F.W. Klaus, 62, mental-health aide

Frederick W. Klaus, 62, an executive with several mental-health organizations in the Philadelphia region, died of pancreatic cancer Nov. 6 at his Downingtown home.

Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Klaus graduated from Friends Central School, where, his son Austin said, the 1963 yearbook reported that as a senior he was awarded the Fahler Trophy for "greatest proficiency, leadership and sportsmanship in football."

He graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor's degree in psychology in 1967 and later with a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling.

Mr. Klaus began his career by directing programs for the multiply handicapped at Pennhurst State School and Hospital near Spring City.

In 1970, he became director of specialized programs at the Hall Mercer Community Mental Health/Mental Retardation Center of Pennsylvania Hospital.

In 1971, he went to Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood as director of mental retardation services at the Community Organization for Mental Health and Mental Retardation. From 1980 to 1984, he was its executive director.

In 1984, he moved on to East Mount Airy as executive director of the Northwest Center and from 1992 to 1997 he was vice president of its parent, Northwestern Human Services.

After serving as executive director of Merit Behavioral Care of Pennsylvania, he retired in December 1998.

With the Pennsylvania Community Provider Association, he was a member of the executive committee and its president.

With the Community Behavioral Heath Care Network of Pennsylvania, he was a founder and member of the governing board.

He belonged to the Philadelphia Coalition of Mental Health/Mental Retardation Centers and the Delaware County Advisory Committee for Mental Health/Mental Retardation.

Besides his son, Mr. Klaus is survived by brother, Robert; two nieces; and his former wife, Linda Klaus-Locke.

A memorial service was set for 2 p.m. today at the Mauger-Givnish Funeral Home, 24 Monument Ave., Malvern.