Leroy "Lee" Klein

1924—2018

Lee departed this world, age 93, in the loving arms of his life spouse, Scott Chappell. Lee was a Renaissance man who loved flying for the United States Navy for many years, following his father’s work ethic his whole life in many exciting endeavors. He was the founder of the much beloved Mama Nina’s Restaurant in Yountville, 1976, pioneering Northern Italian Cuisine in the Napa Valley. He co-authored several cookbooks with Lee Bailey, and had just published his autobiography ‘Two Journeys to One Wondrous Life.’ He loved to travel to his homeland (Lincoln Nebraska) and abroad, meeting lifelong friends along the way. He lived a hot and cold life, hot playing cards and a cold Gordon’s gin martini nightly.

Lee was a long time participant with the UCSF Memory and Aging Center on programs studying Alzheimer’s, dementia, and its brain donation program to assist with the scientific research to better understanding of all neurodegenerative diseases.

He leaves behind his beloved spouse of 35 years, Scott, family in Lincoln, Nebraska, and many dear friends in the Bay Area and New Orleans.

At Lee’s request, there will be no memorial services in Napa. Contributions in Lee’s memory may be made to Collabria Care, 414 South Jefferson Street, Napa, CA 94559. All are invited to a memorial service and interment in Lincoln, Nebraska at a later date.

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