Memorial tributes pour in from Pittsburgh soccer community for Gene Klein, Riverhounds, WPIAL Hall of Famer

On Monday, the Pittsburgh soccer community lost one of its most iconic figures, Gene Klein, who passed away at age 71, following a two-plus year battle incurable brain cancer — glioblastoma.

Pittsburgh soccer icon Gene Klein passes away after battle with cancer

Following the news of his passing, many from the Greater Pittsburgh soccer community, which Gene was an indelible presence for more than six decades, shared their condolences on various social media platforms.

Absent Gene Klein, this club simply does not exist today.

Our condolences to Anne, the Klein family, and the extended Western Pennsylvania soccer community. https://t.co/eswgv2nZ06

— Steel Army (@SteelArmy) July 24, 2023

A legend of the game and one of the kindest souls I knew in soccer. Owe so much to him and his work in Pittsburgh. Rest easy, Gene ❤️😥 https://t.co/eNeN4ZU4Vc

— Robbie Mertz (@robbiemertz14) July 24, 2023

Heartbreaking news.

Gene Klein was a Pittsburgh soccer icon, and was an even better person.

Extending my deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those in our community who Gene touched — and there were many. https://t.co/GbdSROBMuA

— John Krysinsky (@JohnKrysinsky) July 24, 2023

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Klein family. Coach Klein helped grow the game we all love in Western PA. He also inspired many people to be better version of theirselves and share in their love for the game. R. I. P. Gene. 💜🧡

— Kaitlyn Moe Rosensteel Scholarship Foundation (@MoeRosensteel) July 25, 2023

Gene’s legacy lives on in the hard work, grit, commitment, and smiles of the thousands of players who have, and will come through The Riverhounds Academy.

We are forever indebted.

We love you, Geno! We know you’ll be analyzing our play from up above. pic.twitter.com/0mZGNHZWnJ

— The Riverhounds Academy (@HoundsAcademy) July 24, 2023

Pittsburgh soccer would not be where it is today without Gene Klein.

Not only that, he was a true gentleman who always took time out of his day for a chat about soccer.

Sending love and best wishes to his family.

RIP Geno. https://t.co/yc0whj3QT1

— Rob Vincent (@RV__17) July 24, 2023

Gene Klein was a massive influence on my coaching career. May this legend of a man rest easy on the most beautiful pitch heaven has to offer. The game of soccer is indebted to his wisdom and influence. Godspeed Geno 🙏🏼 https://t.co/xXnYY6W4CS

— Rob Eldridge (@Lions_CoachE) July 24, 2023

https://t.co/HsVNZjTqjl Longtime Quaker Valley, Riverhounds soccer coach Gene Klein … – https://t.co/PCAyxrMMID https://t.co/9P5lJ8kTH0

— soccertube (@soccertube77) July 25, 2023

 

Rest in peace, Gene. 🖤💛 pic.twitter.com/95qhPBJWsT

— Matt Popchock (@PopchockSays) July 24, 2023

Never met him in person, but loved working with him on the Riverhounds broadcasts with @MattGajtka
A true legend in that market and in American soccer. Thoughts with his family.

— Ryan Rose (@HoopsRadio) July 24, 2023

Massive loss to the community. Gene was always excited to talk shop with us and we all will dearly miss him. https://t.co/S1HE4lFSnZ

— Mon Goals (@mongoals) July 24, 2023

In only a short time knowing Gene, I immediately appreciated his impact on so many in our soccer community, far & wide. Reading & hearing his contributions is a testament to his character & dedication as a coach and educator. My condolences to Anne and their entire family. https://t.co/eeHAmtxI73

— JeffGarner23 (@JeffGarner23) July 24, 2023