Byron Klapper continues to be an inspiring figure to those lucky enough to have known him. Although he held many professional titles, Publisher, Editor, Vice president, etc. he was a journalist at heart, always looking for the story in the things he did and the people he met. He had a passion for music, skiing, motorcycles, photography, travel/adventure and for people. He was fascinated with people. Byron’s passions allowed him to see life through a different lens then most. Life presents constant challenges that need to be embraced and taken head on. It was never about winning or losing, but about having the stamina and resourcefulness to succeed and overcome adversity in a spirit that exemplifies your character. These challenges, big or small, gave Byron a rush that was infectious, and sometimes even confusing, to those who had the pleasure to experience it firsthand. I say firsthand because Byron was truly indescribable, but I will give it a shot.
An anecdote which captures Byron’s zest for life, he commuted for many years from his home in New Jersey to work in the financial district of downtown Manhattan, a commute which in summer would often be on his BMW motorcycle wearing a full business suit. And, as you can imagine, there were occasions that his trip home was made in the pouring rain after a 10+ hour workday. He would enter the house soaking wet with a big smile on his face and in a great mood because the mother-nature offered him with an opportunity to prove he can overcome adversity, and he once again rose to the challenge.
A portrait of Byron is not accurate without sharing accounts of his generosity. In addition to his many charities; PBS, Southern Poverty Law Center and Habitat for Humanity. Byron was quick to help family and friends, often discreetly, financially. But he was also generous with his time and wisdom, which for the people around him, was much more valuable. There are countless stories from colleagues, co-workers, friends and family who express gratitude for how Byron helped them rise to a higher level, solve a difficult problem or time in their life, and/or had a life changing adventure with him. Byron saw his ability to help others as just another of life’s many challenges and he did so with a kind of subtle inspiration that helps ignite his passion for life in them.
Byron is succeeded by his wife Karin, daughter Kim, son Lonn (Dana), Brother Larry, Sister Fran, grandchildren Eric, Chloe and Michael and many cousins, nieces and nephews. The loss of Byron should not be mourned but seen as just another of life’s challenges to inspire those who knew him to emulate his passion for life and inspire others to do the same. For those reading this who knew him, this paints a picture that can only be my father, those who didn’t know him can never comprehend what you missed.
