Publisher, Cardinal Authority. Play-by-play announcer, ACC Network. Radio for University of Louisville Radio Network. Director of Sports Ministry, Holy Trinity
Some people are defined by their Hall of Fame career. Some by the family and friendships they built along the way. Some by the lasting mark they left on a university. Kenny Klein did all three-the Triple Crown of Louisville, and no one wore it better.
KK had a gift that can't be taught-he made every single person feel like they were his closest friend. The newest student manager, the most seasoned sportswriter, a young @spidadmitchell finding his footing. Forty years. Hundreds of lives shaped. One institution made immeasurably better because he walked through the door.
We will miss him sadly. The University of Louisville will continue to honor his legacy for as long as there's a Cardinal to cheer. And to his family, and to the many close friends who are understandably grieving right now-you are in our prayers. He was the soul of U of L athletics @GoCards and that never goes away.
Larry
Chair, University of Louisville
Ok one more. I’ve never shown this video of Kenny Klein before but just found it.
Baha Bullies. I had been on job maybe two weeks?
Was filming players going down and then next thing I know here comes KK.
But the best part is him pulling shades and a hat out of his shorts 🤣
Last month in Philadelphia @PGAChampionship in the Media Center, couldn’t believe he was there…but of course he was. He was helping out.
Kenny Klein was THE STANDARD of Sports Information. What a tragic loss to family and friends. We’ll miss him so much, but never forget him.
Thanks to @GWallSID for sharing one of my all-time favorite photos, not only of @RealPitino but of Kenny Klein and all his co-workers in the background. #Priceless
Former U of L AD Vince Tyra on the passing of Kenny Klein: "Kenny’s unexpected passing is a tremendous loss for his family, his countless friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him personally or professionally. It would be hard to find a more loyal and passionate supporter of the University of Louisville, its basketball program, and the people who made it special. Many of Kenny’s closest friendships were built within that circle, and I know those relationships meant the world to him. My heart is with his wife, Donna, and his sons, Alex and Brady, who meant everything to Kenny."
Former U of L AD Tom Jurich on the loss of Kenny Klein: "Kenny Klein was one of the most trusted and valued members of our athletics department. His loyalty, professionalism, and tireless commitment to the University of Louisville helped shape the success of our programs for decades. Kenny never sought recognition for himself; he simply made everyone around him better. His impact on Louisville Athletics is immeasurable, and I will always be grateful for his friendship, incredible loyalty, counsel, and unwavering dedication.”
Kenny Payne on the loss of Kenny Klein: "There are no words to express the magnitude of what Kenny Klein means to Louisville Athletics and the basketball community as a whole. God gave me the pleasure and joy of having him and Donna in my life, both as a kid and as an adult. My family and I will miss our friend deeply, and we pray that all who knew him never let him leave our minds and hearts. We lost a great human being!"
Chris Mack on the loss of Kenny Klein: “I am beyond saddened that the world has lost Kenny Klein. My family and I had been praying daily for a different outcome. Kenny was so genuine and held such a unique excitement for other people’s successes. I’m heartbroken for his wife, Donna, sons, Alex and Brady, their family, and all the friends and colleagues whose lives Kenny touched. My family and I will be praying for peace and understanding through their unimaginable loss."
Rick Pitino on the loss of Kenny Klein: “Kenny Klein is the most selfless person I've met in my lifetime,” said Pitino. “His humility and talents were attributes I admired so much. My heart breaks with the loss of such a great friend and person. My love is with Donna and the Klein family during this very difficult time. RIP Kenny. The Pitinos all love you so much.”
Not speaking for anyone else, but just look at the sheer number of SIDs/writers/TV reporters/and others from all over the country honoring him with kind words tells you who KK was as a professional and a human being. RIP