Libby Klein's Obituary
Libby Klein passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 26, 2023. Born in a refugee
camp in Kassel, Germany on June 7, 1948, Libby, her parents Rubin and Esther Lewitan (both
Holocaust survivors), and her two sisters, Elizabeth Kushner and Arlene Solomon, came to America
to escape the ravages of Post-World War 2 Europe. Arriving in New York City, Libby was raised in
Brooklyn and later attended Kingsborough Community College with a bachelor’s degree in teaching
and graduated from Hunter College with a master’s degree in art. After this time, Libby traveled the
world visiting Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. After her return to NYC, Libby met and was married
to David Klein in Manhattan and soon thereafter moved to Miami, FL in the 1970s. It was also during
this time that Libby was diagnosed with diabetes, an illness she struggled against and held a strong
influence on her for the remainder of her life.
Once in Miami, Libby entered the real estate industry and soon became a rising star working for
Stadler and later on Esslinger Woolten Maxwell (EWM) and Berkshire Hathaway. Libby later
partnered with Elena Kemper and created their own group that brought in many sales and awards.
During her time with EWM, Libby obtained many accolades including being a member of the
Chairman’s Club Diamond equaling the top one half of one percent nationally and was number 1 in
the number of closed sales in the Pinecrest office since 1998 until her retirement. Libby prided
herself on her work but also in the satisfaction of bringing clients to their dream homes.
In 1985, Libby and David decided to adopt a baby boy naming him Matthew Adam Klein. Three
years later, they adopted a second son, naming him Lance Ian Klein. Pursuant to a divorce in the
1990s, Libby raised both boys herself while also providing the means for weekly visits with their
father in Miami Beach.
In Libby’s personal time, her later life was made golden by spending time with her life partner of
nearly 30 years, Robert Klein (no relation) dancing on weekends and vacationing together. Libby
was very well known for her dancing and would mesmerize audiences whether at the Parents
Without Partners, Elk’s Lodge, or Century Village dance floors. She also loved gardening and
creating works of art. Libby’s penchant for expression through art usually manifested in the form of
collages made from family photos and bead and sequins work applied to various statues.
Libby is survived by her sisters, Arlene and Elizabeth, life partner Robert, sons Matthew and Lance,
beloved nephews Michael and Niel, niece Alyssa, and grandchildren Makenzie and Kai. She was
predeceased by her ex-husband, David.
The family is grateful to Don Van Orsdel and Van Orsdel Funeral & Cremation Services for their swift
and compassionate assistance with her memorial.
To honor Libby’s memory, find the things you enjoy in life that make you happy, that enrich yourself
and others, and embrace them just as she did.
What’s your fondest memory of Libby?
What’s a lesson you learned from Libby?
Share a story where Libby's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Libby you’ll never forget.
How did Libby make you smile?