Brian Keith Klepko

Brian Keith Klepko, 46, of Great Falls, Montana, passed away on April 6, 2022. Born on July 3, 1975, at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, GA. Brian was the oldest of five brothers born to Harry and Elizabeth (Bittman) Klepko. He grew up living in several states, returning to Georgia to graduate from Houston High School in 1994 and attended Georgia College. Then Brian attended the University of Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee.

After moving to Memphis, Brian fell in love with the River City and forever became a Memphian at heart. He loved the Memphis scene: the streets of downtown, the music, and going to Grizzlies’ games to name a few. Brian especially loved celebrations. One celebration in particular was his birthday. He always joked that the 4th of July fireworks, which he loved, were for everyone to celebrate “his” birthday. 

As a young man, Brian established himself as a person with strong work ethics and an entrepreneurial spirit. Not only did he have a variety of jobs, he also started his own pool company in his early 20’s. However, anyone who spent time with Brian quickly discovered his passion for all things cars. Jeeps, Volkswagens, Porsches and also Harley Davidson motorcycles were among his favorites. It was no surprise that Brian found his life's work in the automobile industry. This career began first in sales, which paved the way to jobs in management. As Brian’s goals led him to succeed, his personality and drive motivated others to do so as well. 

Another aspect of Brian’s life was his passion for his family, especially his two sons, Alex and Ashton. Both achieved valedictorian of their respective senior classes and the rank of Eagle Scout. These were subjects Brian loved to discuss or possibly “brag” about to others because of his immense pride in his boys. Brian, also having achieved the rank of Eagle Scout as a youth, along with his four brothers, encouraged his sons to do so as well. He also spent time sharing his love of camping with his sons. When his oldest son was born, Brian said he would always get his kids the best toys, and as a kid at heart, he did not disappoint! Even better, he was usually playing right along with them and with his many nieces and nephews. Brian also loved animals, especially dogs, cats, and fish…. many of which were named Fred. 

From his hearty laugh to his twinkling green eyes, Brian was the kind of person that loved people and loved life in general. Other interests indicative of that fun loving nature include: science fiction movies, especially those with special effects such as Star Wars, Dune, Tron, and Blade Runner, video games, with Call of Duty and Gears of War being favorites, and in addition, any and all arcade games. He was also a man who loved music and concerts, the louder the better! His favorite song was “Send Me an Angel” by Real Life. 

In 2017, Brian married Sandra Formosa of Adelaide, Australia, and they enjoyed several years of happiness and a life full of adventure together that led them to Great Falls, Montana. His fun-loving and outgoing personality is what drew Sandra and Brian together. They enjoyed each other’s company, going on walks, socializing with friends, traveling, and riding on the Harley Davidson.

Brian is survived by his wife, Sandra Formosa of Great Falls, MT. Brian is survived by his sons, Alex and Ashton Klepko of Shirley, AR, whom he shared with former spouse Amber McIntosh. He is also survived by a stepson, Clayton Fox Formosa of Adelaide, Australia. Brian is also survived by his loving parents, Harry and Liz Klepko of Eads, TN and four brothers, Jason Klepko (Elena of Tampico, Mexico) of Eads, TN, Shane Klepko (Anne Marie) of Naples, FL, Jared Klepko (Heather) of Germantown, TN, and Ryan Klepko (Robyn) of Clearwater, FL. Other survivors include many nieces and nephews: William, Caroline, KatieJane, Markus, and Samantha Klepko of Naples, FL, Savannah, Landon, Olivia, Madeline, Emily, Nora, and Charlotte Klepko of Germantown, TN. Survivors also include uncles and aunts: David Bittman (Diane) of Sparrow’s Point, MD; Robert Bittman (Cindy) of New Orleans, LA, Cheryl Klepko (Lloyd Riedling) of Mandeville, LA; Dale Klepko (Deborah) of New Orleans, LA. Brian also leaves behind two cousins, Charles “Tad” Furer (Elise) of Blue Hill, ME and Brent Klepko of Galveston, TX. Brian is also survived by a close family friend Elizabeth “Liz” Stackiewicz Nowak. Brian is preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry Klepko Sr., Yvonne L. McCormick and Rudolph and Jean C. Bittman.

Brian’s favorite quote, which comes from the movie Blade Runner, truly describes him and epitomizes the life that he lived, “The light that burns twice as bright burns half as long and you have burned so very very brightly…”

May we be strengthened by God as we forever cherish the memories we have of Brian in our hearts. Our family thanks you for your love, prayers, and support.

A viewing will be held Sunday, April 24, 2022 at 3 pm with a service to follow at 4 pm. Services will be held at Memphis Funeral Home at 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee. A celebration of his life will be held on his birthday July 3, 2022.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in his honor to stjude.org or woundedwarriorproject.org.

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