Kenneth Ray Kleypas (“Kenny”), 62 of Port Acres, passed away on Friday, November 4, 2011 after accidentally slipping and drowning near his boat in Port Acres, TX.  Kenny was born in Temple, TX on August 18, 1948, the first of seven children of A.C. (“Dick”) and Shirley Kleypas.  He graduated from Bishop Byrne High School in 1967 and attended Lamar University.  His high school motto was “He’ll do anything once, sometimes twice” which so colorfully described his free-spirit philosophy.  He served in the U.S. National Guard (Company C) between 1969 and 1975, and worked at the Mobile Oil Refinery in Port Neches, TX.

   Kenny lived his passion for boats and fishing.  He lived on his 48 ft Hatteras yacht, the “Fish Tales” in Port Acres for the last ten years.  He was a certified boat captain, and once won the SALT fishing Tournament.  He twice weathered his vessel through major storms, Hurricanes Rita and Ike, and enjoyed many fishing adventures prior to that.  He was a meticulous craftsman, but he was also a great cook and storyteller.  He generously shared many stories and a lot of his seafood with his friends and family.

   He is survived by two daughters, Kimberley Kleypas, and Desiree Montie, a grandchild Christian Beavers, his mother Shirley Kleypas, brothers and sisters Kay Mason, Ricky and Theresa Kleypas, Yvonne Kleypas, Joanie Kleypas, Lori and Patrick Plott, and Michael and Jynatha Kleypas.

   Kenny is best remembered for his big smile, his artistic ability and craftsmanship, his love of the Gulf, but mainly for his generosity and compassion for friends and animals.

   Memorial Service will be held on Monday, November 7, 2011, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Melancon’s Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, TX.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Animal Shelter of Southeast Texas, 2050 Spindletop Ave., Beaumont, TX 77705 Details and online guest registry available at Melancons.org.