In Remembrance: Bud Klein, SJMC’s Origami Man

The community will miss long-time University Hospitals St. John Medical Center volunteer Norbert ‘Bud’ Klein, who passed away on July 5.

Bud and his wife of 56 years, Ginger, have been faithful volunteers at the hospital for many years.

Bud’s talents in the Japanese paper-folding art of Origami made him a favorite with all at the hospital and brightened the stays of countless patients and their families.

“Bud was a dedicated volunteer who wore several hats volunteering at St. John’s. His most favorite of all was making and teaching origami to our patients and other volunteers,” remarked Penny Evans, Volunteer Manager UH SJMC. “I wonder how many origami pieces he gave away – even if it wasn’t Valentine’s Day or another holiday, he loved to give us a flower or a heart or something special he had made. He even made origami with one dollar bills. He was an excellent origami maker.

“Bud had a big heart. He would help do whatever was asked of him. He volunteered every Wednesday and Friday along with his wife, Ginger. Bud also enjoyed making our visitors smile when he offered them a special treat off the complimentary pastry cart along with a cup of coffee or tea. He pushed many patients in the halls of St. John Medical Center during his seven years as a transporter. He left us after graciously giving over 2,500 hours volunteer hours. He appreciated and always saw the good in people – that was Bud.”

80 years of age, and a resident of Amherst, Bud passed away Thursday, July 5, at Amherst Manor Nursing Home following a three month battle with cancer. Bud was known as a kind and patient man who cared for others and his family. A Mass of Christian burial was at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Amherst The Rev. Timothy O’Connor officiated. www.hempelfuneralhome.com.