Honoring Len Keilin at 80

A Legacy That Still Grows

As Len Keilin prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday (April 23), we pause to honor a man whose leadership helped shape Beber Camp during some of its most formative years. Len served as Beber’s second director, beginning in the fall of 1979 and spending 14 summers in Mukwonago between 1980 and 1993.

When asked about his strongest memories, Len immediately thought of Friday nights and the blessings over the campers and creating moments of connection that brought the entire camp community together. He also spoke fondly of the people he worked alongside, including Ron and Cheryl Kaplan and Goldie Keilin. Of special significance was watching his own children grow up at camp year after year.

At the heart of Len’s philosophy was helping kids discover who they are. He believed camp gives children lifelong friendships and the confidence that comes from learning to function on their own. He often saw that the campers who worked through homesickness became some of the most connected, because they had accomplished something meaningful.

Creating a safe, nurturing, open, and friendly environment mattered most to Len. Camp, he believed, was where kids built self-confidence by learning how to overcome hurdles and grow into themselves.

Len is quick to emphasize that this work was never done alone. He shared deep appreciation for the board members who supported him during his tenure. This included Jim Klutznick, Ed Yalowitz, Ted Perlman, and Michael Krasny, whose trust and commitment made it possible for camp to grow and thrive. He also expressed how gratifying it has been to see the strength of today’s board, noting the care, competence, and dedication of the many new members who continue to guide Beber forward.

Reflecting on camp today, Len spoke with pride about how Beber has grown while staying true to its core. The integrity of the philosophy, the strengthening of Jewish life, and the sense of purpose remain intact. “It was like planting a seed,” he said, “and watching a beautiful tree grow. That’s what camp has become.”

Camp shaped Len just as much as he shaped camp. He still smiles when recalling small moments like the ruach in the dining hall, campers walking arm in arm, and, with a laugh, wishing there had been air conditioning during his years as director. On a recent visit, seeing Ron Kaplan’s memorial plaque and court brought both pride and reflection.

As we celebrate Len’s 80th birthday, we invite our community to honor him in a lasting way. Donations made in Len Keilin’s honor will support the construction of Beber Camp’s new pickleball courts, spaces that will bring campers together, build community, and create joy for years to come. When making a gift, click here, and simply select Len’s name from the dedication dropdown on our donation page.

Happy 80th birthday, Len. Thank you for planting seeds that continue to grow.