Gloria Marie (Baux) Klein

With profound sadness yet boundless gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Gloria Marie (Baux) Klein. Gloria left this world on April 7, 2026, just two days after celebrating her 87th birthday, surrounded by her adoring family at her home—a place filled with love and cherished memories. Born on April 5, 1939, in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois, Gloria was the cherished daughter of David Henry Baux and Clara Martha Ruble. She was a proud graduate of Downers Grove High School, class of 1957, and carried her midwestern values with her throughout her life. Gloria, or "Glo" as she was affectionately known, wanted to travel, and after graduating, drove the infamous I66 with her friend Nancy and moved to California, where she began a long, fulfilling career. She spent many years as a dedicated waitress in El Cajon and Santee, known for her warm smile and kind-hearted service. Her true calling, however, was found in her 30 years of service with the Ramona School District, where she spent 27 years as the compassionate health clerk at Olive Pierce Middle School. Her care and commitment to the children she served left an indelible mark on countless lives. Her life was a testament to the joys found in simple pleasures and the beauty of the natural world. Gloria was an avid bird watcher and could often be found with a sketchpad in hand, capturing the grace of the creatures she so loved. Her culinary skills were unmatched, and she delighted in cooking for her family, hosting legendary BBQs that brought her loved ones together. Road trips were another passion, and she embraced every journey with enthusiasm and wonder. Gloria was a long time supporter of the San Diego Safari Park and Zoo, where she spent countless hours marveling at the wonders of wildlife, loved the Okapi's a passion she shared with her children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Ronald "Buddy" Klein, her loving mother, Clara, and her treasured daughter, Wendy CK Hart. Her spirit, however, lives on in her surviving children: Lori, David, Ron, Jimmy, and Beth, alongside her ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and joy. Gloria had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome and cherished. Her love was a guiding light for her family, encouraging them to embrace life's beauty and cherish each moment. At Gloria's request, a private funeral ceremony will be held to honor her life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in her memory to the San Diego Safari Park and Zoo, through the Gloria Klein Memorial Fund, to continue her legacy of nurturing a passion for wildlife and conservation. Donations can be made at San Diego Safari Park and Zoo Donation Page. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Elizabeth Hospice and Gloria's dedicated caregivers, whose support and compassion made Gloria's final days as comfortable and peaceful as possible. Gloria's light will continue to shine through the lives of those she touched, and the love she shared will be a lasting testament to her remarkable spirit. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten, forever in the hearts of her family and friends.