Robert Lee Klinger the Flying Flea, 53 years old, of Rapid City, South Dakota, passed away in his home due to medical issues August 4, 2024.
Rob was born April 12, 1971, to Larry and Carol (Jones) Klinger in Pierre, SD. He graduated T.F. Riggs High School in May 1989. From high school he went on to college at Lake Area Vo Tech in Watertown, SD. After college he worked in retail in Pierre for a while. Later he moved to Rapid City where he was a manager for Radio Shack. Rob also worked as a detailer for Mid States Camper and Sales. For a short time, he worked in the cell phone business at Target until he decided to retire due to medical issues.
Rob enjoyed his years doing motocross, drag racing, pool league, spending time with family and friends as well as being at the dirt track. The last few years he spent time at Black Hills Speedway helping out on a rare night and anything else he could do to be on the track.
Through his years he made many, many friends. He always tried to keep in touch with family and friends. There wasn’t anywhere he went that someone didn’t know him.
In 2010, he fell in love with Donna Simkins. With her she brought three beautiful children, Abigail, Sebastian, and Kasondra Simkins, of whom he took in as his own. Rob was a great dad. He took pride in being their dad. He was at every parent teacher conference, every Saturday morning bowling league and tournament, and every football and basketball game. He taught them how to drive, ride a bike, he taught us all how to ride a motorcycle. He loved his family so much and took pride in our lil family.
Rob is survived by his parents, Larry and Carol (Jones) Klinger, Pierre; brother, Randy (Julie) Klinger, Sioux Falls, SD; sister, Tami (Kris) Herren, Fort Pierre, SD; wife, Donna, Rapid City; daughter, Abigail (Sam) Watkins and grandson, Bruce Watkins, Rapid City; daughter, Kasondra Simkins, Rapid City; son, Sebastian Simkins, Rapid City; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ben Klinger, Eddie and Irene Camin, Robert Jones, Roe and Gladys Grifford; uncle, Bob Leach; cousin, Allen Garber; and a few really great friends.
A celebration of Rob’s life will take place on at 1:00pm, September 7, 2024, at the Pierre American Legion, 520 S. Pierre St in Pierre.
Condolences can be sent to Donna and the kids at 4320 Dolphin Lane, Rapid City, SD 57701. You may sign his online guestbook at www.blackhillsfuneralhome.com.
