Gary Gene Klinetobe, age 76, passed away on January 19, 2026, just one month shy of his 77th birthday. He was born on February 11, 1949 in Scotia and was raised in Rio Dell.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Agnes (McClennen) Klinetobe, born in Rapid City, South Dakota, and his father, Gale Klinetobe, born in Nebraska, and his youngest son, Micheal Gene Klinetobe. Gary was the last of four children to pass away.

Gary is survived by his wife, Sandra Klinetobe. The two were married on February 3, 1968 and though they were separated in the mid 1990s they remained friends and were often seen together at family gatherings.

He also leaves behind his four living children — Carolyn Morton, Richard Klinetobe, Laura Klinetobe, Gary Klinetobe, ten grandchildren, three great-grandchildren — and a large extended family too numerous to name.

In the mid-1970s, Gary worked at Eel River Saw Mills in Redcrest until a back injury in the early 1980s led him to a new path. He then worked for Fortuna Parks & Recreation, where he cared for the local baseball fields. Many remember him dragging, prepping and chalking the fields.

Gary had a deep love for sports. He coached a men’s softball team sponsored by Alton Tavern, where he proudly wore the nickname “Huggie Pooh” on his jersey and was known by most as “Big Gary.” He was truly larger than life and often the life of the party.

Children adored him and often climbed on him like a tree, something that he welcomed with joy.

He loved for his kids — sons and daughters — to practice alongside him and his team, playing outfield and chasing balls. We all learned to love the game. He often joked that he wanted twelve children so he could have his own team.

Gary enjoyed shooting pool and became quite skilled over the years, traveling locally to compete in tournaments. His love of sports extended to his children, whom he proudly supported. He could be found cheering them on at football, baseball and basketball games. He also frequented the stock car raced in Petaluma and Eureka, where he watched his sons Richard and Gary race competitively, always willing to give advice he wasn’t using.

Later years, Gary worked as a security guard locally before moving to Copperopolis, where he continued working until his health declined. Even then, he remained playing pool and perfecting his game.

About five years ago, Gary moved to Susanville, where he lived briefly with his son Richard and wife Amber. He had recently moved into his own place, where he passed away suddenly and peacefully due to declined health.

Although Gary wasn’t always good about staying in touch, he always seemed to know what each of us were doing.

His presence and humor will be missed. Gary Klinetobe will be remembered for his big heart, his love of family and sports.

A celebration of life is scheduled for April 18, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Rio Dell Fire Department. All are welcome. There will be a slideshow and potluck. Please come join us and be ready to share stories and your favorite side dish. His ashes will remain in Humboldt County with his family per his wishes.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Gary Klinetobe’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.