December 17, 2019
In Memoriam: Scot B. Kleinendorst ’82; all-ECAC hockey defenseman played in NHL
Scot “Scotty” B. Kleinendorst ’82, an all-ECAC hockey defenseman at Providence College who went on to play in the NHL, died on Dec. 17, 2019, from injuries sustained in a work-place accident in Grand Rapids, Minn.
A Grand Rapids native, he graduated from Grand Rapids High School and went on to an all-star career at PC. Mr. Kleinendorst played four seasons for the Friars. The 6-3, 205-pound defenseman appeared in 120 games, scoring 93 career points on 19 goals and 74 assists.
He was named to the All-ECAC Team twice and, along with his brother, Kurt Kleinendorst ’83, helped lead the Friars’ 1980-81 squad to the ECAC championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
Drafted by the New York Rangers in the fifth round of the 1980 NHL Draft, Mr. Kleinendorst played professional hockey for nine seasons (1982-1990), including parts of eight seasons in the NHL with the Rangers, Hartford Whalers, and Washington Capitals. He tallied 58 points, including 12 goals, In 281 NHL games.
Mr. Kleinendorst was employed by UPM Blandin, a paper manufacturer, and ran his own heating and cooling company, Ducts Unlimited.
Family and friends say he embodied the unique combinations of being tough yet tender, confident yet humble. He was a private person yet dedicated his life to taking care of and watching out for others.
Mr. Kleinendorst was the husband of Deborah R. Johnson ’82. His other survivors include his son, Kyle; daughter, Kelby; grandson, Jaxon; father, Elton “Jack”; brothers, Kurt and Gary; sisters, Deb Thomas, Marge Loisel, and Brenda Fox; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held at the IRA Civic Center Arena in Grand Rapids on Dec. 27.
