Lincoln Sterling Klinger, age 44, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family.  Lincoln was a devoted husband, a loving father, a passionate coach, a dedicated teacher, and a friend to so many.  Above all else, Lincoln’s greatest joy was his family.  He loved his wife deeply and was incredibly proud of his four boys.  His family was his world, and there was nowhere he would rather be, than by their side.

Lincoln had a passion for coaching that reached far beyond the playing field.  He loved coaching all things and had a natural ability to teach, encourage, challenge, and believe in the people around him.  But his favorite place to be, was on the sideline, cheering on his boys.  Whether it was a big game or an ordinary afternoon, Lincoln was there - watching, encouraging, celebrating, and making sure his boys knew how proud he was of them.  Those memories of Dad on the sideline will remain with his boys forever.

Lincoln was someone who was always up for a good time.  He loved being surrounded by family and friends, enjoying a Michigan football game, cheering on the Detroit Lions, spending time on the golf course, and making memories that would be talked about long after the day was over.  He especially looked forward to spring break in Panama City Beach, where he could relax, have fun, and enjoy time with the people he loved.

Lincoln also brought his passion and greatness into the classroom.  He was a teacher at Mendon and Three Rivers, where he made an impact on countless students.  He had a gift for connecting with kids, encouraging them, and helping them see what they were capable of.  Teaching was more than a job for Lincoln - it was another way he could coach, mentor, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Lincoln will be remembered for his big heart, his sense of humor, his competitive spirit, his loyalty, and the way he showed up for the people he loved.  He gave his time, his energy, and his whole heart to his family, his students, his athletes, and his friends.

His greatest legacy, however, will live on in his four boys.  They will carry with them the lessons he taught them, the memories he created with them, and the love he gave them every single day.  They will always know that their dad was their biggest fan.  Lincoln leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, memories, and people whose lives are better because he was part of them.  Though his time was far too short, the impact he made will last a lifetime.

Lincoln was a husband, a dad, a coach, a teacher, and a friend—but to his boys, he was simply, Dad. And he will forever be one of their greatest gifts.

Lincoln is survived by his wife of 21 years, Brandi Klinger; his four sons; Owen Klinger, Miles Klinger, Bo Klinger, and Quinn Klinger; his parents; Marcie (Joesph) Vrobel and Rock (Bev) Klinger; his four siblings; Allison Heath, Mandy (Vic) Wilczynski, Calvin (Kristen) Klinger, and Brittany (Logan) Kutz; his grandmother Carol King; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended families, and friends.  He was preceded in passing by his grandfather Ron King; and his grandparents; Dwayne and Evalyn Klinger and Vern and Shirley Rohrer.

In keeping with Lincoln’s wishes, cremation is being conducted. Visitation for Lincoln will be held on Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 12pm until 3pm at the Mendon High School basketball court - a place he spent much of his life, both as an athlete and as a coach.  A funeral prayer service will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 12pm at St. Edward Catholic Church (332 W State Street, Mendon, MI 49072) with Deacon Tom Thamann officiating. A private burial will take place at a later date. It is suggested that donations made in Lincoln’s name, be directed to his family to help support his four boys. Condolences and memories may be expressed to his family at eickhofffuneralhome.com