The Family Business Consulting Group honors the life and legacy of Dr. Bernie Kliska, a longtime member of our firm who passed away in December 2025.

Bernie joined FBCG in 1995, bringing a rare combination of clinical training and firsthand leadership experience in a family enterprise. A clinical psychologist and family therapist, Bernie was active in his family’s business during a critical period and later guided the successful transition of leadership to his sons. This blend of theory and practical leadership experience informed his work with enterprising families and added depth to our firm’s collective expertise.

“Bernie’s heartfelt, practical wisdom was influential in shaping FBCG’s perspective on the special nature of our work,” shared Kristi Daeda, President and CEO of The Family Business Consulting Group. “He was a model of patience, care, and optimism in everything he did.”

Over the course of two decades with FBCG, Bernie contributed a perspective grounded in clinical insight and personal leadership experience, strengthening both our work with families and our internal learning as a firm. He offered thoughtful perspectives in firm discussions, provided guidance to colleagues, and helped families navigate complex generational transitions with clarity and care. His ability to speak honestly about leadership succession — particularly the challenges of letting go—earned the trust of both families and peers.

Bernie’s retirement celebration was coined: “The Worst Meeting Ever.”

Bernie’s impact extended well beyond his active work with families. Many continued to reference his work years later, citing the confidence and alignment it helped create during pivotal moments of transition.

Within the firm, Bernie was known for his steadiness, intellectual curiosity, and generosity of spirit. He brought warmth, perspective, and the occasional harmonica tune to FBCG’s team meetings and was fondly remembered for closing his reflections with the optimistic refrain, “This was our best meeting ever!” That simple statement captured his approach to work and relationships alike — grounded, encouraging, and appreciative.

Bernie retired from FBCG in 2015, but his influence continues to be felt in the families we serve, in the colleagues he mentored, and in the culture of learning and respect he helped shape.

We are grateful for Bernie’s many contributions to The Family Business Consulting Group and for the example he set as a consultant, colleague, and steward of family enterprise. His legacy remains an important part of our firm’s history.