It was all part of the breathtaking journey of a woman who was born in Philadelphia, raised in the small rural community of Hammonton, NJ ("The Blueberry Capital of the World") and went on to become one of the earliest women graduates of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Anne started her career in marketing at a predecessor of SEPTA, the Southeast Pensylvania Transportation Authority. In January 1982, she founded Anne Klein & Associates. Three years later, her husband, attorney Gerhart "Jerry" Klein joined the firm as Executive Vice President, general counsel and chief technology officer. Together, Anne and Jerry built a renowned agency (later rebranded as AKCG) focused on expert strategic planning, crisis and issues communications and community outreach.
Anne was part of a relatively small but fiercely determined generation of women executives who succeeded against all odds, sometimes, it seemed, through sheer force of will. She was a keen business competitor but also a generous mentor who shared her time, treasure and talent with countless others, particularly other women who sought her help and guidance.
Anne was savvy, funny, shrewd, worldly, perceptive and a quick study. She did not suffer fools gladly, nor did she mince words. But if she detected a spark of creativity or talent in you, along with the willingness to plow ahead, she was on your side and would help you. And, make no mistake about it, she was the kind of person you definately wanted on your side.
Over the years, Anne collected many accolades including induction into the Philadelphia Public Relations Hall of Fame and Philadelphia Business Journal's Woman of Distinction honor as well as being named one of New Jersey's 50 Best Women in Business. She also served on the board of numerous charitable organizations and other groups. But none of this made Anne the least bit presumptuous or vain. She remained accessible to all -- curious, welcoming, engaging and always ready to enjoy life with family, friends and colleagues. And we fondly remember so many fun outings with Anne and Jerry to area attractions, restaurants, musical performances, theater, etc.
One of Anne's proudest and most recent accomplishments was the publication of her book "On the Cusp: The Women of Penn '64", which contains the stories of 19 women who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964. As was characteristic of Anne, she chose to shine the light not on herself, but on others who made the journey along with her.
Doubtless, what shined through with Anne were the values instilled in her by her parents -- part of her Italian American heritage and the close knit community that nurtured her. Anne Klein did it all -- and she did it con brio!
Relatives and friends are invited to attended Anne’s visitation, Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 9:30-10:45am at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Parish-St. Joseph Church, corner of French & Third Street Hammonton, NJ 08037. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am. Burial will be held privately.
In kind remembrance of Anne, donations may be made in her memory to CurePSP at https://www.psp.org/.
To leave a condolence, please visit marinellafuneralhome.com
No comments:
Post a Comment