Jeffrey Burton Clinger

Jeffrey Clinger, age 65, passed away on April 27, 2026, leaving behind a life full of service, adventure, laughter, and unforgettable stories. Born on May 29, 1960, Jeff was known for his distinguished military and professional career—but just as much for his playful spirit, quick wit, and deep love of golf. From an early age, Jeff embraced life with enthusiasm and humor. In high school, he was active in football and track, performed in school musicals, and never shied away from the spotlight. Even then, his personality was unmistakable—competitive, curious, and always ready to joke around. He had a gift for making people laugh and a tendency to keep things light, even in serious moments, traits that defined him throughout his life. Jeff attended Grand Valley State University, graduating in 1983. While at GVSU, he continued his involvement in athletics as a member of the track team, competing as a pole vaulter—a challenging event that reflected both his athleticism and fearless nature. His time at Grand Valley remained an important chapter in his life and a source of lasting pride. Soon after college, Jeff joined the United States Army, where he trained as a helicopter pilot. Over the course of his military service, Jeff advanced to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Two and became a Cobra test pilot, a role requiring exceptional skill, discipline, and courage. His service took him to duty stations across the United States and overseas, including Germany, where he met his first wife, Heike. Jeff took great pride in fatherhood. While living in Europe, he loved coaching his son, Kevin Clinger, in football, enthusiastically supporting him from the sidelines and sharing his own love of the game. Jeff was especially proud and excited to see Kevin later move back to Michigan, play football at the Park, and graduate from the same high school Jeff himself had attended—a full‑circle moment that meant a great deal to him. Following his honorable military career, Jeff continued his service as a Department of Defense contractor, working on advanced training systems involving simulated computer warfare. He collaborated with senior military leadership from NATO countries, drawing on both his technical expertise and his ability to connect easily with others. His work took him around the world, including Romania, where he met his second wife, Catalina. Jeff eventually ended his career with the Department of Defense while living in Florida, where he leaned fully into his greatest passion—golf. Golf was far more than a hobby for Jeff; it was his sport of choice, his competitive outlet, and one of his greatest joys. He competed on the VGA Tour and played courses throughout Florida, earning respect as a skilled golfer and friendship as an entertaining and good‑natured competitor. Jeff loved the challenge of the game, but even more, he loved the camaraderie, the banter, and the laughs that came with it. Golf also connected Jeff deeply to his family. Each year, the Clinger brothers competed in an annual family tournament known as the Clinger Open, held in honor of their late parents, Sam and Ruth Clinger. The prize was a coveted little brown jug, fiercely contested and proudly displayed by its winner. Jeff’s name appears on the jug more times than either of his brothers, a fact he greatly enjoyed reminding them of. The Clinger Open was more than a competition—it was tradition, laughter, and family legacy, and Jeff was very much at the center of it. Jeff also looked forward every year to returning to Michigan to participate in a golfing fundraiser with longtime friends—a tradition he deeply valued and never missed. Above all, Jeff was playful, fun‑loving, and full of life. He loved to tease, tell stories, and keep those around him smiling. He was intelligent and accomplished, yet never pretentious, and he had a way of making people feel comfortable and included. Jeff is survived by his son, Kevin Clinger; his first wife, Heike; his second wife, Catalina; his older brother Randy (Sue) Clinger; and his younger brother Mark (Wendy) Clinger. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Ruth Clinger. Jeffrey Clinger lived a life defined by service, adventure, humor, and heart. From the cockpit to the fairway, from pole vault runways to football sidelines, and from family traditions to lifelong friendships, Jeff left behind a legacy of stories, laughter, and love that will endure. In Lieu of Flowers the family is asking for anyone who wants to contribute to follow the link provided here: https://gofund.me/2fa269398

Jeffrey Burton Clinger

May 29, 1960 - April 27, 2026