Burton G. Klein passed away peacefully on May 30, 2023, at the age of 96 at home surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Mary Klein, his brother, Dr. Martin Klein (Jody), his brother and sister in law, Donald and Jeri Klein, his brother William Klein (Sheryn), and his sister in law Cheryl. Burton is survived by his wife of 62.5 years, Jerri, his daughter Carolyn Wooton (Michael), his son, Stephen, grandchildren Ryan Aldridge (Maddie) and Mason Wooton, great grandson Carter Aldridge, and his brother, Dr. Alan James Klein.
Burton was born on April 5, 1927 in Brooklyn, N.Y. He graduated high school in Kansas City, Missouri. Burton served in the 8th Air Force during the occupation of Okinawa. Upon discharge, he came to New Orleans to join his brother Martin at Tulane University. While at Tulane Law School, he was elected to Tulane Moot Court. He became associated with Dymond (Irvin) and Cassibry (Judge Fred), both of whom became life long friends. Burton became an assistant District Attorney under Richard Dowling and later Jim Garrison whose office he resigned from over a disagreement about Garrison’s prosecution of Clay Shaw. From there he practiced law with his brother Donald and remained in active practice for 67 years. Burton thought he might best be remembered for his four-year legal battle with his neighbor, Al Copeland over his Christmas light display. Burton won the case, but they later reconciled, the lights returned to the neighborhood, and they remained friends until Mr. Copeland’s death.
Burton enjoyed golfing, and he was a member of the old Lakewood Country Club. He would often brag that he shot a 72 on the Blue Monster in Miami, but would add with a smile, “I did better on the back nine!” A lifetime member of Temple Sinai and 60-year member of the Sam Dyfus Masonic Lodge, Burt’s greatest life accomplishment and joy came from his beautiful relationship with his family whom he spent countless hours entertaining. The family would like to thank Dr. Alan Yager, his nurse, Arlene, and the staff of Notre Dame Hospice.
A visitation will be held at Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. beginning at 1:30 pm on Friday, June 2, 2023 followed by a private graveside service.
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