DODGE CITY - Eldon Leroy Klein, 76, of Dodge City, KS took his final road trip on Friday, July 3, 2026, in Colorado Springs, CO, a fitting place for a man who loved the mountains almost as much as he loved telling a good story.

Born August 25, 1949, in Larned, KS, Eldon was the 10th of 13 children, which meant he learned early how to work hard and walk to school uphill both ways. He grew up on the family farm near Hanston and graduated from Hanston High School before spending several years farming and most of his life trucking. As an owner/operator, he hauled just about everything including milk, Kodak film, cattle, tallow, grain and more.

In 1969, he married Ramona Marie Klein, and together they raised three children: Shawna, Shala, and Shanon. Though life took them in different directions, the family they built remained his proudest accomplishment.

Eldon enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, cooking, and any excuse to gather with family. His favorite adventures were the countless trips to the Colorado mountains, especially Twin Lakes, where he taught his grandkids to fish and perfected the art of mountain storytelling.

He was a devoted fan of old westerns, Fox News, and telling tales that grew a little bigger every time. And of course, he was famous for the “Eldon Shuffle,” a dance move so unique that many have tried to replicate but cannot duplicate.

He leaves behind his daughters Shawna Klein, San Antonio, TX; Shala Klein Portenier and husband Marlin, Dodge City; son Shanon Klein and wife Nicole, Dodge City; 6 grandchildren Madisyn, Alex and partner Becca, Adrian, Drew and partner Rebecca, Addison and husband Tristin, and Miya; 4 great grandchildren Amias, Kassidy, Hailyn and Blakelee; 2 brothers Jody Klein, Dodge City and Steve Klein and wife Penny, Enid, Oklahoma; 2 sisters Kay Parks and husband Jim, Manhattan, Kansas and Donna Sherman, Wichita; and approximately 30 nieces and nephews and 51 great nieces and nephews, give or take a few. Eldon was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Richard, Robert, and Jack; and sisters Ruby, Pat, Carolyn, Phyllis, and Barbara.

A come‑and‑go Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the VFW Post #1714 Cantina in Dodge City including a special happy hour toast at 4:00 pm. A private family interment will take place at a later date in the mountains. Cremation has taken place. Friends may sign the register from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Friday at Ziegler Funeral Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to the family in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, KS 67801.