Fred Kletke (1918-2012)

Today we said goodbye to a good friend of the MSU Surplus Store & Recycling Center--or, as it was orginially known to him "MSU Salvage." Fred Kletke, born April 7, 1918 in Lansing MI, died December 6, 2012.

Fred was, in large part, responsible for starting Surplus operations at Michigan State University when he would collect  tires and metal for the war efforts during WWII. He was known for always doing what he would call "what’s best for Michigan State." Still, to this day, that is what is instilled in our training. Even after he was unable to drive, he would make the long trek on his motorized scooter chair to visit us.

He was a true Spartan and a true testament to living a good life. He would always tell us that he had "been so blessed." From his many accomplishments, both at Michigan State University and in his everyday life, we can agree. Yes Fred, you have been blessed, and you will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Click here to watch an interview with Fred we taped last winter.

Written by James Ives