Barry Krelitz

Barry Krelitz, RPh, age 86, beloved husband, father, grandfather, business leader, veteran, and lifelong enthusiast of railroads and classic automobiles, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and generosity.

Barry was born and raised in Minneapolis and spent his entire life in the Twin Cities suburban area, a community he loved deeply and served faithfully throughout his lifetime.

He served as CEO of Krelitz Industries and Twin City Wholesale Drug Co. for 35 years, where his steady guidance, integrity, and deep knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry earned him the respect of colleagues and competitors alike. A registered pharmacist by training, Barry carried his professional expertise with humility and pride throughout his distinguished career.

While serving as CEO, Barry also served in several positions on the Board of the National Wholesale Druggists Association (NWDA) and ultimately as its Chairman. In those roles, he was an integral voice in informing government affairs on important legislation and regulations related to prescription drugs. Through his leadership, he helped advocate for policies that strengthened the integrity, safety, and accessibility of the pharmaceutical supply chain nationwide.

A proud 1962 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, Barry was a Golden Gopher to the core. His commitment to his alma mater never wavered, and he remained an engaged and enthusiastic supporter throughout his life. Demonstrating his deep belief in education and opportunity, Barry created the Cecil A. Krelitz Scholarship Fund to support young pharmacy students in pursuing their education and advancing the profession he loved.

Barry was a passionate patriot who faithfully served his country. He served honorably in the United States Air Force as a Captain in the 934th Airlift Division. His time in uniform reflected the same discipline, dedication, and sense of duty that would define his professional and personal life.

Even in the later chapters of his career, Barry's dedication to pharmacy never slowed. He went on to serve for 18 years with Geritom Medical as their Pharmacy Compliance Liaison, where he continued to mentor colleagues and uphold the highest professional standards.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Barry's passions brought him immense joy. He was a devoted model railroad enthusiast and collector. He also shared his knowledge and enthusiasm as a life member of the Train Collectors Association Lakes and Pines Division and the Twin City Model Railroad Museum. In addition, he was a vintage car collector, taking pride in preserving and showcasing automotive history.

Barry was a founding member of the Century Mortars Club, where he valued fellowship, professional excellence, and lifelong friendships. His generosity, mentorship, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Barry is survived by his first love and devoted wife of nearly 62 years, Annetta; the children of whom he was most proud - Steven, Michael, Lori, and Jeffrey; and his adored grandchildren, Lillian (Kieran), Mosey, Sydney, and Spencer.

Nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his family, whose accomplishments and happiness were his greatest source of pride. Barry's life was defined by commitment - to his family, his profession, his country, his university, and the communities he served. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, curiosity, loyalty, and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cecil A. Krelitz Memorial Fund at the College of Pharmacy at the University of Minnesota or to the Twin City Model Railroad Museum, honoring Barry's lifelong dedication to education and the hobby he loved so dearly.

He will be remembered with love, admiration, and gratitude.

Funeral Service 11:00 AM on FRIDAY at ADATH JESHURUN CONGREGATION 10500 Hillside Ln W., Minnetonka and on zoom at www.hodroffs.com/BarryKrelitz

SHIVA 7:00 PM on Sat. Feb. 28th and Sun. March 1st in the Community Room at 3412 Oak Ridge Road, Minnetonka.