Paul W. Kliewer |
| Posted 2025-03-09 by Sharla |
| The Wickenburg Sun, Wickenburg, AZ March 5, 2025 Paul Kliewer September 6, 1928 - February 7, 2025 Dr. Paul W. Kliewer passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025. Paul was born on Sept. 6, 1928 in Newton, Kan. to Marjorie (nee McKee) and Zeke “Otto” Kliewer. He graduated from Atchison High School, and immediately joined the U.S. Army, serving two years until honorably discharged in December of 1947. Using the G.I. Bill, Paul attended the University of Kansas, receiving his B.A. in 1952. He continued his education at the University of Kansas Medical School. While he continued his studies, he married Melba Cantrell. After receiving his MD, he and Melba moved west to complete his residency and internship at Good Samaritan hospital in Phoenix. In 1957, he opened his medical practice in Wickenburg. In 1959, the couple adopted a baby girl, Paula. Sadly, Melba died young, leaving Dr. Kliewer with a growing medical practice and a young daughter to raise. In time, he met and married Marilyn Roney. Together with her young sons, Jim and Chris, they moved to Wickenburg as a family of five. The family expanded again with Patricia in 1968, and Andrew in 1969. The children continued to grow, but the marriage suffered and ultimately dissolved. Happily, in 1984, Paul married his soul-mate Terry Hardee. They built a wonderful life together for 40+ years. Throughout the years Dr. Kliewer, or “Doc” as he came to be known, cared for his patients through all aspects of their lives. From birth to minor illnesses, surgeries, accidents and ultimately their death, “Doc” was there. He was the embodiment of the country doctor. He made house calls day or night, attending patients and their families with compassion and his infamous corny jokes. He often said the greatest joy of his practice was ushering in new life. During his tenure as physician, he delivered more than 1,500 babies, in many cases multiple generations of the same family. Dr. Kliewer also served as medical director for many years at Parkview Meadow Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Facility. He was recognized in Arizona and nationally as a leader in the field of family medicine, serving on the boards of many professional organizations, including as chairman of the Scientific Committee. He was part of the board of directors of the American Academy of Family Physicians for many years and served as president of the Arizona chapter in 1983. In the early 2000’s, Dr. Kliewer sold his practice. He and Terry moved to New Mexico. He was a physician with the Morenci Mine, as well as a medical clinic in the area, until his retirement. While medicine was Paul’s calling, his passion was horses. He was never happier than riding through the desert, enjoying the serenity and beauty. He joined the Desert Caballeros in 1958 where he served many roles including, Trail Boss, Ride Doc and ultimately “El Presidente.” He was honored with an award for 59 consecutive years riding with the group. Dr. Kliewer is preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Marjorie; his brother, Max; sons, Christopher and Andrew Kliewer; and grandson, Tyler Brown. He is survived by his wife, Terry; son, Jim Kliewer (Carol); daughters, Paula Sinadinos (Frank) and Tricia Brown (Scott); step-daughter, Kelly Kane (Doug); grandchildren, Amy (Scott) Sinadinos-Howard, Courtney Whorton (Levi), Emily Sinadinos, Seth Kane and Hannah Kane. He also leaves eight beloved great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews he held so dear. A celebration of life will be held at the Wickenburg Community Center on May 10, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul’s memory may be made to K9 Konnection Rescue in Wickenburg. See Also: Find A Grave |
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