Richard “Giz” Kloppenburg, 83, of Ankeny, passed away on October 29, 2026, at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines, Iowa.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 6, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd). A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with burial at Ankeny Memorial Gardens.

Rich was born October 25, 1943, in Wiota, Iowa, to Kermit and Virginia Kloppenburg. He attended Anita High School and went on to graduate from Upper Iowa University.

Rich spent most of his career in the telephone industry, starting as a lineman with Northwestern Bell in Carroll and working his way up to management. He later worked for US West in Des Moines and, after retiring, joined Iowa Network Services. Along the way, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Upper Iowa University.

Rich met his wife, Sandy Krogh, while attending Anita High School, and they were married on February 24, 1963. Together, they built a life and family filled with many years of memories.

When he wasn't working, Rich enjoyed spending time outdoors and keeping busy with the things he loved. Ice fishing, golfing, woodworking, boating with the grandkids, and gardening were among his favorite pastimes. He was especially handy and seemed to have a knack for fixing things, often finding a way to make something work rather than giving up on it.

Rich's greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind. He is survived by his daughters, Kristi (Mike) Watson and Jodi Broshar; son-in-law, Chip Williams; grandchildren, Jacob Watson (Stephen), Nick Watson (Ally), Katie Spudic (David), Taylor Broshar, Hannah Broshar, Colby Williams (Elijah Hoffman); and great-grandchildren, Charlotte Watson, Vivi Watson, and Luka Spudic. He will also be remembered by extended family members and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandy; daughter, Kim Williams; parents, Kermit and Virginia; brothers, Gary and David; and sister, Carol.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the staff at Lutheran Hospital, 3 North, for the wonderful care they provided, as well as the staff at Taylor House for their kindness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.