The Marquette University community is mourning the loss of Dennis Klein, a longtime graduate, friend, supporter, and significant benefactor whose generosity helped shape the lives of generations of students, student-athletes, faculty, and researchers. Klein died Tuesday, August 4, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service, philanthropy, and commitment to Marquette University.

Klein earned his degree from Marquette University’s College of Business Administration in 1973. His relationship with the university continued long after graduation, growing into a deep connection marked by friendship, involvement, and philanthropy. He was also a member of Marquette’s Founders Society, reflecting his longstanding dedication to the institution.

Together with his wife, Barbara, Bus Ad ’72, Dennis supported numerous areas of the university. Their philanthropy reached Marquette Athletics, the College of Health Sciences, and the College of Business Administration. Their contributions helped provide scholarships, strengthen academic programs, support student-athletes, and expand opportunities for students.

Marquette President Kimo Ah Yun expressed condolences to the Klein family while recognizing the extraordinary difference Dennis and Barbara made through their generosity. Their support provided opportunities that positively affected generations of students.

Among their notable contributions to Marquette Athletics was a major gift in 2007 to elevate the university’s soccer programs. The Kleins also became longtime supporters of the Men’s Basketball Excellence Fund and provided athletic scholarships through the Blue & Gold Fund.

Dennis’s commitment extended beyond athletics. He and Barbara also invested in the College of Business Administration, helping strengthen educational opportunities for students preparing for careers in business and leadership.

For Marquette Athletics, Dennis was more than a benefactor. He was a passionate supporter and friend who could often be found cheering for the university’s teams. His enthusiasm and generosity became an important part of his connection with student-athletes and the broader Marquette community.

Dennis and Barbara also made a significant contribution to health sciences and neuroscience research by establishing the Barbara and Dennis Klein BioImaging Core Facility within the College of Health Sciences. The facility has provided researchers with advanced technology to study the organization and function of the nervous system and support research into neurological conditions.

The impact of Dennis Klein’s generosity therefore extends far beyond financial contributions. His support helped create scholarships, strengthen educational programs, advance scientific research, and provide student-athletes with opportunities to compete and succeed.

For generations of Marquette students, the opportunities created through Dennis and Barbara Klein’s philanthropy will remain part of their educational journeys. Researchers will continue using resources supported by their generosity, while future students and athletes will benefit from programs and scholarships made possible through their commitment.

Dennis Klein’s legacy at Marquette was built on more than his status as an alumnus. He became a dedicated partner in the university’s mission and demonstrated a lasting belief in the power of education, opportunity, research, and community.

As the Marquette community remembers Dennis, university leaders, students, alumni, faculty, staff, researchers, student-athletes, and friends are reflecting on a man whose generosity will continue to influence the institution for years to come.

His contributions will endure through the people and programs he supported, ensuring that his impact on Marquette University extends well beyond his lifetime.

Thoughts and condolences are extended to Barbara Klein, the Klein family, and everyone who knew and loved Dennis during this difficult time.

May Dennis Klein rest in peace. May his family find comfort in the memories of his life and in knowing that his generosity, friendship, and dedication to Marquette will continue to make a difference for generations to come.