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Walter Klinger, known to many as Sonny, a lifelong resident of Ponca City, a father, a friend with a warm smile, and a heart of gold, passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 81. A Memorial Ceremony will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, January 16, 2026, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory, 505 W. Grand Ave, Ponca City, OK, 74601.
Born on June 5, 1944, to Walter and Mabel Klinger in Ponca City, he spent his youth running around in the Osage and graduated PoHi in 1962. Walt told stories of finding increasingly creative ways to leave burnouts on the hills of Sherwin Road in his Willy’s Jeep. In his younger years, he learned the value of hard work as a farm hand for the Steichen family near Marland.
In 1964, Walter married Ruth Klinger (DeBuhr), and in 1969, they welcomed their son, Bryan.
Following high school, he attended Northern Oklahoma College before answering the call to serve. Walter joined the Army National Guard in 1966, where he served as a cook and earned awards for outstanding marksmanship. He was honorably discharged in 1973, carrying with him a lifelong discipline and a talent for cooking up delicious meals.
In 1964, Walter began what would become a remarkable 50-year career with the City of Ponca City. Starting as a meter reader, then becoming the billing manager for the Water & Light Billing office. He oversaw the installation and use of the City’s first computer system. Walt then progressed to work in Information and Technology Services until his retirement in 2014.
Walter was a man of many passions, but the water was where he truly thrived. Whether he was running the river noodling and trot lining for catfish in his younger days, or pulling stripers from below Kaw Dam, Walter was at home in the outdoors. His passion for bass fishing took him on annual adventures with his son, Bryan, traveling from the border waters of Amistad and Falcon in Texas to Northern Michigan and Minnesota on the Great Lakes along with countless inland waters between. Walter competed in the PC Team Bass Club frequently finishing at the top of the leaderboard with his fishing partner, Wayne Pemberton. He also served as the club’s treasurer for many years. Walt also enjoyed playing golf for many years (much to the dismay of his son Bryan).
At home, Walter was a master tinkerer who could fix anything from engines to automated electronic home systems. He was an avid gardener, incredible cook, and a lifelong Sooner basketball and football fan.
He is survived by his son, Bryan Klinger and wife Becki of Ponca City; his sister, Joyce Meadows of Ponca City; and his nieces and nephew, Brenda (Leroy) Luis, Rhonda (Sonny) Michalsky and Chad (Amber) Meadows. He also leaves behind his most beloved and inseparable furry companion, Lucy, who misses her Daddy terribly.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Mabel Klinger, and his brother-in-law, Bill Meadows.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mary's Catholic School Foundation, 415 S 7th St, Ponca City, OK 74601
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