Saratoga Springs, NY- Kris-jon Klopstock, known to many as K-j, and to a special few as Gramps, passed away on Thursday August 6th, 2026.

K-j was a Native Saratogian who enjoyed the many splendors of this town. He became a pillar of the community, a trusted neighbor, friend and family member you could rely on – whether it was to help clear a downed tree, shovel a walkway or simply share in an experience. His commitment didn’t stop there; in fact, he was committed to many things in life that helped define his legacy.

Sobriety; This was a gift he gave to himself, with love and support from his family. K-j continued his sobriety through the end of his life, achieving more than 33 years of sobriety. He shared his experience over the years helping to influence many to walk the same path. He showed us what life could truly be without the anchor of alcohol not through judgement but with truth, kindness, love and support.

Nature; K-j loved the natural beauties of this world and spent much of his life fully immersed in them. This passion was instilled by those who came before him and took the time to show what the natural world has to offer. K-j loved hiking the Adirondack Mountains, along with many other gratifying mountain ranges throughout the world. In fact, he successfully summited the Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland, which is well known for its difficulty because of its steep rock formations and fast-moving weather patterns.

The outdoors brought him peace, and is where he spent much of his time.

Dogs; In addition to nature, K-j loved dogs. You could always find K-j with a dog by his side, usually a German Shepherd and off-leash. K-j used to joke that he loved dogs more than (most) people for their continued loyalty and undying love. When he was out in nature surrounded by dogs, he would say, “this is my bliss.”

Another notable adventure for K-j was when he took his dog Eisen for a cross-country journey, staying in his Honda Element except for one night per week, when he’d stay at a Motel. His travels took him across the blue roads, visiting some friends and family along the way but most of the time was spent slowing down and reflecting on what this world has to offer while accepting what was in front of him.

Weaving dogs and nature into his life wasn’t something K-j did on occasion, it’s how he lived and something he proudly passed on to his beloved grandchildren, Burke & Keene Klopstock through their many adventures together.

As a primary caretaker for Burke and Keene, Gramps was there for everything – no matter the scenario or occasion, Gramps was there. He would often say watching his grandchildren grow and being there with them to show them all the beauties of life, nature, and dogs was the greatest pleasure in his life. He is forever imprinted on their lives and his legacy lives on through them.

K-j’s selflessness and commitment to supporting others was one of his many gifts. He touched so many lives during his time, whether it was through spoken words, a simple gesture or just by being who he was – a supportive, passionate person.

What we received from K-j was made possible by his strength. K-j was one of the strongest individuals around; he never complained or took the easy way out. The strength to carry on is what he’s left us with and that’s what we’ll continue to do in his name, to honor the person he was and the gifts he bestowed upon those lucky enough to receive them.

Don’t Give Up the Ship!

There will be a private gathering to celebrate K-j’s life, held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to either of the following non-profit organizations in K-j’s name.

H.O.P.E https://hopeanimalrescue.org/donate/

Operation at Ease: https://operationatease.org/ways-to-support/

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com