Melvin "Sonny" Joseph Klein passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, adventure, friendship, fun, and love. Born on August 5, 1932, to Samuel and Frances Klein in their family home on Greening Avenue in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Sonny spent his life deeply rooted in the community he cherished.

Sonny graduated from Las Cruces Union High School before attending the University of Southern California, where he met Marilyn “Micki” Kloss, who became his wife and the mother of their four children. He was later drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. He proudly served his country while stationed at Fort Bliss.

After completing his military service, Sonny returned to Las Cruces with his wife and their firstborn son, Scott. He joined his brother, Howard, in the family business, Las Cruces Furniture Company, where he became well known for his hard work, integrity, and commitment to the community. In “retirement” Sonny had a second successful career as a local realtor. He forged numerous friendships in that field and enjoyed the day to day interactions with so many people.

A devoted civic leader, Sonny dedicated countless hours to making Las Cruces a better place. Throughout his life, he served in numerous leadership roles, including President of the Chamber of Commerce, the Shriners, the Lions Club, President of the Masonic Lodge, and the Aggie Booster Club. His passion for service and community leadership earned him the respect and admiration of many.

Sonny embraced life with enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure. He loved flying his airplane, spending time on Elephant Butte Lake boating, hunting and fishing with friends and family, and riding the many Harley-Davidsons he owned over the years. His travels took him around the world, where he made lifelong memories and friendships.

Later in life, Sonny married the love of his life, Rosa “Rosie” Strange. Together they shared many wonderful years filled with travel, motorcycles,

laughter, and unforgettable adventures. Their life together was a testament to love, companionship, and living each day to the fullest.

Known to everyone as "Sonny," he was the life of every gathering. His infectious smile, quick wit, generous heart, and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He truly never met a stranger. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, and his presence brightened every room he entered.

Sonny will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments, but for his kindness, his adventurous spirit, his unwavering love for family and friends, and the countless lives he touched throughout his 94 years.

He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly, treasured friends, and a community forever grateful for his lifelong contributions. His legacy of service, generosity, and joy for life will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Sonny is survived by his three beloved children, David Klein of San Francisco, CA, Lisa Perlmutter and husband Jay, of Englewood, Colorado, and Ronnie Klein and wife Debbie, of St. Petersberg, Florida. And grandchildren Nic Klein, Isaac Klein and wife Gracie, Jordan Klein, Brett Perlmutter and wife Lauren, Sean Perlmutter and wife Jordan, Kyle Perlmutter and husband Fede Chapa, McKenna Klein and wife Perri, Lauren Klein, Alexandra Klein, and six great grandchildren. And through his marriage to Rosa, stepdaughter Amy Douthitt and husband Jim, of Dallas, Texas, and Jennifer Griffith and husband Kenny, of Canyon Lake, Texas and their nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren .

He is preceded in death by his wife Rosie Klein, parents Samuel and Frances Klein, his brother Howard Klein, Sister Lillian (Sis) Druxman, and his beloved son Scott Klein.

A Funeral Service is scheduled for Monday, July 27, 2026 at 9:00AM in the Getz Funeral Home Chapel, Interment and Military Honors will follow at Masonic Cemetery.