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Joel Kleinman Obituary
Joel was a lawyer, pilot, golfer, oenophile, and semi-professional Bacchanalian. He was born in the Bronx, and raised in and around New York City. He earned his BA from the University of Virginia and his JD from Georgetown University Law Center. During law school, he won the Lewis Powell Medallion and worked on the House Judiciary Committee's impeachment investigation that led to President Nixon's ultimate resignation. A staunch advocate for civil liberties and a trailblazing antitrust specialist, Joel was partner at Dickstein Shapiro LLP for decades, where he briefed (among others) the landmark Supreme Court case Snyder v. Phelps, 562 U.S. 443 (2010). He remained active in retirement, including by serving as the "Senior Intern" to Chief Judge James E. Boasberg of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
Ever generous with his cavernous collection of wine, he will be remembered by all as the life of whatever room he was in. Most importantly, he will be remembered as a devoted and stalwart friend, husband, and father.
Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life at the Cosmos Club in Washington, DC on June 21 at 3:30 p.m. If you would like to attend, please email Joel's son Sam at [email protected].
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center, through Case Western Reserve University.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joel Kleinman
Dana Choy
January 21, 2026
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Chuck Adams
December 12, 2025
I just today learned of Joel´s passing. I am very sorry for your loss. Joel was one of a kind. I met him a week or so before our first day at GULC as we both looked for a place to live. We lived together that traumatic 1st year of the Paper Chase along with Earl Mettler and Lee Adams. Too many memories to list but I will mention his "Puda Pants". He had these orange chinos from his days at UVa. He wore them almost all the time at the apartment and while studying and had since early college. They had NEVER been cleaned. I was married after 1st year and once when he was staying overnight with my wife and I at our apartment, she saw them and washed them (they were pretty gross at that point). He never forgave her. Sam, in the "small world" category, your college admissions counselor, Leah Adams, is my daughter in law. Once again, very sorry for your loss.
J C Gonzales MPD. Retired
October 21, 2025
Mary, this JC Gonzales. As I was searching for you I found the the obituary on Joel. So sad read that he had past so young. My deepest condolences when a part of your life for 34 years is gone.
Donna Denize
June 19, 2025
Dear Sam,
I'm very sorry for your loss. You father was an extraordinary man who led an equally extraordinary life. Please know that my prayers and thoughts are with you and your dear mother. Sending you love, Donna
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jim reibel
June 9, 2025
A fine obit, Sam, well done!
There is no replacement for Joel. His friendship has been a wonderful blessing in my life. His death creates a void that I will try to fill with recollections of the many good times we shared.
Will keep you both in our prayers as you grieve.
Hank Hankla
June 8, 2025
Joel was a valued friend as are his wife, Mary Pat, and his son, Sam. His intelligence, kindness and generosity left their lasting impression on all of us who were fortunate enough to cross his path, professionally or personally.
Kathie Walvick
June 8, 2025
I will be forever thankful for having Joel in my life -- as an awesome leader in our work environment, as a kind and thoughtful neighbor, and, most of all, as a loving and generous friend who gave me unconditional support when my husband died. Joel's light will always shine!
Carrie Smith
June 7, 2025
The best wine memories ever. May he rest with Dionysus.
Craig Iscoe
June 7, 2025
Mary Pat and Sam have my deepest condolences.
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