A Tribute from the Board and Staff of the Cleveland Leadership Center
The Board and Staff of the Cleveland Leadership Center are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our treasured colleague, friend, and civic giant, Allan Krulak. Allan passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the age of 87.
Allan’s leadership helped shape the Cleveland Leadership Center into the vital community institution it is today. As a dedicated Board Member and one of the earliest champions of Look Up To Cleveland, Allan believed in the transformative power of civic education and youth leadership. A proud 1988 graduate of Leadership Cleveland, Allan embodied the values of informed, connected, and committed leadership. Over the course of more than 30 years, he guided, advocated for, and personally supported the growth of Look Up To Cleveland, leaving an unmistakable mark on thousands of high school students who gained not only knowledge and skills, but also the confidence to lead in their schools, communities, and careers. Among those students was Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, one of many inspired by Allan’s example.
Allan’s wisdom, candor, and generosity lifted every conversation, every meeting, and every young person he encountered. He never sought the spotlight, yet he was the heartbeat of so many of our efforts. Whether rallying support for Shoes and Clothes for Kids or working to build a more engaged civic community, Allan gave selflessly, listened deeply, and acted with clarity of purpose. His leadership at CLC was grounded in humility and hope, rooted in his steadfast belief that a stronger Cleveland could be built by investing in the next generation.
That belief continues through the Allan C. Krulak Endowed Scholarship Fund for Look Up To Cleveland, which Allan established at the Cleveland Foundation. This fund reflects his lifelong commitment to youth leadership and ensures that students for generations to come will benefit from the opportunities he held so dear. We are honored that Allan created this lasting legacy, and we invite those wishing to honor his memory to consider making a contribution in his name.
“Allan had the rare ability to make everyone feel like they mattered. He built bridges across generations and sectors, always with grace, humor, and an unwavering belief in people. His inspiration and dedication echo throughout CLC—from the students he mentored to the programs he helped grow. We will miss his wisdom, his wit, and most of all, his heart.”
— Becky Ruppert McMahon, President & CEO, Cleveland Leadership Center
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Allan’s beloved wife of 59 years, Judy Krulak, and to the entire Krulak family. Allan’s love for his family was evident in all that he did, and our thoughts and prayers are with them in this time of profound loss.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 14 at 12:00 p.m. at Berkowitz-Kumin in Cleveland Heights, followed by interment at Lake View Cemetery. A shiva gathering will be held that afternoon from 3:00–6:00 p.m. at Three Village Condominiums in Lyndhurst.
May his memory be a blessing, and may we continue to carry forward the light he so generously shared with us all.
With gratitude,
The Board and Staff of the Cleveland Leadership Center