William “Roland” Klein passed away on June 20, 2026 at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frieda and William (Willie) Klein. Roland is survived by his brother Gerald (Gloria) Klein, niece Michelle (Dave) Clenin, nephew Brian (Sandy) Klein, three great-nieces – Taylor Clenin, Maggie Klein, and Katie Klein – great-nephew Joshua (Olivia) Clenin, great-great-niece “Emmy”, and many friends. Roland was a Parkway West High School history teacher for 30+ years. He was known by his students as “Mister B+”. Roland loved to travel and spent many of his summers traveling the USA and visiting many countries.
A visitation will be held at Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust St., St. Louis, Missouri on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 1 pm, followed by a memorial service and internment of his ashes at the church at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to Christ Church Cathedral would be greatly appreciated.
He was a fantastic teacher! The best teacher I had at Parkway West.
Insightful with great stories I still recall today.
Mr Klein was my favorite teacher at Parkway West due to both what he taught, how he taught it and how he challenged me. He pushed hard on research, critical thinking and writing skills. His influence still impacts how I approach things to this day and I thank him for that. PWSHS 1975
A very demanding teacher who was also lots of fun. I think he had a lot to do with my strong views about personal responsibility.
Mr. Klein was one of my favorite teachers at Parkway West. To this day, I credit him with my love of history and art. His passion was contagious and the rigor his class changed how I view and explore the world. Class of 1996.
“Uncle Rolly” was my favorite teacher. He inspired, challenged, and taught more than just history. His gorgeous slide show of Chartres Cathedral became a bucket list visit I fulfilled in 2023. Keeping in touch with him over the years led to enjoyable and meaningful conversation even up to a few days before his passing. He is missed.
I was quite saddened to learn of his passing, he was one of my very early educational mentors. He incentivized me to pursue History as a discipline in life, especially after earning Honors in that discipline. Mr. Klein was a true leader and artist at his craft. Perhaps other’s will emulate his outstanding Socratic teaching style, although unlikely it will ever be surpassed. You have left an enduring and most honorable legacy, Mr. Klein.