Samuel Kleinman

Samuel D. Kleinman, 92, was born on June 29, 1933, in New York City and passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, in Plattsburgh, New York, following a brief illness.

Sam graduated from the Manhattan School of Aviation Trades, Class of 1950. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he served his country for nearly 30 years as a flight engineer, retiring in 1980 with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. During his distinguished career, he flew six different aircraft, transported world leaders around the globe, and served as a primary flight engineer supporting Secretary of State Henry Kissinger during his Middle East shuttle diplomacy missions. Respected for his professionalism, expertise, and steady leadership, Sam earned the admiration of those who served alongside him and was recognized as an invaluable member of the Air Force's Special Air Mission team. After a military career that took him around the world, Sam chose to make Plattsburgh his home, which he often said was paradise on earth.

Sam was devoted to his family, especially Paulette (Dupuis) Kleinman, his beloved wife of 55 years who preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by his parents, siblings, and three children: daughter Gayann (Kleinman) Pellerin; her twin brother, Ray Kleinman; and daughter Annette Kleinman.

He is survived by his son-in-law, Jay Pellerin; Jay's sister, Deb Marois; and grandson Brad Pellerin, whom he considered family. He will also be deeply missed by his longtime Cumberland Head neighbor, Stan, and his dear friend, Judy.

Sam was an honorable man: kind, decent, and generous to his core. A devoted Catholic, he lived his faith through acts of service and a genuine desire to help others. At age 92, he took great pride in maintaining his home, his independence, and his generally good health. He loved music, especially songs from the 1940s and traditional Hawaiian mele. He enjoyed sharing stories from his travels around the world, including his time stationed in California and Hawaiʻi and his occasional flights aboard Air Force One serving under several presidents.

It was Sam's wish to be cremated and laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Paulette, and daughter, Gayann, at Saint Mary's of the Lake Cemetery on Cumberland Head. Friends and family are invited to honor Sam’s life at a graveside service on Tues July 21 at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any national or local veterans’ organization in honor of Sam's lifelong spirit of service and generosity.