William H. Kleimola

DULUTH, Minn. - William H. Kleimola, 40, of Kimball, Wisconsin, passed away at St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth after a short illness on Thursday, July 4, 2024.

William was born March 13, 1984, in Ironwood, Michigan, to JoAnn Niemi (Pelkola) and Walter Kleimola. He was later guided in life by his second father, Roy Niemi. He attended and graduated from Hurley K-12 School in 2003. Willy went on to dedicate a career of over 20 years to Kimball Inn restaurant.

Willy was preceeded in death by his father, Walt Kleimola; mother, Joann Niemi; and dear brother, Benjamin Kleimola.

He is survived by his sister, Ellie Niemi; and a number of close friends.

As a child, Willy was never without Benny at his side. The two would often be seen riding their bikes to the Kimball courts or swimming in the river. Fishing was his passion, as was reflected in his art and was the subject matter of all his paintings. Basketball was another true talent of his as well.

He will best be remembered for his kind heart, patience, positive spirit and how he would gladly tell you jokes or stories for days if you only let him. His smile was infectious and you couldn't help but smile along with him. Willy was an avid music lover and enthusiastic about sharing it with the world. If you were a friend of his on Facebook you probably already know this.

A celebration of life will be held at the Kimball Community Center, Saturday, July 20, beginning at 2 p.m. Everyone who knew him is encouraged to attend and celebrate his life with us.

The family has chosen the McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home in Ironwood to honor Willy's legacy of life. To make an online condolence, visit McKevittPatrickFuneralHome.com