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Positive people: Dedication to community a staple trait for Kliney Williams

AVIS -- You would be hard-pressed to find someone who loves people more than Kline "Kliney" Williams. Whether he is in a crowd of strangers, or walking through Lock Haven, Kliney will make new friends. He is the very definition of a "people person."

If you walk into a restaurant with him, it takes a while until he joins you at the table. Not that he is rude, the total opposite is true. His travel to the table takes so long because of the other people in the restaurant who call out to say hello. Because of his friendly, outgoing nature, he stops and greets them all.

Most people in town know him as the owner of Kliney's Home Furnishings in Woolrich. Fewer people know the caring man and the many things he does to improve our area. His daughter, Chelsey, describes him as the "kindest soul that can light up any room."

Kliney was born in Blanchard, the son of Dorothy and Charles Williams. He was one of six children, with four sisters and a brother. After graduating from Lock Haven High School, he received an associate degree in accounting from Williamsport Area Community College (now Pennsylvania College of Technology).

His career in the furniture business began in 1970, when he started working at Romig's in Mill Hall. In 1986, he went into business for himself, opening Kliney's Home Furnishings. His slogan of "it's just like coming home" fits his business perfectly. Kliney will happily tell you that "people come in as customers and leave as friends." On any given day, you are likely to find the "regulars" at the counter, who come in just to chat.

Judy Yost, his long-time employee, says "You watch his face in the morning when he opens the door, and he beams." She notes how he loves being around people and says the joy has rubbed off on her. "It's more than a job."

If you've ever heard the saying, "if my dog likes you, I probably will, too," it was written for Kliney. Part of the reason he loves delivering furniture is the chance to meet the family pets. He is especially fond of golden retrievers.

Kliney and his wife, Lisa, a retired kindergarten teacher, have been married for almost 36 years. She will tell you he is kind and generous, as well as a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Lisa says she has "never met anyone who truly enjoys interacting with people as much as he does." She also adds that he is "one of the most humble people you will ever meet."

Kliney has five children, Kristy, Tiffany, Emily, Chelsey and Kline Michael, along with five grandchildren. His children are as friendly and outgoing as he is. He is a true family man and is never happier than when he is spending time with family and being a Poppi. His daughter, Emily, describes her dad as "one of the hardest working people I know," but also notes his "pride in being a great, supportive dad and loving grandfather."

Sports are a passion for Kliney, whether playing or watching. He was active for years playing in tennis, badminton and volleyball leagues. Recently, he and his wife took up pickleball. His children are also active. They played various sports during high school and college. Kline Michael remembers him "being on the sidelines for all of my sporting events." He calls his father "a constant source of inspiration and support."

Lisa says Kliney is "very loyal to the Phillies, Packers and Nittany Lions."

On every Penn State football Saturday, you will find him with a smile on his face, tailgating with family and friends before the game. He's been known to sit at his tailgate, on a sunny Saturday, saying "it doesn't get any better than this."

He has been a season ticket holder at Beaver Stadium for over 50 years. He even attended the Big 10 championship game and the Rose Bowl.

Kline Michael happily recalls his dad "taking me to all the Penn State football games" while growing up. The tailgate recently grew by one, with the addition of his granddaughter, Carleigh, who now attends with her parents, Emily and Dan.

On Friday nights in the fall, you will find Kliney on what he calls "the chain gang." He is part of the crew on the sidelines of the Central Mountain High School home games, running the yardage chains, and rooting for his hometown team.

His service to the school district extends beyond sports. Kliney serves on the board of the Keystone Central Foundation, a nonprofit that works to support the unmet needs of students in the district.

For over 30 years, Kliney has been a member of the local Lions Club. The organization assists with things like donating glasses at the high school, putting in ramps and buying cameras for local police. Kliney, and local businessperson Mark Davis, were recently awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship for "dedication to humanitarian service to the highest degree."

His dedication to service inspired his children. Emily, Chelsey and Kline Michael all became involved in Thon, while students at Penn State. "Hard work and empathy are two qualities that my dad instilled in us," Emily says.

When you talk to his children, they have the greatest admiration for their father. Chelsey talks of his "enjoyment of life, driven attitude and fun-loving spirit." Kline Michaels notes his "commitment, combined with his positivity and enthusiasm." Emily admires his "hard work and empathy". They all describe a man who has given his children a person they respect and love.

It’s difficult to adequately describe Kliney Williams. He is a modern man, tolerant and open minded. He is a devoted family man and a good friend to many. He is a man who cares about his community. He is also a throwback to a friendlier time, with his love of life and positive attitude. In these times of negativity, we could use a lot more people like Kliney.