Theodore Joseph Kleban, lovingly known as "Teddy", passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on December 16, 2024, in Whiting, NJ, engulfed in love and surrounded by his family.

Ted was born on October 17, 1945, in Philadelphia, PA and grew up in Sewaren, NJ. While he lived in various states throughout the country (NJ, Texas, Florida and Georgia) he always called the Jersey Shore "home". Ted served his country in the United States Air Force where he was stationed at the Kunsan Air Base in South Korea during the Vietnam War.

From an early age, Ted had a passion for engineering and spent his life dedicated to construction projects ranging from residential communities, schools, highways and beach-front condos.

Ted's greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He loved boating on the Barnegat Bay, whether by way of sail or motor, where he would spend most of his summer days. If not boating, Ted spent his days playing guitar and listening to his favorite folk musicians. Ted was an avid bowler, and once owned and operated a bowling alley (Hill Bowl, Carteret NJ). A self proclaimed cornhole champion, bird-watching enthusiast, and sports lover, Ted left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Elizabeth Kleban, and his brother, James Kleban. He is survived by the love of his life of 40 years, Mary Kleban; his children, Meredith (William) Zega, Theodore C. Kleban, and Kyla Kleban (Andrew Nagle), as well as step-children Sebastian Costa and Angelina (Eric) Frankovic. Together they have 5 loving grandchildren, Zachary and Hayley Zega, and Jack, Annabella and Francesca Frankovic. Ted is also survived by his many siblings that he adored, including five sisters and one brother.

A celebration of Ted's life will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, from 2-5 pm at Manchester Memorial Funeral Home, 28 Schoolhouse Rd, Whiting, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Save the Barnegat Bay, a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring and protecting his favorite waterway.