Michael Lee Klein of Prairie Village passed away peacefully on Aug. 24. He was known for his warmth, curiosity, generosity and sense of humor.
Michael was born on Feb. 23, 1946, at University of Kansas Medical Center to Frances Gershon and Elvin Klein. He was a beloved brother to Bari Freiden and Philip Klein.
After attending Shawnee Mission East High School, Michael received his finance degree from the Wharton School, part of the University of Pennsylvania. He then earned his law degree, graduating summa cum laude, from the University of Michigan Law School. Following his education, he returned home to help lead the family business, US Toy/Constructive Playthings. Later becoming CEO and president.
Michael’s life was marked by a deep devotion to his work, his community, and the values of creativity, education and Jewish Life. His leadership and imaginative spirit helped shape generations of innovative learning environments, ensuring that children across the country and around the world had access to high-quality early childhood educational materials. He believed deeply in the power of play, curiosity and hands-on discovery.
Michael also developed a lifelong passion for collecting extraordinary ceremonial Judaica, assembling one of the largest collections in the world. The collection reflected his profound love for Jewish history, ritual and culture. To Michael, the Klein Collection, housed at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah in Overland Park, Kansas, was far more than a display of beautiful objects – it was a living testament to Jewish community and continuity. Each piece carried its own story. Michael believed strongly in safeguarding these cultural treasures so their meaning and history could continue to inspire future generations. The Klein Collection stands as a reflection of his enduring commitment to heritage, identity and Jewish education.
Michael served as president and active leader of both Shalom Geriatric Center and Village Shalom because he believed deeply in caring for elders with dignity, respect and love. Through his lifelong dedication, generosity, vision and compassion, he helped strengthen these important community institutions. His leadership contributed significantly to the development of the Village Shalom campus, where he also shared his love of Judaica through rotating exhibits from his collection for residents and visitors to enjoy.
His involvement in the Kansas City community also included serving as president of the Epsten Gallery, trustee of the Frances Gershon Foundation, trustee of the Flo Harris Foundation, board member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, board member of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City, and trustee of Menorah Medical Center.
Michael was an avid supporter of the arts and found great joy in attending opera, theater, musicals, museums and symphony performances around the world. He loved sharing these experiences with family and friends, often inviting loved ones to performances, special trips and memorable dinners along the way. He especially treasured creating lasting memories with those he loved while exploring new places, restaurants and cultural experiences.
Michael is survived by his loving sister, Bari Freiden (Floyd); his brother, Philip Klein; his partner, Michael Ballantyne; his nephews, Jonathan (Rebecca) and Seth (Robyn); and their children, Alexandra, Jonah, Dylan, Danielle and Kara.
A funeral service was held on Aug. 27 at B’nai Jehudah, followed by burial at Rose Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Klein Collection at the Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah or to a charity of one’s choice.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel.com.