Joseph Michael Klebau passed away unexpectedly on May 14, 2026, at the age of 62.

Joe was the kind of person who never did anything in small measures. If he was interested in something, he dove in completely — whether it was woodworking, fixing things, collecting vinyl records, building spreadsheets to track lawnmower battery usage, or mastering the pizza oven or other kitchen gadget. A brilliant computer engineer and proud “nerd,” Joe worked for USA Firmware and previously contributed to projects involving the NASA next-gen spacesuit, combining his sharp mind with a deep curiosity about how things worked.

Born in Parma, Ohio, Joe was a graduate of Valley Forge High School and Case Western Reserve University. He was incredibly knowledgeable, thorough in everything he did, and always willing to share what he knew. His family lovingly remembers his “squirrel behavior” — looking for a sale, buying things in bulk, collecting hobbies, and throwing himself enthusiastically into every new interest.

Joe loved music and built an extensive vinyl collection over the years. He enjoyed movies so much he could quote them endlessly, loved space and science, the Simpsons, trains, RC cars, motocross, and woodworking projects. He also had a well-known sweet tooth, especially for Jolly Ranchers, Crunch Bars, jelly beans, Red Vines, bubble gum, and chocolate ice cream. He always said you could tell the quality of an ice cream shop by how good the chocolate ice cream was. Pizza, tacos, chili, Brussels sprouts, and peas were among some of his favorite foods.

More than anything, Joe loved his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 36 years, Mary Beth (Martin) Klebau, whom he met at Case Western. He was an unwavering supporter of his children, Michael (Sydney), Robin (Logan), and Sarah (Dominic). He is also survived by his siblings, Jackie and Jen, along with many extended family members, friends, and beloved grand-pets: Loki, Quinoa, Mocchi, Worm, and Minerva.

Whether coaching fast pitch, cheering on Cleveland sports teams, building Legos with family, or making people laugh until their ribs hurt, Joe brought energy, humor, and heart into every room he entered. Joe was funny, sarcastic, silly, generous, stubborn, and quick with a joke. He had a unique ability to make people feel seen, often taking a genuine interest in the hobbies and passions of others.

Joe’s legacy lives on in the laughter he created, the things he built, the knowledge he shared, and the deep love he had for the people closest to him. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered always.

Please join Joe’s family for a celebration of his life on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at Waite Funeral Home, 3300 Center Road, Brunswick. In honor of Joe, please wear your favorite concert t-shirt or hat.

Please share memories and condolences with Joe’s family on his tribute page at www.waitefuneralhome.com.