A Eulogy in Louisville
The city of Louisville gathered to say goodbye to Kenny Klein, the longtime sports information director at the University of Louisville, who passed away at the age of 66. The service was marked by a deeply emotional eulogy delivered by Rick Pitino, the university’s celebrated basketball coach, who described Klein as the most special person he has ever met.
Klein’s career spanned almost four decades, during which he became the public face of Cardinals athletics and was instrumental in shaping the university’s sports narrative. He first stepped into the role in 1983, making him the youngest person ever to hold that position at a Division I football institution, a testament to his early talent and dedication.
Over the course of 16 years, Klein served not only as an aide but also as a close confidant to Pitino, accompanying him to St. John’s University in New York City after the coach’s retirement. Their partnership, forged in the early 1990s, saw Klein help steer the program’s communications strategy and cement its national profile.
A Partnership Remembered
Reflecting on their two years together in New York, Pitino recalled how inseparable the two had become, sharing both professional challenges and personal milestones. Klein’s guidance was credited with helping Pitino navigate the transition from Louisville to St. John’s, a move that underscored the depth of their professional and personal bond.
Beyond his work with Pitino, Klein’s influence extended to countless student‑athletes and staff who benefited from his mentorship and his ability to convey the spirit of Cardinals athletics to a broader audience. His legacy lives on in the programs and relationships he helped build.