Clayton Kloesel San Antonio TX Obituary, Death: CPS Energy worker died from electrocution: Clayton Kloesel, a 32-year-old lineman for CPS Energy, tragically lost his life early Tuesday morning, July 23, 2024, while working to repair storm-related power outages on the far Northwest Side of San Antonio. Kloesel, a dedicated and experienced member of the CPS Energy team, was electrocuted while working on a power line in the 8400 block of Percheron Pass in western Bexar County, according to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office.

A married father of three young children, Kloesel is remembered as a skilled and passionate professional who had served the city-owned utility for 11 years. The incident marks the first fatal on-the-job accident at CPS Energy since 2013, when a 54-year-old employee tragically fell from a pole during a training exercise. The shock of Kloesel’s death reverberates through both his immediate family and the wider CPS Energy family, highlighting the inherent dangers faced by those in the utility profession.

CPS Energy issued a statement expressing their profound sorrow over Kloesel’s passing. “We are deeply saddened, and our thoughts are with our teammate’s family, their loved ones, and our CPS Energy family,” the utility said. “Clayton Kloesel’s dedication and service will be remembered by all of us who had the privilege of working with him.”

Just days before the accident, Kloesel had competed in the Texas Lineman’s Rodeo, where he was photographed proudly holding a first-place trophy with fellow CPS workers. This moment of triumph stands in stark contrast to the somber reality of his untimely death. The photo, shared by one of the competition’s sponsors, serves as a poignant reminder of Kloesel’s commitment to his craft and his vibrant spirit.

The Electrical Workers Union, Local 500 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, expressed their grief through a heartfelt social media post. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who knew and worked alongside him,” the union wrote. “He will be remembered for his dedication, hard work, and the camaraderie he brought to our union family. His legacy will continue to inspire us all as we carry on the important work he was so passionate about.”

In the broader context of workplace safety, Kloesel’s death underscores the inherent risks faced by linemen and electrical workers. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), power line installers and repairers are involved in a significant percentage of on-the-job electrocution deaths. In the decade from 2011 to 2021, 1,201 workers lost their lives due to electrocution, with about 8.5% of these fatalities occurring among power line professionals. This statistic highlights the ongoing need for stringent safety measures and awareness in the field.

Kloesel’s death follows a similar tragedy earlier this year when a lineman from Farmers Electric Cooperative in Greenville was also electrocuted while on the job in Rains County. The coincidence of these events serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers that linemen face daily.

Outside of his professional life, Kloesel was an avid angler and hunter, pursuits that reflected his love for the outdoors and spending time with family. An online fundraiser created by a family friend highlights not only his hobbies but also the deep impact of his loss on his family and community. The fundraiser describes Kloesel as a loving husband and father whose death has cast a shadow over those who knew him.

As CPS Energy crews continued to respond to numerous power outages caused by recent storms, the scale of Kloesel’s sacrifice became even more apparent. By early afternoon on Tuesday, the number of customers without power had risen to over 6,100, a testament to the challenging conditions under which Kloesel and his colleagues worked.

A Visitation to honor Kloesel’s life will be held on Friday, July 28, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Heritage Funeral Home located at 123 Main Street, San Antonio. A Memorial Service will follow on Saturday, July 29, at 11:00 AM at the same location. The family invites all who knew Kloesel to join them in celebrating his life and the legacy of dedication and passion he leaves behind.

Clayton Kloesel’s death is a profound loss to his family, friends, and the entire CPS Energy community. His memory will be cherished for his unwavering commitment to his work, his love for his family, and his generous spirit. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of his favorite saying: “Get out there and take some swings.” In his honor, may we all strive to live with the same enthusiasm and dedication that defined his life.