Kurt W. Klein, claims adjuster and CYO leader

Kurt W. Klein, 51, of Springfield, Delaware County, a claims adjuster and former director for the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Youth Organization Athletic Program, died Wednesday, May 15, at home of complications from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease.

Since 1992, Mr. Klein was employed by Professional Insurance Adjusters in Malvern, and before that by Bristol-Myers Squibb in Princeton. He never retired, said his son, Kurt D. Klein.

But his true passion was the role he played as athletic director for the St. Francis of Assisi CYO program, starting in 1998, his family said.

Under his influence, the program became one of the most respected programs in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Various athletic teams won league championships and team members competed at the highest levels within the CYO, his family said.

One of his favorite sayings described the two things the Klein family typically did on Thanksgiving: "One is eating turkey, and the other is beating Holy Cross," a fierce CYO rival.

Mr. Klein stepped down in 2008.

Born and raised in Southwest Philadelphia, Mr. Klein graduated from West Philadelphia Catholic High School for Boys in 1979 and graduated first in his class from Villanova University in 1983. His bachelor's degree was in political science, his son said.

In 1978, Mr. Klein met the former Patricianne Fair in high school. They were married for 28 years.

Surviving, in addition to his wife and son, are sons Ryan, Erik, and Adam; his mother, Alice R. Klein; a brother; a sister; and nieces and nephews.

A wake will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, 136 Saxer Ave., Springfield, Pa. 19064. A Funeral Mass will be at 10:30. Burial will follow in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield.

Donations may be made to the St. Francis of Assisi CYO Program at the address above.