Mike Klein

Honoring Mike's Memory
by SBMS Classmate Matt Candler

Without a doubt, we are all shocked and saddened at the tragic passing of Mike Klein and his daughter Talia. When I heard the news, and read further reports of Mike and Talia, I was overcome by the majesty of his accomplishments and the great loss for the world. Mike was an exceptional person. It was obvious even when we were both students back at Santa Barbara Middle School. I hadn’t kept in touch with him, and it amazes me at the impact his death has had for me, culminating in the re-learning of an important lesson; that all things are possible.

"Mike in 1984"		"Michael with a view"

To me, Mike Klein symbolizes that incredible balance between a successful business and care for the world around you, areas that I had begun to think were mutually exclusive. In this way, Mike epitomized the hero — an incredible balance of accomplishments and humility, and care for his fellow man. The impact I felt caused me to ask, "how and where can this great loss be replaced?" And my conclusion is that place where we met, so many years ago...at Santa Barbara Middle School. An exceptional learning institution, where tomorrow's heroes are cultivated every day.

Please join my cousin Ethan Heinz and myself, in honoring Mike's Memory by contributing to SBMS, the foundation from which we all have sprung.

Respectfully, Matt Candler

See also: "Memories of Mike" by Former SBMS Headmaster, Kent Ferguson