Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
William Klein Obituary
William Cullen Klein was tragically killed in an accident in China on May 18, 2012.
The beloved 19 year old son of Dr. Debra Heitzman and Dr. William and Sharon Klein, he is also survived by his sisters, Emily and Camille Klein, and Kayla, and his brother, Noah Stevens.
He was studying at the Foreign Language University in Tianjin, China, affiliated with Florida State University.
Born in Hollywood, FL, he moved with his family to Melbourne Beach where he attended Gemini Elementary, Hoover Middle, and Melbourne High School, from which he graduated in 2010 with his AA degree after only 3 years. He would have graduated in August from FSU with dual Majors in Spanish and Chinese, and Minors in French and Arabic. He had been awarded a prestigious two years Master's Degree fellowship at the same Tianjin University.
A practicing Roman Catholic, Cullen was the personification of active Christianity. He had attended White House Jesuit Retreat in St. Louis, MO, and recently returned from a mission trip to Haiti with his father and brother, Noah. He lived a vision of being his very best, striving to excel beyond normal boundaries, which encouraged all he touched in life to likewise. Quick with a smile, he shared God's love in every aspect of his life.
His passing leaves a devastated family and hundreds of hurting friends with memories of how he touched their lives very deeply. They will keep him alive by sharing Christ's love that Cullen showed every moment of every day with his smile and actions.
A Funeral Mass celebrating his life, will be at 2:00, Saturday, June 2 at Holy Name of Jesus Church in Indialantic, with Revds. Tony Welle and Joseph Nolan concelebrating.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial scholarship fund has been established through Florida State University International Programs. Donations may be made to: FSU Foundation, with a notation: "William Cullen Klein Memorial Fund": FSU International Programs, William Cullen Klein Memorial Fund, 282 Champions Way, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2420.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Klein
Luis
June 28, 2012
Wow, it is almost unbelievable, I didn't meet you in person, but I saw your thoughts almost daily, and sure you were an amazing person, I don't know why this things happen, but sure for you, will be for good.
Rest young good man.
Chris Gran
June 24, 2012
Call it stupid, but feeling grief for someone you never knew, is humanity.
I heard about you, and your 'quest'to make the whole world smile. It is so inspiringing. A loss is always hard.
Forever remembered, rest in paradise <3
Nicole Serrano
June 13, 2012
Even though I never got to meet you personally, the times I did got to talk to you where amazing! You were such a good, intelligent, adorable person... Love you forever Cullen <3
Carrie Frazer
June 10, 2012
God is light,in him there is no darkness at all. I have never met your son but my son is a part of the FSU study abroad in China. We are so sorry for your loss of Cullen. As I have seen he has touch some many in is short life. Cullen is now the newest flower in Gods garden. My God be with you.
Patty Shrimpton
June 8, 2012
Although I have never met your son, my son Thomas was awarded the graduate fellowship to TFSU China along with Cullen from FSU this semester and was eager to study abroad with your son. This pleased us so much to know he would be with such a accomplished student. My son's words of admiration of your son reveals the integrity and character of a friend lost much too young. He will be greatly missed by many. Words are inadequate at this time of your valuable loss that I can not even fathom. May God bless your families
Melissa/Juan Mundo-Febles
June 5, 2012
May the Lord continue to hold you all up, we continue to pray for you guys and your family. God Bless you guys!
June 4, 2012
No words can describe the loss you have endured. We know and are here for you and your family. Harriet and Alan Fine and the Fine family
Bev Goldner
June 4, 2012
Cullen, It was many years ago now that you walked into my home in Indialantic for my daughter Mikayla's birthday.I know she felt then and continued to feel tremendous respect and love for you as did I from the first time I met you. You were so easy going, amazingly respectful and funny, even when you made fun of my English accent I thought you were a special young man, destined to be whatever you chose to be and that you would make that choice with a wisdom far beyond your years.
When we moved away from Indialantic you continued to keep in touch with Mikayla and I was lucky enough to always be able to catch up with you through her. You were a shining light in so many people's lives and you will live in our hearts always as such. I cannot begin to imagine the devastation your family feels at this time and Mikayla and I send our heartfelt condolences to all your loved ones. Please know that you were and are loved greatly by more people than you know and will always live on in our hearts.
The world is a sadder place for we have lost a unique and amazing person.
RIP...we love you.
Hoskovec
June 4, 2012
To members of the Cullen Klein family and his many friends:
I was very distressed to receive word of the loss to our community of one of the brightest young people that I had the pleasure of knowing in many years. Cullen was a good kid, and a very special kid. He always asked the question that everyone was too scared to ask. Kaitlyn can tell everyone, that he had a special place in both of our hearts. My initial recollections fondly go back to Grace Lutheran Preschool that Cullen attended with our daughter, Kaitlyn. Even at that tender age, Cullen was an extraordinary child. While at Gemini and later at Hoover, he continued to be an outstanding scholar. When our paths crossed, Cullen would always stretch out his hand and ask, “How's the Town running Mr. H.?� Kaitlyn would be writing this herself; however, she is doing the same program with FSU in Russia this summer. I had a wonderful 45-minute Skype session with Kaitlyn last Saturday, and then she called me back inconsolable regarding the loss of Cullen. Kaitlyn reminded me that she ran into Cullen on campus just before they both started their international exploits, they waved at each other but didn't get to talk to each other. They had a kinship for 16 years, there were a group of them that started out in the world, and now we have lost our first and one of our young brightest stars. We know he will not be the last; just pray that there is a great deal of time to pass before we need to visit this topic again with their generation. I can only imagine the feelings of loss that everyone is experiencing. If you are familiar with the Broadway production of WICKED, I would refer everyone to the song For Good; that speaks to the impact that these young people have had on one another. (I would encourage all to see the You Tube of the song.) While it is true that Cullen will be missed, it is also true his impact on lives will live on always. This world needs MORE Cullens not fewer, but his curiosity and desire to explore is what set such a special kid apart.---The Hoskovec Family
Diana Taylor
June 3, 2012
Dear Dr. Klein,
We were so sad to hear about the sad news about your son. May the Lord hold you and your family in His right hand and comfort you. The good news is that you will see him again and he will show you around heaven. Bill and Diana Taylor
Gretchen Kamps
June 3, 2012
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 -- Our deepest sympathies go out to you all at this difficult time. We hope you are able to find peace in the days ahead.
Josh and Gretchen Kamps
Cullen Klein
Troy DiPasquale
June 3, 2012
i miss you bro, we all do. you meant a lot more to me than i probably told you, but i think maybe you knew. always a great smile, and that's how everyone is gonna remember you.
Marilyn & Dennis Spurlock
June 3, 2012
Our thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with you. Your beautiful memories of Cullen will keep his light shining brightly.
Dawn Balter
June 2, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. He will be greatly missed by all.
June 2, 2012
Dear Dr. Deb, I once received a card that brought much comfort to me, and in part, it says "We can never be separated from those we love because God leaves us with memories to hold and love that doesn't pass away." Our prayers and thoughts are always with you. God grant you comfort and peace. Bill and Kathy Brewer
Mary Fishburne
June 2, 2012
Cullen, you are my first true love and forever you will be in my heart. I know your loving light is shining through me and with the Lord, you as my guardian angel will continue on guiding me to all the places around the world that we wish to go and see. I love you so much William Cullen Klein and I can't wait to see you again someday. Forever and Always, BamBam & Pebbles <3
June 1, 2012
Dr Klein
It's hard to find anything to say at this hard time, but my heart and prayers are with you and the family. Your son was a great young man, and one of the finest students I ever had. He will always be remembered..
Sawsan Awad..
Vickie Benson
June 1, 2012
Dr. Klein & family, we are very sad to hear of this loss. Our thoughts and sympathy to you and your family. Vickie & Paul Benson
Rita Mogan
June 1, 2012
God be with you and your family at this time of your loss.
Rita and Cindy Mogan
June 1, 2012
Dr Klein, we are sadden to hear of your loss. Our prayers will be with you and your family. John, Lucretia and Jedi Millar
June 1, 2012
Dr Debb and family
My thoughts and prayers are with you ;and it is such a loss to the family.My sincere sympathy/
Agnes Brewer
Michele White
June 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this devastating period. May you find peace and comfort in your precious memories of Cullen.
Lisa Tseka
June 1, 2012
We lost our daughter at the same age as your son. The blessings of the memmories of having him for 19 years and the promise of being with him again will keep you going. Our prayers are with you.
e roper
June 1, 2012
I never got the chance to meet you, but your father spoke highly of you, often. I feel it was my loss to never have been in your presence... God bless
Beverly Brimley (Jamie Klein's sister)
June 1, 2012
We are praying for your sweet family during this difficult time. Your posts have lifted us all up as you have consistently praised God for his blessings of Cullen's life.
Matt Blanton
June 1, 2012
To a cousin I'm not sure I ever even met. I have heard such great things about you--even before your passing. I look forward to meeting you one day in Heaven. I know you have found happiness and bliss, but I pray for those you left behind, as you were loved deeply by many.
Allison Sproul
June 1, 2012
Cullen was my youngest teacher and taught me more than all of the others combined. May he continue to be an inspiration for his friends and family for many years to come.
Donald Brewer
June 1, 2012
Dr Debb,
Mary & I were truly saddened to hear of your heartbreaking loss. Relevant words are hard to come by, but know that you and your family are in our thoughts.
With sympathy,
Donnie Brewer
Brian Low
June 1, 2012
Sometimes there just aren't any answers; I'm at a loss for words…there is nothing anyone can say to comfort your family Debbie. I do know that our Lord sees all of our tears, and hears our prayers for you all. Those of us who have come to know you and your family share your pain. Through our faith in Him that loves us…comfort and peace will come in time.
Susanne Ong
June 1, 2012
Forever in our hearts, forever in our life.
Paige and Susan Littlejohn
June 1, 2012
Always missed. Always Loved. Cullen went from my best friend, to my guardian angel. And i couldn't ask for a better one.
June 1, 2012
Our condolences go out to Cullen's family. We will keep you in our prayers. The McCullough Family -Melbourne, FL
Denise Gimlin
June 1, 2012
There are no words for the comfort you need with the grief you must bear, try to remember the good times, the beautiful smile, his laugh and all the joy he brought to so many. Take your comfort in the knowledge of knowing he rests in the arms of Jesus. Our life is a brief moment in time and eternity will be spent with Cullen
Lauren Marie
June 1, 2012
:\ there are no words. I'm just frozen.
Joyce Werner
May 31, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about Cullen. Prayers are extended to your family. I am glad my mom had the opportunity to meet him.
May 31, 2012
I am so sorry for your sudden loss of someone so dear and presious to you .Barbara Eddings, Titusville, Fl
Samuel Effron
May 31, 2012
The world that revolves around me seems to be quiet after your passing. I was hoping to meet you one day in person because you're an amazing, talented and few other choice of words I would reserve for you. You made me smile when I chatted with you on Whatsapp. You're good and fast at making friends, you're nice, and I would miss all of that. A soul like you will never be forgotten, you'll always be remembered. I'll see you on the other side of the world. Hope you're waiting there for all of us. I will always love you William Cullen Klein.
May 31, 2012
"I am sorry for your loss. I was fortunite enough to meet Cullen when my daughter Kyra Skype'd from China. He was a wonderful young man. God Bless him and your family". Jim Faulkner ( Riverview, Fl)
Rogier Duiven
May 31, 2012
I will never forget you Cullen. You will always be very special to me. I miss you, but we will meet again. I'm sure.
Becky & John Sayles
May 31, 2012
Ever since we heard about Cullen, our thoughts and prayers have been with each and everyone of you.
Julie Fortier
May 31, 2012
I am so truly sorry to hear about your son. I know I am a stranger, having never met him nor any of you, but he was in China along with my son Jeff Ethier who is shocked and upset over the loss of your son. My heart goes out to all of you, his family & friends. And may God comfort and give you strength during this sad time. My prayers are with you all.
Julie Fortier
Kathie Eberhart
May 31, 2012
My heartfelt condolences go out to Cullen's family and friends. I am deeply sorry for your loss and will continue to pray that you may somehow find peace. What an honorable and gracious young man and we will hold him dear to our hearts. God bless you all.
Penny Greco
May 31, 2012
You will be greatly missed.
Lenny Len
May 31, 2012
Dear Cullen,
I am saddened by the news
that has been weighing heavy on my heart
since hearing of your passing.
I was suppose to fly to Florida to pay my respects
and close a chapter of my life that we've created,
but I realized today that you are still alive to me.
Our relationship has been one of words and art and ambition
and those things are alive now
and will survive us both.
I cannot bare to see you any other way.
Your father and mother has been with you
from the time you were born,
and those memories comfort them this day.
Your friends have been with you, through thick and thin,
through every challenge, competition and obstacle,
and win or lose, those special memories comfort them this day.
Our relationship has been one of words and art and ambition
and those things are alive now and will survive us both,
and those things comfort me this day.
I thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for comforting you.
I love you and miss you.
Thank you for being a part of my life.
Lenny
Showing 1 - 44 of 44 results
Make a Donation
in William Klein's name
Memorial Events
for William Klein
How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor William Klein's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
