Rachel Hardee Klitzman, 25, died unexpectedly Sunday at home in Philadelphia of an undiagnosed cardiac abnormality. Rachel was born October 10, 1983 in Shreveport, LA to Bruce and Hardee Brown Klitzman. She moved at the age of 2 with her family to Durham. Rachel graduated from Cardinal Gibbons High School and East Carolina University's College of Nursing. She began her nursing career at UNC Hospital in orthopedic surgery and most recently worked in orthopedic trauma at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
Rachel was an inveterate caregiver, always nurturing and supporting those in need. She was a radiant spirit who adored her family and friends, with a special knack for keeping in touch with everyone. Rachel was brimming with enthusiasm over her upcoming marriage to Stephen, looking forward to beginning a family of her own with him. She loved to travel with her family and friends, and was equally content staying at home to play games.
In addition to her parents, Rachel is survived by her sister, Page Klitzman; her fiancé, Stephen Ellison, currently in the M.D./PhD program at Temple University in Philadelphia; her grandparents, Maurice and Mary Ann Klitzman, and Burt and Barbara Behrens; her uncles and aunts, Jack Klitzman, Clara Hopkins and Babs Mitchell; and cousins, Aris Musa, Taylor and Mason Hopkins.
A Mass of Christian burial will be offered 9:30 AM Saturday from Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, with Fr. Steven Patti presiding. Interment following in Maplewood Cemetery. Friends may visit 4-7:00 PM Friday at church, 810 W. Chapel Hill St. Durham. Donations in Rachel's memory may be made to: Rachel Klitzman Nursing Scholarship Fund, ECU College of Nursing, 525 Moye Blvd. Greenville, NC 27834. On-line memorials: www.hallwynne.com. Select Obituaries. Arrangements are with Hall-Wynne Funeral Service.