Dennis Ray Klene, Jr.

Dennis Ray Klene, Jr., 56, of Porter, passed away on March 23, 2026. He was born on December 5, 1969, in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

Dennis lived a life defined by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for his family. In his early years, he was an avid athlete who enjoyed all sports. Following high school, he proudly served his country for four years as a corpsman in the United States Navy, where he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

Following his military service, Dennis pursued his passion for the outdoors and turf management, earning a bachelor’s degree in Turf Management from the University of South Alabama. In 1998, he moved to Houston, Texas, where he built a successful and respected career in the golf and turf industry. He worked as a golf superintendent for 22 years, earning the respect of colleagues and peers throughout the field.

Dennis later transitioned into sales leadership, working for Texas Sports Sands for 10 years, where he rose to Vice President of Sales. He continued his career with the Keeling Company as a Regional Sales Manager and was most recently serving as a Regional Sales Manager for JM Huber Corporation.

Outside of his career, Dennis had a true love for the outdoors. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing, and cherished every opportunity to be outside. He was a member of the Central Texas Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and the Houston Golf Association, and he was also a proud member of Highlands Golf Club.

Dennis was a man of deep and steady faith, whose beliefs guided not only his words but his actions each day. He led by quiet example, showing strength through kindness, humility, and unwavering integrity. His faith was a source of comfort and direction, shaping a life marked by compassion, service, and love.

Dennis’ greatest joy in life was his family. He treasured time spent with his loved ones, especially his wife, children and grandchildren. Family vacations were among his most cherished memories, and he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Ray Klene, Sr.

He is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Bernadette Klene; children, Kristen Sargent (Heath), Jason Emmons, and Lauren Klene; grandchildren, Teagan Sargent and Fallon Sargent; mother, Mary Brown (Gary); sisters, Sherry Hill and Denise Gill; brother-in-law, David Spitale (Sherri); along with 16 nieces and nephews and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Rios Funeral Directors, 122 Commercial Circle, Conroe, TX 77304. An additional viewing will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 7801 Bay Branch Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77382, followed by a Funeral Mass at noon. A Rosary will be held 30 minutes prior. A reception will follow at the church parish hall.