Geoffrey D. Klinger

Geoffrey D. Klinger, 54, passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2021.

He was a professor at DePauw University.

Geoff is survived by his daughters, Sage Klinger and Celeste Klinger; grandchild Beckham McBryde; parents J. Philip and Nancy White Klinger; brother Kevin Klinger (Susan); wife Gena Miller; and stepdaughters Jessica and Jenna Miller.

Geoff was a professor of communication in the Department of Communication and Theatre, in addition to being the director of forensics, and has overseen the DePauw debate program since his arrival at DePauw in 2003. He also taught at St. John’s University, Hanover College and the University of Utah after receiving his doctorate in communication from the University of Iowa in 1998.

He was an award-winning debater at DePauw as a student, and as a professor his teaching included public communication and controversy, rhetorical theory and criticism and the history of public discourse. His extensive expertise included rhetoric and public address. Geoff had a profound impact on generations of DePauw students, many of whom, inspired by his teaching and mentorship, went on to enjoy success in a wide variety of careers.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 15 at Plainfield United Methodist Church. A celebration of life will also be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 16 at DePauw University.

Contributions may be made to the Geoffrey D. Klinger Debate Fund at http://depauw.edu/gklinger.

A livestream of services is available at www.pumc.link/klinger.

Online condolences may be shared at www.conklefuneralhome.com.