven…
Susie | January 4th, 2010 at 6:49 amJim,
We extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Atlanta, Ga.
Consultant | January 4th, 2010 at 7:18 amJim,
Sorry for you loss…….
3 Kings | January 4th, 2010 at 7:35 amJim-How short life really is–We cherish the memories as that is all we can take with us. Thoughts and Prayers. James.
Local Boy | January 4th, 2010 at 7:54 amJim,
Kent | January 4th, 2010 at 8:05 amHeartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Sorry for the loss
sdnerd | January 4th, 2010 at 8:51 amI’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Peace to you and your family.
Linda | January 4th, 2010 at 9:11 amMy condolences for your loss.
Art Eclectic | January 4th, 2010 at 9:13 amMy deepest sympathies to you and your family, Jim.
Kris in OC | January 4th, 2010 at 9:27 amJim, my condolences to you and your family as well.
Kingside | January 4th, 2010 at 9:42 amHey Jim,
My deepest condolences for your loss.
ChrisG | January 4th, 2010 at 10:17 amJim
Very sorry for your loss,
our condolences to you and your family.
vegas andre | January 4th, 2010 at 10:27 amJim:
Bob | January 4th, 2010 at 10:33 amTake good care of your mom. Sounds like your dad lived a very good life. He obviously raised a fine son and was loved well.
Best,
Bob
Jim, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May you find support, love, and peace around you during this time. I will say a prayer.
Best,
BAM
BAM | January 4th, 2010 at 10:48 amDear Jim,
Words seem inadequate to express our sympathy. Peace and blessings to your dear departed father. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
househippie | January 4th, 2010 at 10:52 amBill (a.k.a. househippie) and Karen
Wow.. that statement got me. Best wishes and condolences for your Mother, you and your family.
ucodegen | January 4th, 2010 at 1:23 pmJim,
Our condolences to you and your family. We hope that you will find peace at this time. Embrace the many happy memories that span your lifetime together! You’re in our prayers. The Cheesemans
Jim Cheeseman | January 4th, 2010 at 3:48 pmFrom the great number of offerings of support, it is obvious you make an impact in a lot of lives. Your Dad must have been a great teacher. May peace be with you for you are loved and appreciated.
Justabroker | January 4th, 2010 at 4:53 pmJim, Sad to hear of your loss. May you find peace around you and your family
newcomer | January 4th, 2010 at 9:11 pmJim,
I want to add my condolences. I know from your many posts about your father (the recent wedding comes to mind) that you have great love and respect for him. You always will. That meant everything to him.
Smithers
Smithers | January 4th, 2010 at 10:00 pmSo sorry to hear of the passing of your father.
My sympathies to you and your family in the days to come.
Bob
bobfather99 | January 4th, 2010 at 10:05 pmVery sorry for your loss. Don’t rush back to the blog, take us much time as you need…it’ll still be here when you get back.
Noz | January 4th, 2010 at 10:46 pmMy deepest sympathies on your Dad’s passing. May you always feel his spirit in your heart. Take as much time as you can Your family needs you now more than a bunch of strangers on the internet do. Again, deepest sympathies.
Carolyn Lawrence | January 4th, 2010 at 10:53 pmMy thoughts are with you and your family, I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Rebecca | January 5th, 2010 at 1:47 amSorry to hear of your loss.
Geotpf | January 5th, 2010 at 6:55 amJim, sorry to hear your father passed away. My condolences to you and your family.
Myriad | January 5th, 2010 at 9:07 amSorry to hear your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
pepsi | January 5th, 2010 at 9:46 amSo sorry for your loss.
AlinIC
Anonymous | January 5th, 2010 at 9:53 amJim, so sorry to hear about your loss. I hope you and your family can find some solace in remembering the great things about him. Ben
Ben Atkinson | January 5th, 2010 at 9:56 amI’m very sorry for your loss.
AC | January 5th, 2010 at 10:51 amHi Jim,
so sorry to hear about your loss. Such is the cycle of life that every end is also a new beginning. I wish your family and mum and you the strength to overcome this heartbreak.
For certain is death for the born
And certain is birth for the dead;
Therefore over the inevitable
Thou shouldst not grieve.
Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2
Anonymous | January 5th, 2010 at 11:58 amMy thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Inland Empire | January 5th, 2010 at 12:15 pmMatthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
I am sorry Jim.
Keith Lutz | January 5th, 2010 at 12:40 pmSuch a sad event. Condolences to you, your family, and all who knew him.
Spotty
Spotty | January 5th, 2010 at 12:50 pmWe are so sorry to hear of your loss Jim.
CRE Consult | January 5th, 2010 at 5:43 pmI am so sorry to hear of your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Potemkin Villager | January 5th, 2010 at 8:50 pmI am so sorry to hear the news. I lost my father and I know how difficult it is. I wish you and your family strength to overcome this difficult time.
kia | January 6th, 2010 at 12:03 amI am very sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Punky | January 6th, 2010 at 9:11 amSo sorry to read your post. This is a difficult time for all the family. Hope your mom is being taken care of, I’m sure you’re seeing to that. Take care.
LR | January 6th, 2010 at 10:38 amJtR, my sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your Dad. The memories will always be there for you to cherish.
Desert Realtor | January 6th, 2010 at 1:14 pmTake Care of Mom and smile when you can in remembrance of Pops.
doughboy | January 6th, 2010 at 2:05 pmSorry to hear, Jim.
Your pops did a great job making his son into an honest and hard-working man.
P.S. The resemblance is uncanny… You and he look like brothers!
FirstTimePosterLongTimeLurker | January 6th, 2010 at 7:01 pmJim.
Deepest sympathy on your loss.
Russell
Russell | January 7th, 2010 at 5:05 amSorry for your loss. I’m sure you made him very proud.
raw | January 7th, 2010 at 1:30 pmJim,
I’m touched that you shared such a personal event with us – your faithful audience.
My sincerest condolences. I state that with genuine concern because of the earnest insight and humanity that you have shared with us via this site.
I hope you can seek some amount of comfort in the fact your father had a relatively long life.
Take ample time for yourself,
BSinOside | January 7th, 2010 at 8:04 pm-Ben
Jim,
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Scott and Kathi
SMC | January 7th, 2010 at 11:01 pmPlease accept my condolences.
andrewa | January 8th, 2010 at 9:04 amVery sorry to hear of your father, Jim. I just watched that video you posted on the last of the Janae houses. I think we can all get an idea of the good man that your father was by the sense of justice he helped impart to you. Keep it up.
Best,
lgs | January 8th, 2010 at 6:57 pmLarry
Jim, Sorry to hear about the loss. My dad passed away three years ago (was born in ’35 also) and I can relate – it’s a horrible loss and pain, I am still recovering. I wish your family all the best and keep up great, creative and honest work. Sulejman Hodzic
Sulejman Hodzic | January 9th, 2010 at 2:24 amJim,
So sorry to hear that your dad passed away. Best wishes to you and your family during this difficult time. Bill.
Bill Moldestad | January 9th, 2010 at 10:04 amJim, I haven’t been on your site in a week or so and just saw the blog about your dad passing. I offer my heartfelt condolences–I know it’s hard it is to lose a parent even when you know they are better off. But how very sweet that he went on an “I love you” from his wife with her there by his side. May we all be so fortunate.
PJ
PJ Cannon | January 9th, 2010 at 11:31 amDear Jim,
Carlsbad Renter | January 9th, 2010 at 7:40 pmI’m so sorry for your loss. Ten years after my father’s passing, I can assure you that more than just memories will bring you comfort over time. Your Dad is forever a part of you in more ways than you can appreciate now. Time will show you this, and your Dad will ultimately help bring you a deeper Peace.
CR
Dear Jim,
Only now read this post. May god bless you and your family in this difficult time.
Please accept my deepest condolences.
SDAndy
SDAndy | January 9th, 2010 at 11:43 pmJim –
So sorry to hear about your loss. I’m glad to see you back; I hope you are doing OK.
Eric Hancock | January 10th, 2010 at 6:20 am