CHARLES THOMAS KLINGNER 1943 – 2024

Charles Thomas (Tom) Klingner was passionate about fireworks and national parks, bikes and cars, electric cars, family and friends, sailing and skiing, rockets and computers. He could be heard shouting “whoop!” as he skied powder runs. He encouraged others on the slope to “befriend the moguls”, instilling enthusiasm for challenges. He was kind and welcoming.

He played a key role in building and running supercomputers while working at Los Alamos National Laboratory for 31 years. Owned the first Apple computer. He was the  grandfather who owned an iPhone and knew how to use it. A mathematician by degree and by heart. Known for sharing discoveries with contagious laughter. A guide helping friends to navigate the complexity of new technologies. Tom was a problem solver seeing this world as a playground with  pathways leading to joy.

For 20 years he confronted impacts from multiple myeloma with persistence, courage and resilience. He served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for friends, family and others living with cancer. He shared his journey, guiding with tenacity and insight. Tom was a valiant survivor. A kind and welcoming essence. He loved living. Died on his own terms.

Our thanks go to Del Corazon Hospice and EGIS for supportive care in our Santa Fe home. Hand holding through to the end.

He died on October 8 with a household full of family traveling from Portland, Fort Collins, Aspen, Ghent Belgium and DC. He  will be remembered by his loving wife Edi of 59 years as well as two children, two grandchildren, brother, sister and numerous friends. He is woven into the lives of many.