Words of Remembrance for Sue Klau

What a joy it was to know and work closely with Sue Klau z"l who passed from this world Thursday morning. For every one of her 89 years, Sue was a bundle of creativity, commitment, and love. Along with her late, beloved husband, Jimmy, they were generous with their time, care, and resources toward every single part of our global Reform Movement.

Our hearts go out to the entire Klau family as we mourn this extraordinary champion of Reform Judaism. Her love of this Movement was planted firmly within in each member of her family especially her son Mike who served for years on the North American Board of the URJ.

It's impossible to remember Sue without celebrating her partnership with Jimmy. Their two names have to be spoken together, like heaven and earth, night and day, Abraham and Sarah; you couldn't really think of one without the other. 

A few years ago, I spent a few days with Sue and Jimmy in Greensboro, one of the communities they called home along with Newport, Rhode Island. During those whirlwind days, there were lots of people to meet, history to learn, and talks to give -- but the highlight of the trip was spending quiet time with Jimmy and Sue.

Jimmy and Sue were active members and supporters of Temple Beth Shalom, our Reform Congregation in San Juan for more than 28 years. Jimmy and Sue were founding members and Jimmy served as president of the congregation from 1973-1975. They sustained the congregation and brought in many rabbinic colleagues to lead services and perform other rabbinic functions, enabling that community to be, and remain, vital.

Debby Shriber, the inspiring former director of Crane Lake Camp and now the executive director of Eisner, Crane Lake, Coleman, George, and Jacobs Camps, had a very close bond with Jimmy, Sue, Mike, and the entire Klau family. At Crane Lake, the Klaus funded the newly renovated health center and contributed to the Beit Am Art Center and the new Rec Hall at Crane Lake. Over the years, many of Sue and Jimmy's grandchildren have been very happy campers at Crane Lake.

Debby remembers a few summers ago when the camp put on Sue's original play "Moses the Mensch." It exemplified Sue's commitment to Jewish creativity and living core Jewish values. As we remember Sue, I can't help but reflect on her life as "Sue the Mensch."

Our sacred literature teaches that there are two deaths: a physical death and the end of one's influence and impact on the world. For many people, the two are simultaneous. But for those whose impact on the world continues after their death, they live on.

Sue Klau's memory and legacy will surely live on in the generations of her family; but they will also just as certainly live on through every part of our Reform Movement.