Florence Kleiner peacefully passed away in her sleep on Sunday, November 22 in Port Orange, Florida. At 97 years old, she was a most adored mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who was affectionately called Nanny.

Florence was born in Brooklyn, New York to her loving parents Edward Sorensen and Signe Sorensen. They knew each other in Norway, and then met again in Brooklyn, NY where they married and started a family. They raised their three daughters; Edna the oldest who was a mini mama, Florence the middle fiery wild child, and Norma the beautiful baby of the family. They were a close-knit family, and loved each other dearly. The spirit and resilience of her parents was part of her own DNA and they worked hard as first-generation Americans. Her father, an iron worker who was known as 'Eddie Wires', would eventually be part of the crew to build the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Signe was a strict but loving mother who would try her best to tame her independent and free-spirited middle daughter Florence.

Florence's formative years were spent in Brooklyn. She was a self-proclaimed tomboy even though most considered her a stunning strawberry blond with crystal blue eyes who could melt the heart of anyone who met her. She also called herself a daredevil and loved hopping trains, climbing scaffolding and fighting bullies. She was fiercely loyal to those she loved. She was always feisty, loving, and true. Family was always at the core of who she was.

Florence married the love of her life, Jean Paul Macho, when she was young. They were blessed to have a son, Paul Stephen. They had a wonderful life of dance, romance and memories until she was suddenly widowed at 30. Her son, Paul, was always the light of Florence's life. She was a fighter and a fearlessly loving mother to Paul who as a young, widowed mother bravely entered the workforce to support her son.

Florence eventually found love again, married Julius Kleiner, building the next chapter of their lives together. Julius formally adopted Paul and they became a family. Family was always at the heart of every decision she made. After retirement Florence and Julius settled in Port Orange Florida where she became an accomplished artist and gardener. They enjoyed many adventures together until his death in 1993.

Of all the treasured moments she spent with friends and family, her golden years were brightened by her close relationship to her two granddaughters; Julie Lynn and Kristen Sue as she lovingly called them. They shared a special bond that brought many memories of joy, love and laughter.

When asked how she could live such a long vibrant life she responded, "dark chocolate, salmon, and a little scotch never hurts". Florence always had a twinkle in her eye, a story to tell, and a lilt in her voice that sounded like laughter. She gave the best hugs and always smelled like Youth Dew. She was a one of a kind, a true treasure to her friends and family.

Florence is survived by her son Paul, daughter in law Marilyn, adoring granddaughters Julie and Kristen, and four great grandchildren: Grace, Chloe, Jonathon and Ryan. She was loved and adored by her nieces, nephews, siblings and all her neighbors…she will be missed beyond words.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday December 1, 2020 at 11 a.m. at Daytona Memorial Park.

There is also a visitation time scheduled for Monday November 30, 2020 at Lohman Funeral Home Port Orange.

Family time: 4 pm

Friends time: 5-7 pm