I am sad to share the news that John W. Kluge has just passed away at the age of 95. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife Tussi, his children and wider family. John has been a stalwart friend, confidante and benefactor of the EastWest Institute, including his making a decisive gift nearly a decade ago that made it possible for us to create a meaningful Endowment. John received EWI’s Corporate Statesman Award (at a dinner together with an award to his lifetime friend David Rockefeller, Sr. – the event was led by his friends Don Kendall, Sr. and John Whitehead). John chaired a number of our annual Awards Dinners and introduced us to a wide swath of important people who have helped the Institute substantively and financially. He served as a trusted confidante and advisor to me for many years.

John was particularly proud that without his intervention, his son John Jr., secured a position at EWI several years ago and has worked himself up to being an indispensable member of the team. The last time I was with John, Sr. in Palm Beach earlier this year, we discussed how proud he was to see his son care so much about changing the world and his pride that this was being done at the EastWest Institute.

John W. Kluge is one of those friends and colleagues who does not come into our lives very often. We will miss him greatly. His legacy and commitment will be carried within us.

Letters or cards can be sent to Gail Manley who will forward them to Tussi, John and the family. Click here to read the official obituary from the New York Times.

Gail Manley
EWI New York Center
11 East 26th Street
20th Floor
New York, NY. 10010