John Milton Kline ’40

ON FEB. 13, 1990, Jack Kline passed away after several years of deteriorating health. He had carried on cheerfully and had kept in touch with 1940 and Princeton by returning faithfully and as often as he could. One soon realized just how important these occasions were to Jack and the great effort it took for him to be present.

Jack spent a year at Exeter before entering Princeton. His major was English. He rowed on various crews, took part in oratory and debate, and was a member of Triangle. He served as a U.S. Army officer in WWII and remained in the reserve, reaching the rank of colonel. Since 1946 he had been in advertising, and for the last 15 years before retiring was an executive and senior V.P. of Young & Rubicam. Sailing, gardening, and "trying to stay ahead of the children" kept him active.

To Tinton Falls, N.J., community affairs Jack devoted much time and service. His leadership on local school boards was particularly noteworthy. In an editorial tribute to Jack his local newspaper wrote, "Family, friends, and colleagues will remember John M. Kline as a man blessed with extraordinary talents, a unique blend of rare attributes combined with unflagging commitment and a keen sense of fair play."

Surviving are his widow, the former Virginia Diercks; two sons, John D. and Raymond D.; and two daughters, Dr. Prudence P. and Susan S. To them all the Class sends its sympathy and adds that Jack acquired the complete admiration and respect of his 1940 classmates.