Getting to Know You: Shari Klein

Helping people in need is a way of life for Shari Klein. Shari’s parents were very caring, and she saw them demonstrate this almost daily. “They brought many kids from a local orphanage to our home for visits; it was like our house had revolving doors,” Shari said. “I loved it! Especially since I had no siblings.” She remembers that if someone coughed, her mom would bake and deliver cookies to them.

Her parents’ giving spirits lived on once Shari was grown. “They delivered Meals on Wheels when they were like, eighty!” she laughed.

For Shari, doing for others is not about feeling like a good person. “It’s about what you get back from the relationships you develop,” she explained. “It gives one a good reason to get up in the morning.”

Another reason Shari smiles every day is her family. Her spouse, Jacob, is a retired obstetrician/gynecologist. Their two sons, one daughter, and four grandchildren live in the area, so casual meals and visits happen often.

Shari herself is a retired psychologist. She taught psychology at St. Louis Community College for thirty years, while also running a private practice for part of that time. Her specialty was child psychology.

“God in my life is very big,” said Shari. She has been a member at Ladue Chapel for at least 25 years and has served on the Mission Committee the entire time. “We all have that duty as a human; to be good to your neighbor.” She added that helping others “makes me grateful for everything in my life.”

Shari and Jacob work at the Isaiah Food Pantry every Friday. Shari also joins others in bringing meals to tornado victims at Centennial Church in North St. Louis, where they enjoy fellowship with the grateful recipients.

She is proud that Ladue Chapel does so much mission work. “Ladue Chapel is a microcosm of the world,” she said. “It doesn’t matter where you are on the political spectrum, from ultra-conservative to ultra-liberal and anyplace in between. People at church get along. They treat each other with respect.”

When she’s not involved in mission work, Shari enjoys mahjong and painting. Their home is filled with her art—mostly oils and acrylics. She also loves tending her garden and reading, especially historical fiction.

If you haven’t met Shari, I recommend introducing yourself. You are guaranteed to have a fun and lively conversation.