NEW YORK CITY—An industry public relations leader and former civil servant has died.

Lloyd Kaplan, chairman of LAK Public Relations, passed away following a battle with amyloidosis, a systemic disorder. He joined the public relations firm just three years after it was founded by Lisa Linden, president and CEO—and another partner—22 years ago. Linden and Kaplan were married and became business partners in LAK.

Kaplan previously played a major role as chief of staff to first deputy Mayor John Zuccotti during the campaign to restore the city's credibility in the wake of the fiscal crisis, and again in the private sector, to bolster Downtown Manhattan after 9/11. He has guided the course of publicity for key residential and commercial developments throughout the region and planned defining events and awards ceremonies for some of the leading artists of our times.

Kaplan has worked with business, government and civic leaders, major architects, designers and authors. He also has written for mayors, governors and national leaders over the course of a career spanning more than three decades.

Formerly EVP at Rubenstein Associates—which also represents real estate clients—he was deputy housing commissioner for New York State, special assistant to Mayor Abraham Beame and director of public affairs for the NYC Planning Commission. He has served on the Mayor's panel to improve police management, the Citizen's AIDS Commission and has taught at several universities.

A graduate of New York University, he has a master's degree from Yale University. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to Citymeals-on-Wheels or the Alzheimers Association of NYC.

Instant Insights /

Industry PR Pro Lloyd Kaplan Passes Away

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