Lawrence Klein

Lawrence (Larry) Klein was born in Chicago on September 17, 1954, Constitution Day as his mother always reminded people. He passed away on April 24, 2024 at the age of 69 following a sudden, serious illness.

Due to developmental disabilities and other health issues, Larry was a resident of the Kankakee State Hospital (which later became the Shapiro Developmental Center) beginning in the 70s, and eventually Good Shepherd Manor, also located in Momence, IL. Larry's life in Kankakee included therapeutic activities, socializing with fellow residents, and participating in Special Olympics. When medical necessity led to the need for extended rehabilitation, Larry relocated to the Chicago area closer to family. Seeking a facility that would provide competent, compassionate care, Larry eventually became a resident of Meadows Sheltered Care in Rolling Meadows.

Since childhood, Larry enjoyed time in the woods and visiting Chicago attractions with his mom and his brother, Tim. Favorites included the Lincoln Park Zoo, the "flower house" (the Lincoln Park Conservatory), and Buckingham Fountain. In addition to regular visits with his mom and brother, Larry loved spending holidays with family, with his grandparents in Kenosha when he was young, then later with his aunt and uncle in Madison, and more recently with his cousins in Arlington Heights. Even as his physical health deteriorated, Larry looked forward to drives through the Cook County Forest Preserves every other week with his brother and celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter with his cousins and their families.

Listening to music brought Larry joy throughout his life, especially The Beatles, The Monkees, Chubby Checker, and other classics from the '60s and '70s. Even when his ability to communicate became increasingly limited, Larry remained outgoing and friendly, always greeting friends and strangers with a cheerful, "Hey buddy!" He loved getting mail, looking through the Sun Times, and always asked for a new watch and wallet for Christmas and birthdays. Larry will be remembered for his good nature, big smile, and love of family.

Larry was preceded in death by his mother Bernice (née Stein) Klein and his aunt Elaine and uncle Irwin Probstein. He is survived by his brother Tim (Nicole) Klein, niece Colleen Klein, nephew Brendan (Kayla) Klein, aunt Betty Hoosline, cousins Barb Jarvis, Janet (Marty) Mickey, Carol (Dave) See, and second cousins Rachel, Hannah, and Joe Mickey.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at Luther Memorial Church of Chicago located at 2500 W. Wilson Ave. Chicago, IL 60625. All are welcome and invited to attend the service and to join the family afterwards for light refreshments and personal remembrances.

The family requests no flowers. For those wishing to honor Larry's memory through a financial gift, donations may be made to Special Olympics Illinois or Luther Memorial Church of Chicago.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.malecandsonsfh.com for the Klein family.