Homer Boss Klonis

Homer Boss Klonis was born on November 3, 1942 to Carol Mead Klonis and Bernard Klonis in New York City, NY. He grew up in New York City and spent his summers in Mooers Forks, NY.  After graduating from New York City’s Stuyvesant High School, he attended Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he belonged to the Delta Phi fraternity. He pursued his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Colorado, Boulder, where he was elected to the national chemistry honor society, Phi Lambda Upsilon. He met his wife-to-be the day before classes started in September 1966. Homer and Leah K Triebswetter were married on December 30, 1967. While living in Boulder, his favorite activities were skiing and hiking in the foothills. In 1972, his daughter, Suzanne, was born. After receiving his doctorate, Homer worked at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). In 1974, the Klonis family moved to Richardson/Dallas, Texas, where he worked at Mostek, Albert Halff Associates, and finally, Texas Instruments. Over 27 years, he worked as a member of the Senior Technical Staff in various areas of TI. During his working years, Homer won six patents and published five articles in professional journals.

After moving to Texas, Homer became a die-hard birder, traveling all over Texas and other states and internationally, to be able to add another species to his Life List. At the time of his death, Homer had over 3,500 species on his Life List. He will be remembered by those who knew him as a committed and passionate protector of wildlife and natural ecosystems, promoting and actively contributing to The National Audubon Society, Natural Resources Defense Council, the National Wildlife Federation, among others. Homer’s other love was travel. Homer and Leah traveled to 46 countries on six continents. There was always another place that was on the “travel to next” list.

Homer was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard Klonis and Carol Mead Klonis. He was also preceded in death by his older brothers, Harry Astlett and Brian Dunlap.

He is survived by his wife, Leah K Klonis; daughter, Suzanne C Klonis; son-in-law, Michael Neelon, and grandchildren, Nathaniel Neelon and Graham Neelon. Homer is also survived by his sister-in-law, Delfa Dunlap, and best friend, David Morgan.

In lieu of a funeral service, there will be a Celebration of Homer’s Life to be held at his home, 10207 Shadow Way, Dallas, on Saturday, April 23, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, Homer’s family requests that you make a memorial donation to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) at PO Box 1830, Merrifield, VA, 22116-8030.

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