Herb Klein, Former NJ Congressman Who Represented Passaic, Dies At 93

PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — Herb Klein, a former judge and Democratic state representative in Passaic County as well as a U.S. Congressman, has died at the age of 93, according to reports and statements from former colleagues.

Klein, a Rutgers alumnus, recently made a $5 million donation to his alma mater in honor of his late wife — to open the school's first-ever research and clinical institute devoted to the study of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ-9) were among the first to make statements about his legacy, with Pascrell calling it "a very tough day for Passaic."

“Herb Klein was one of a kind. A dedicated public servant, a brilliant lawyer, and my close friend. I will miss his wisdom and I will miss his counsel,” said Pascrell, a fellow Passaic County Democrat. “Herb was a pillar in our community who helped lay the groundwork for the Passaic County Democratic Party to grow and thrive. His experience as congressman was invaluable to me when I ran for his House seat and set up my federal office. And I appreciate his philanthropic dedication to northern New Jersey never ever waned. I always enjoyed when we visited seniors at Daughters of Miriam in Clifton together."

“Tammy and I are incredibly sad to learn of the passing of our dear friend, former Congressman Herb Klein," Murphy said. "From his service to our country in the U.S. Air Force to his tenure as Chairman of the Assembly Democratic Caucus to his time in Congress, Herb was a dedicated public servant who always put his constituents first. Among his achievements, he wrote legislation that established the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and co-authored major banking legislation in Congress. He will be remembered for his devotion to his alma mater, Rutgers University, as well as his contributions to the New Jersey State Association of Jewish Federations and the New Jersey-Israel Commission. Our hearts go out to his family, his wide circle of friends, and all who knew him. He will be sorely missed.”