I remember Barry Kluger. 
When I heard that he'd passed away I was quite surprised. I'll remember my association with Barry Kluger as long as I live.

On this anniversary of the untimely loss of our wonderful friend and colleague, we are channeling our warmest thoughts, wishes, and prayers to Judy, Eric, Andrew, and Alex, and their families, the lights of his life, whose happiness and well-being were always his first priority. 

Francine and Eric Warner

When I read the New York Times yesterday, it brought back so many memories of my days at the Bronx DA, my car-pooling with Barry up to the Courthouse each day and the shock that Barry was only a few years older than me.  Barry was my sage advisor.  When I was having issues with a superior, Barry sought to protect me.  The words of advice from Barry, I recall often, and have used those same words spoken by Barry with my own sons throughout their lives.

My condolences to Judy and the family,

I was an executive at the MTA during Barry's tenure as IG and aside from being a true gentleman, he was one of the finest and fairest public servants I knew.   His philosophy as IG centered on  ensuring that wrongs were identified and constructively righted, rather than simply subscribing to the "gotcha" approach.  That said, egregious violations were handled appropriately and with dispatch -- all without having to make self-aggrandizing headlines.  Very few left like him.....

So sorry to hear of Barry's passing.I have so many wonderful memories of our times together in the DA'S office. He was really one of the good guys respected and liked by everyone. My condolences to Judy and the boys.

I extend my condolences. Throughout my professional life, I was often confused with barry, as we were both in the news a lot due to our professions. i often said: I am in showbiz but THAT Barry Kluger changes people's lives for the better. May his memory be a blessing.

I’m so sorry to hear of Barry’s passing. He hired me at the Bronx DA’s office when he first became Executive Assistant and was friendly and kind and always checked up on my progress. He was a great mentor for a new attorney. I am sorry for the families loss. Baruch Dayan Ha’emet 

Barry has played a large part in both my personal and professional life. I met him in the early 1970s as his student in religious school, and then as an Assistant District Attorney in 1985, when I worked under his tutelage for three years. We even car pooled together, to and from work (in my beater). He was a fine teacher and a terrific guy, even though he loved the Rangers! He will be MISSED. Best to Judy and the family. Mark Cohen

We are so deeply sorry for your incredible loss. We are so thrilled that Barry existed to bring Alex into Hannah’s life, and therefore ours. As parents of 2 boys we hope to do as well as Barry and Judy. As a family with a glioblastoma patient, we are shattered along with you. 

During Barry's first day as Inspector General he repeatedly mentioned his wife with such pride and respect that I could not help noticing.  I let him know how much I appreciated hearing his comments; I wanted to work for a boss who holds his wife in such high regard.   Little did I realize that we would spend 12 years together, fighting the good fight but also starting each Monday with a golf lesson (in our heads) and a Hebrew lesson  on Friday afternoons.  I am grateful to have had his mentorship and friendship for so many years.

I was very saddened to learn of Barry's passing today.  My condolences to Judy and the entire Kluger family.  I first met Barry during orientation for the Bronx DA back in 1982.  I could go on and on but I'll keep it simple: Barry was a real mensch.  He always was.  May his memory be a blessing.

"Merola's Marauders" are one man down, a space on our bench will forever remain empty.  Barry is a loss that no team can replace - a great teammate, but a better person.  He will remain in my thoughts and prayers forever.

Hello Judy. Marvin and I just learned of your loss. It is an unbelievable loss to you and  the family. Our hearts go out to you. Such a tragedy. 
Sending our love and best wishes 
Laura and Marvin Reiskin. 

Barry was a great boss. He took me back 3 times during my career in the Bronx DA’s and as such gave me the opportunity to grow as a an attorney.  The last time I left he told me “next time you ask to come back make sure you change your last name so you look like a new ADA”.  I will forever be grateful for the opportunities he gave me. Rest In Peace. 

It was a great honor to know Barry over the years as a neighbor and friend.  I always enjoyed our conversations and time together and appreciate those moments even more now. They are great memories. 

I am  saddened to hear of Barry's passing. Barry was my Chief of Staff at the Bronx D.
A.'s Office for many years.

He was  good person, caring, friendly and a hard working professional.Beautiful funeral service today .

I send prayers of sympathy to his wife Judy, sons, and extended family.  

Rest in Peace Barry Job well done🕊


My condolences to Judy and the family.   For years, Barry and I  saw each other at meetings and events.    Those days were always more fun.  I smile as I recall his sense of humor, his energy, and his devotion to his wife and family.  Bridget Brennan

I was saddened to hear of Barry’s passing.  I had the privilege to work with him as a partner in the Construction Fraud Task Force when he was the MTA IG and his support was crucial to the many successes we achieved. Barry was a wonderful friend and mentor.  Sending heartfelt condolences to his entire family.  

The words of Barry’s wife and sons today were incredibly moving and so on point with the amazing person I called my friend/colleague for nearly 40 years. Meeting him through my inspector general position with the NYC Department of Investigation, and his position in the Bronx DA’s office, in the early 80’s, our friendship grew over the years.  Then, a number of years into our friendship, we learned that we had a common friend who was the son of Barry’s parents’ best friends. Barry had taught this common friend his Haftorah.  Attending holiday parties with this common friend brought me the pleasure of seeing Barry’s parents at an annual Chanukah party, where I would hear some good stories about Barry.   I always looked forward to the times Barry and I talked about our respective families (and in particular our kids and grandkids), careers, and our work together when he was the MTA IG and I was the Port Authority Deputy IG.  He always fooled around by blaming me for getting him involved in the Association of Inspectors General, where he served as a Vice President for many years, which added to his workload. But, at the end of the day, Barry loved being involved in the Association, meeting with so many of his IG colleagues from around the country and beyond.  He contributed tremendously to the success of the Association over the last ten plus years. Barry, thank you for honoring me as your friend. I will miss you terribly and you will be missed by so many.  My condolences to the entire Kluger family.

I was so touched by the words spoken today by Judy, Eric, Andrew, and Alex because they so perfectly crystallized the Barry I knew for some 45 years. And the common theme that seemed to drive his work and home lives was his love of people. Never have I met one more devoted to their family; none more supportive of their friends; none a more committed public servant. Condolences to all who had the privilege of knowing Barry. We will miss him enormously.

Barry and I met in Austin, Texas in 2003.   We did not know each other long but became fast friends.  He will be missed.  May his soul rest in peace.

Barry,
  May you rest in peace after your long journey.

  Your legacy of your 3 sons, and your lovng wife, will remain forever. 

 Fondly,
Tim Koller (Staten Island DA)

My deepest sympathy to Judy and the entire Kluger family. Barry was relentless and shrewd in his pursuits as a prosecutor, and loyal and  dedicated to the Office of the Bronx District Attorney as Chief Assistant. Of even greater importance, he was a loving and devoted husband and dad.

Personally it seems like yesterday that I was scooping him up on 79th Street for a ride to work or taking him to Stanley Blacker’s for a new suit. (He was always a dapper DA)

He will be sorely missed. 

I’m proud to have been a contributor to Barry’s 12-year success with the MTA OIG.  He was easy to work with and I valued our break away golf chats, he always spoke fondly of his outings with his sons.  I hope he’s enjoying a round with Ben Hogan and Arnold Palmer at Augusta National Golf Club.

Judy, you and your family have our sincerest sympathy.  We are very sorry to learn of Barry's passing.  Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.  Connie Cosner and Martin Jacobson

Sincerest condolences to Judy and the whole Kluger family. Barry will long be remembered by his friends and colleagues . May you be comforted by the love and support of family and friends. 

Such a sad loss. I knew Barry for a number of years from our work in the IG community. He was always a pleasure to deal with. Barry was a tremendous help and mentor to me when I assumed the role of Executive Director of the Association of Inspectors General. Barry was a Vice President of the Association and Chair of the Finance Committee. He and I worked together in making certain that the Association's finances were in proper order. My condolences to Barry's family and friends. 

Deepest condolences to the Kluger family.   Barry was a joy and honor to work for.   His after-hour patrols of staff offices regularly included loving comments about his wife and children.    He will be missed.

I was so incredibly fortunate to be introduced to Barry when considering going to law school.  What I thought would be a 15 minute informational interview turned into an almost two hour discussion not only about my ambitions, but also his professional experiences, his family and, of all things, the World Series of Poker. The generosity with his time and advice that Barry showed me that day was consistent throughout the seven years I worked for him at the MTAIG and is something I will never forget.  My sincere condolences to the Kluger family. 

Barry was truly one of a kind. I respected him greatly.

Please know that you are never alone when you have the love and support of those around you. My wish for the Kluger family at this time is one of peace and comfort as you celebrate the life of someone very special in your family.


Dear Judy,
Please accept our deep condolences and love. We have so many memories of the times spent in camp and the long meaningful relationship over the years, Barry was your soul mate in every sense and he will be missed by all. From Bayside to Massad - it was a so many years of  great experiences. His was a life of contribution as is yours.

May his memory be a blessing. 

Michael and Barbara Berl

I worked closely with Barry when he was the MTA Inspector General. He had a very strong ethic of right and wrong, but he could also be empathetic when the situation called for it. He was a true professional and a terrific human being. He will be missed. 

Mr. Kruger was one of my Executive Bosses at the Bronx District Attorney's Office and always valued my work as a Crime Victims Advocatr calling me an unsung hero during Happy Land's Trial. Always acknowledged my work and our conversations were always pleasant. Rest in eternal peace always. 

As a young assistant at BXDA, we all heard the saying “Rob hired you but Barry fired you”. But in actuality Barry mentored you.  Those lucky enough to know him, experienced and learned from a caring, thoughtful and hardworking man. 
May there be comfort to Judy and the boys in knowing that Barry was so special and will never be forgotten. 

It was my pleasure working with you. I will miss our chats. Thank you for always believing in me. 



Quick note from a fellow Baysider and former teammate of Barry's (and Alan of course) on the Steve Diamond Hawks.  A legendary left handed slap hitting center fielder who put the youngsters to shame, with his fundamentals and attention to detail on the Queens concrete diamond.  I know fellow Hawks, Metzger, Kagan, Weisbrot and Schechter share in wishing the family comfort during this difficult time.
 
Paul Heller
Oceania Street , 11364


Barry was an irresistible spirit. He loved his family and his faith, loved his work, loved to make new friends. He made this world a better place.  I hope his family takes consolation in this. 

My condolences to the Family. He was a great man and mentor. He will be missed. Judy and Sons so sorry for your loss. 

Barry and I were Friends, Bunkmates and Teammates as teenagers in Camp Massad.
We had fun times together, especially on our Camp Baseball Team. Barry was our Lefty Power Hitter, always batted Third, we could always depend on Barry, Cool and Patient at the Plate always smiling. 
Barry was our First Baseman; Patient always and took care of the right side of our infield.
I played on the left side, left field and third base; I always prayed they hit to Barry on the right side; Cool Barry took care of the Ball; made each play, and always smiled.
I remember I was at the Plate and Barry told me “Take the Pitch” and I swung and missed.
I was from Brooklyn ; I thought you swung at everything;  
Barry called me over, Take the Pitch means you don’t swing; you take and watch the Pitch for Ball Four. Patience. 
I learned much from Barry, be Confident, Play and act like a Mensch, Be Patient and Take the Pitch.
We hardly ever lost a game with Barry.
We all lost a Special Friend who taught us much.
               Joel Wiener


I want to express my deepest condolences to the entire Kluger family. Mr. Kluger, as I always called him even though he said to call him Barry, was a larger than life figure in the Bronx DAs Office. As a junior assistant, the last thing that you wanted was to be called to Barry Kluger‘s office. On the occasions that I was called, he was always fair and supportive. I will always appreciate that. May his soul rest in peace.

My deepest condolences to the family. I worked in the Bronx with Legal Aid for 45 years and had the pleasure of interacting with Barry quite often.  His professionalism and courtesy were always appreciated. He will be missed but never forgotten. 

   James J. Martorano 

As Chief Assistant at the Bronx DA’s office, Barry was truly a mentor. He supported my career there and, when I decided to move on, continued to give kudos, encouragement, advice and support. More importantly, he was a family man who deeply loved his wife, children and extended family. We spent many days talking about our families and sharing stories. My deepest, heartfelt condolences to Judy and the Kluger family. 

Barry was an amazing gentleman with a tremendous heart.  His kindness and thoughtfulness extended beyond the office.  Over the years he became a mentor and a good friend.  Barry always found time to listen and was willing to share his valuable experiences. Barry loved his family and was always so proud of his boys.  Like many others, I mourn his passing and continue to pray for comfort and peace for his family.  We love and miss you Barry. God Bless.

My deepest condolences to the Kluger family. 

My deepest condolences to the Kluger family. Barry was the Chief ADA for the 10 years I was with the Bronx DA’s office under Rob. Barry was tough and shrewd, and I learned many lessons from him. He was always good to me, kept his promises to me and made me feel like the door was always open even after I had left for California. 

My condolences and prayers are with the Kluger family during this time of bereavement. Mr. Kluger stood up for me when no one else did. I will always remember him for his kindness to me. 

I had the pleasure and privilege of knowing, and ultimately working for, Barry for many years.  He was a truly kind and extraordinary person of great enthusiasm and insights.  

In our final conversation he expressed his thankfulness for all the many good things in his life.   

Barry will be deeply missed and his memory forever cherished.

It was an honor to served as Barry’s Chief Investigator during his tenure at the MTAIG. When he was appointed IG I was not sure I would remain as the C/I. Almost immediately Barry assured me that my position was secure and our journey together began. During the next twelve years our so we spent countless hours together, discussing IG business but also sharing personal family stories. He often referred to me as his personal “Mountie” referring to my former State Police days. I will never forget those years and memories. 
Judy and the boys are a special family and my heart is filled with sorrow at their tragic loss. 
God Bless You. 


As I reflect on Barry’s too short life his love of family, his pleasure at Judy’s  accomplishments  and his  support port of his son’s dreams speak to his generosity and humanity. His own professional achievements were many but his relationships with friends and colleagues are why we will honor and miss him. My love to the family. I know Barry will remain forever in your memories and your heart

I am so very sorry to hear this very sad news.  I first met Barry so many years ago when he was doing investigations in the Bronx and he remained a role model throughout his career.   May his memory always be a blessing.


My sincere condolences to the entire Kluger family for your profound loss. Rest In Peace Barry. May his memory be an eternal blessing.  

When I started in the Bronx DA's Office, Barry and I carpooled with several others whose names I withhold to protect the not so innocent.  We formed a close personal and professional bond. Several years later I was lucky to join the Investigations Bureau where he was Deputy Chief.  Later, I became part of the Arson-Economic Crime Bureau.  He then was my Chief.  I learned a great deal from Barry as did many others who worked with and for him.

He will surely be missed by all those he touched.  My deepest condolences to Judy and the entire family.  May all the good memories he left behind be a comfort.

Sending my deepest condolences to Judy, his sons and the Kluger family.

 I worked with Barry at the Bronx DA as well as the MTA Offices of the Inspector General.  While at the DA we interacted quite a bit more than usual since I was in Investigations.  He often joked that he could not understand why I was not afraid when I was called to the 9th Floor.  I was even asked to speak at his sons school for a program.

I gather it is from those varied interactions that when he was tapped for the MTA IG position, he asked me to consider coming on board.  He said to give him a year to get a lay of the land and if I were still interested, I can come and work for him.  And as many know, I left the DA’s office a year later to go and work as his Director of Intelligence.

I am grateful for the lessons I have learned working with and for him.  And I am also thankful for having access to his years of knowledge. 

Again, sending my deepest prayers to Judy and the Kluger family.


Barry was a tremendous supporter of the Association of Inspectors General and a consummate professional, respected in the IG community.  My sympathy goes out to the Kluger family for your loss.  May Barry rest in peace.

A religious man, he loved his family and his work.  Rest in Peace.

Meryl Hughes



My deepest condolences to the Kluger Family. I had the good fortune of working for Barry after he hired me in 2007.  I consider his time at the MTA as a golden age.  With his encouragement, we thought outside the box, and tried new approaches.  Consequently, a lot of very good work was accomplished during his tenure at the MTA.

Barry was smart, caring, supportive, and inclusive. Occasionally,  Barry could be found walking around the office and engaging junior staff to ascertain how they were doing and offer support.  His door was always open.

At my retirement gathering in 2019, I kidded him that his hiring me was one of the best decisions he made.  Truth is, accepting the position he offered was the best decision I ever made.  i will miss him.
 

My sincere condolences to the entire Kluger family. 

When I started at the DA's office, rumor quickly got to my class that Barry was the enforcer and not to be played with. When he came to speak to us he spoke in a raspy whisper which caused us all to lean in to hear him and everyone was terrified. Shortly after I saw him on my way out the building and I said Hi Mr. Kluger and he said its Barry, still raspy but gentle. When my husband died, Barry was very good to me and checked on me to make sure I was ok. I never forgot his kindness, how humane he was. 13 years later, I had the opportunity to sit and talk with him and tell him how grateful I was for all that he had done for me. Give people their flowers while they are here. Thanks again Barry. #BXDAforever

Barry and I were long-term members of the informal unofficial "Chief Assistants Club" We traded stories only other CADAs could tell (and never to our bosses).  We "cherished" all the fun meetings at the Criminal Justice Coordinators Office. I will never miss those meetings but I will always miss Barry. He was much more than a colleague he was a friend who I could confide in .. and he in me.
My thoughts and prayers for Judy and the rest of the family.
Jack Ryan

My sincere condolences to the Kluger family circle and friends. Barry was  my counselor at Camp Massed Beth many yeas ago. He was a gentle and encouraging influence. He will be missed by all who were privileged to know him. 



My sincerest condolences to the Kluger family for your loss. I hope and pray that your happy memories of him may console you in your grief. Rest In Peace, Barry.

Barry and I were long term adversaries, who I was very fond of and greatly respected. His passing greatly impacted me. We were good friends and good adversaries. Barry will be greatly missed.

My deepest condolences to the entire Kluger Family. My thoughts are with you during this time of mourning. 

Barry was a guiding light in my career. There are very few attys that  molded me and were my mentor. Barry was my mentor, teacher and more importantly friend.  He was an excellent attorney but more importantly a great inspiration.  He will be missed.   Stuart and Donna london 

My deepest condolences to Judy and the rest of the Kluger Family. May you find peace in the memories of times and events spent together.
Allison Ross

Sadly, we join our Women in the Courts Committee member Judge Judy Kluger in mourning the loss of her beloved husband Barry.  He was an extraordinary public servant, and we will also always be grateful for the support he gave to Judge Kluger in her endeavors, especially in support of women’s equality and advancement.  Our heartfelt condolences go out to Judge Kluger and the family.

Hon. Betty Weinberg Ellerin, Chair,
Charlotte A. Watson, Executive Director

Mr. Kluger lived in my apartment building. I loved talking to him, whenever we would meet. He would laugh when I would tease him; 
I liked to call him "the hardest working man in New York." He was always so compassionate of me, witty, and smart. He and his dear wife were the loveliest, most caring of people. My heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved family and friends. May peace come. 

My condolences to Judy, the boys and the Kluger family.  Barry was a leader who was generous with his knowledge and his experience.  As a mentor he taught me to always manage with compassion.  
May his memory be for a blessing.

I will remember Barry as a smart and funny man who always had great stories to tell.   My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues.


My sincerest condolences go out to the Kluger family.  Barry was a great leader, boss, and caring individual.  Barry always took the time to reach out and ensure that I had everything I needed to succeed, both during my time at the MTA and when I left.  He was truly a caring person.  Rest in peace Barry....and thank you.

Time will not erase my fond memories of Barry. He was one of my mentors and a shining example of how to be a good man, husband, and father.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his loving family. 

Barry was a true gentleman and dedicated public servant.  It was a privilege working working for him.  My condolences to his family and friends. 

Judy and family I am so very very sorry to hear Barry lost his battle. It was a pleasure working for him. He was a true gentleman and a caring leader. With all my heart my deepest condolences. Mike Raggi. 

OBITUARY

Barry Kluger

May 28, 1949 – January 3, 2022

Riverside Memorial Chapel

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