Richard Bernard Kleiman

Richard Bernard Kleiman October 18, 1923 - June 13, 2012 Richard Bernard Kleiman, MD, longtime physician in Waco, Texas, passed away peacefully in his home on June 13, 2012, with family by his side. A graveside service will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, June 15, at Rodef Sholom Cemetery. The family will receive guests Friday night, following Shabbat services at Temple Rodef Sholom. Dr. Kleiman was born October 18, 1923, in Eastland, Tex., to Morris Charles Kleiman and Dora Mildred Adams Kleiman. The family moved to Waco in 1926. Dr. Kleiman received his medical degree in 1947 from the University of Texas, Medical Branch in Galveston. After serving a three-year residency in Dallas, followed by service at the base hospital in Tokyo, Japan, during the Korean War, he returned to Waco to set up a practice in 1953. During his career in internal medicine, he served on the hospital staff for both Providence and Hillcrest. He retired from practicing medicine in 2008. He was recognized by his peers, receiving the prestigious Gold Headed Cane award in 2008 for his outstanding humanitarian work in the medical profession. He treasured time on the lake with his fishing buddies, working in the yard, and Mary Thompson's home cookin', but most of all, he loved having his extended family all together. A huge grin on his face, he would always catch his wife's eye and say, "Look what we started!" Dr. Kleiman was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Harold Kleiman, MD, longtime resident of Victoria, TX; and son, Bruce Adams Kleiman. He is survived by his blessed wife of 62 years, Mickey; and devoted children, Maury Kleiman (Sheila), Evelyn Scott, Elisa Gitelson (Richard), and Sara Lea Seery (Brian); daughter-in-law, Gina Kleiman; and sister-in-law, Ann Kahn. He was Poppy to his ten grandchildren and one great granddaughter. He will also be missed by his cousin and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard Kleiman's memory may be sent to Greene Family Camp, 1192 Smith Lane, Bruceville, TX 76630, or any charitable organization that is dear to your heart. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Memorial Guestbook" at www.WilkirsonHatchBailey.com.