Norman Douglas Kline of Bethesda, Maryland, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Thursday, March 17, 2022 at the age of 91.

Originally from Lynn, Massachusetts, Norman was a graduate of Harvard College and once discharged from the army, studied law at Boston University.  He had a distinguished 44-year career at the Federal Maritime Commission, first as hearing counsel and then as an administrative law judge. In 1992, Norman was appointed the Chief Administrative Law Judge for the Commission, a position he held until his retirement in 2005.

Norman had an encyclopedic knowledge of classical music, a deep appreciation for the law, and a boundless supply of jokes.  He could converse on any topic, from philosophy and history to sports and movies. One of his greatest joys was the fact that his beloved Red Sox, after years of crushing defeats, finally won the World Series. Most of all, he loved his family, particularly spending time with his grandchildren, playing games with them and listening to their stories and music. A man of impeccable honesty, honor, and humor, he will be remembered fondly.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Betty Kline, daughter Sarah Kline (Andrew Schechter), son Samuel Kline (Lauren) and grandchildren Acadia Schechter, Leah Schechter, Hannah Kline, Madeline Kline, and Evan Kline.  He is predeceased by his sister Marilyn Oxman of Clearwater, FL.

Funeral services will take place at Bethesda Jewish Congregation on Monday, March 21 at 1:30 p.m with interment to follow at Gardens of Remembrance in Clarksburg, MD.  Shiva will be observed March 21-23 at 7:30 p.m. at his home in Bethesda.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Norman may be made to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra ( bsomusic.org ) or the Suburban Hospital Foundation ( hopkinsmedicine.org/support/suburban ).