Dr. Thomas E. Klein

Thomas Edward Klein, MD age 89, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. Dr Klein was born in Grand Rapids, MI to Sidney and Beatrice Klein on October 5, 1934. He graduated from Central Highschool in 1952 and attended Ferris State University, School of Pharmacy graduating in 1956. He went on to Wayne State University, College of Medicine, graduating in 1960. He Interned and completed his Residency in OB/GYN at Butterworth Hospital in 1964. 

Dr. Klein practiced medicine from 1964-1997 in Grand Rapids, delivering over 10,000 babies during that time. He opened a solo practice in 1964 and four years later started West Michigan OB/GYN until his retirement. Dr. Klein was very involved in the medical community serving as Chairman of the Department of Women’s Health, Chairman of the Professional Standards Committee (Butterworth Hospital), Associate Clinical Professor, Michigan State University for both graduate and undergraduate students, and President of West Michigan OB/GYN for many years. In his retirement years, he served in many positions on the Board of Naples Heritage GCC, Naples, Florida.

Dr. Klein was preceded in death by his parents Sidney and Beatrice Klein, and brother Norman Klein. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend Shirley, his High school sweetheart, married August 25, 1956. He is also survived by his four children: Jeffery, Kathryn, Laura McCray (Kevin), and Thomas Eric (Stephanie). Very special to his life were his grandchildren: Robbie Estes, Sophia Hufford (Ryan), Thomas (Alex), Ryan, and Tyler Klein, Killian McCray and Jaden McCray. Also survived by a nephew and niece. 

Tom was blessed to have wonderful friends and colleagues throughout his life. He loved the game of golf and was proud of his 2 “Hole-in-One” at Blythefield GCC. He loved to fish with his children and grandchildren at their cottage on Silver Lake in Rockford, MI and take his wife on amazing adventures traveling around the world. 

Many years after his retirement from medicine he would be enthusiastically greeted by former patients who expressed their gratitude for the amazing care that he provided. No one was a stranger to him. He took the time to get to know everyone he met, often asking “where are your from, where did you go to school and what are you pursuing in life?” He made everyone feel special and appreciated. He will always be remembered for his ability to make up a song and sing it, his never-ending wit, contagious laughter, and warm smile.

A celebration of his life will take place on November 25, 2023, at St. Marks Episcopal Church in downtown Grand Rapids at 2pm. The family will be greeting at the church from 1pm-2pm prior to the service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park and the Humane Society of West Michigan, Grand Rapids. 

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