In Memoriam

Margaret Carey Brattin ’43, Nov. 25, 2022, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Margaret met Eugene Peisner ’41 during her first year at Grinnell. They married in 1943 and had three children. She went on to earn a master’s in special education from the University of Iowa, and to a career as a teacher and reading specialist. Margaret volunteered for the Peace Education Center and belonged to the League of Women Voters. After Gene died in 1985, Margaret married John Brattin. They enjoyed traveling and visiting their children across the country before he passed away. The College’s Peisner Family Scholarship Fund was among the beneficiaries of Margaret’s support.

Harriet Cook LeMaster ’46, Feb. 28, 2023, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. After graduating with a bachelor’s in music, Harriet received her master’s in music education from Columbia University Teachers College. She married Edward B. LeMaster III in 1955. She was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church, where she served as a relief organist, and at Vicar’s Landing, where she was a regular organist into her 90s. She was involved with the Jacksonville Symphony and served on the board of the Jacksonville University Friends of the Library. Traveling, boating, and fishing were among her many interests. Survivors include her two children and three grandchildren.

Bettie Neville Noyce ’46, March 7, 2023, Ashland, Oregon. Bettie fondly remembered her friends and happy years at Grinnell. She majored in chemistry and, upon graduation, married her lab teaching assistant, Donald S. Noyce ’44. Bettie was a class agent for 18 years, recipient of a Grinnell Alumni Award in 1996, and founder of the Donald S. Noyce ’44 Masterclass Endowed Fund. She was the mother and grandmother to many Grinnell alumni. Survivors include sons Donald Noyce ’75 and Robert Noyce ’71; daughter in-law Lindalu Vognar ’72; grandsons Adam Noyce ’02 and Christian Noyce ’15; granddaughter Jennifer Noyce ’05; and niece Abigail Scheckter ’02.

George “Van” B. Vanstrum ’47, Dec. 28, 2022, Greensboro, Georgia. Van’s four years at Grinnell were interrupted by service as an ensign on a PT boat in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Nevertheless, he earned nine varsity letters during his sophomore, junior, and senior years — three each in football, basketball, and baseball. He worked for many decades at Aetna Life, retiring as vice president. He served as president of Grinnell’s alumni association during 1974 and was honored with a Grinnell Alumni Award in 2006. A single-digit handicap golfer, he was also a Life Master in bridge. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Ann (Hauer) Vanstrum ’47; three daughters; two sons, including son Glenn Vanstrum ’74; and five grandchildren.

Nadine Osincup Collins ’48, Feb. 25, 2023, Scottsdale, Arizona. Nadine married Fred Collins in 1953. In 1966 they moved to Newton, Iowa, where they raised their three children. Nadine was a member of PEO for more than 70 years. She volunteered at church, sang in the choir, and enjoyed sewing, entertaining, and spending time with friends. After Fred retired from Maytag in 1987, they moved to Scottsdale. They enjoyed traveling and making new friends. Most of all, Nadine loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Sally Pierce Langan ’49, Dec. 31, 2022, Carol Stream, Illinois. Sally attended Grinnell before graduating from Washington University in 1949. She married Edward Langan in 1949, and the couple had four children. Following a divorce in 1970, Sally raised her four children as a single parent while teaching kindergarten and then first grade in the Wilmette (Illinois) Public Schools. Sally will be remembered for her grace and sense of humor, her Christian Science faith, and her devotion to her family and her students.

Thomas F. Liegler ’50, Feb. 20, 2023, Whitewater, California. Tom was a member of the Grinnell football and debate teams. He married Joyce Langmade in 1955 and shortly after began his career with the Chicago White Sox. In 1962, he was hired by the Houston Colt 45’s baseball team. Tom assisted in the club’s transformation into the Houston Astros and the building of the Astrodome. The peak of his career came in 1965, when he oversaw the design and construction of Anaheim Stadium for the then Los Angeles Angels. For more than 20 years, Tom directed operations not only at the Big A but also at the Anaheim Convention Center and the city’s two golf courses. Tom’s love of family and his faith were most important in his life, and he and Joyce raised three children.

William R. Pudvan ’50, Feb. 23, 2023, Columbus, Ohio. After graduation, Bill went on to receive his M.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He practiced family medicine for 11 years before deciding to specialize, completing a four-year residency in radiology at the Cleveland Clinic and VA Hospital. In 1969, he established a partnership in radiology at Lakewood Hospital in Lakewood, Ohio, where he remained until retirement. Bill loved to travel, fish, and spend time with his family. He was pre-deceased by his wife, Eileen. Surviving him are seven children from two marriages; 15 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Elizabeth Weiss Snortum ’50, Jan. 12, 2021, Walnut Creek, California. Born in Germany, Beth grew up in the shadow of Hitler’s rise to power and persecution of the Jews. In 1939, Beth’s mother sent her to join siblings in the U.S. Beth met Niel Snortum ’50 at Grinnell, and they married in 1951. In 1987, at the age of 58, Beth went back to school and earned her master’s in education from St. Mary’s College. Niel passed away in 1991. Beth spent nearly 40 years as a health and sexuality educator for Planned Parenthood. She was a fierce advocate for women’s health and the rights of all people to live their lives freely. In 2014, she received the Mary Lee Tatum Award for exemplifying the qualities of an ideal sexuality educator. It was important to her to pass on her Jewish heritage. As a Holocaust survivor, she participated in several interviews and archival projects. Beth’s survivors include her son and daughter; four grandchildren; a great-grandson; and her cousin, Joyce Stern ’91.

Patricia Patterson Dimock ’51, March 17, 2023, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Patty attended Grinnell and graduated from Colorado College in Colorado Springs, where she studied fine arts and interior design. Patty’s first marriage was to James Harrison in 1950. Her second marriage was to George Dimock in 1960. Patty was a gifted artist with an adventurous spirit. She traveled, painted, skied the mountains of Idaho and Colorado, sailed and fished off the shores of Florida and the Bahamas, and was a licensed pilot. Her passions included dogs, horses, gardening, and family.

Malcolm “Shep” H. Shepherd ’51, Jan. 7, 2023, Sun City, Arizona. As a young man, Shep joined the U.S. Army Air Corps and served during WWII before attending Grinnell. He married his college sweetheart, Phyllis Fleming ’51, in 1953. Shep enjoyed many years as an accomplished entrepreneur and sales and marketing executive. He and Phyllis loved to travel. Shep was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed most sports, especially the NFL and the Green Bay Packers. Survivors include his wife.

Virginia “Ginnie” Barbon Stamper ’51, Dec. 13, 2022, Scottsdale, Arizona. Ginnie married in 1952 and had five children. She had a long career in mortgage and banking only retiring at age 83. Ginnie contributed to many charities, was a prayer warrior, and cherished her family. Survivors include two sons; a daughter; five grandchildren; and two great- grandchildren.

Anne “Nan” Hosmer Hurst ’52, Aug. 24, 2022, Modesto, California. Nan married James Hurst, and they had seven children. She was active in a church wherever she lived. For many years, she hosted American Field Service students. Upon retirement, Nan and Jim volunteered as interpretive rangers for the National Park Service. Nan accompanied Jim on more than 20 volunteer assignments for USAID in 15 developing countries. They traveled extensively, visiting every continent and all 50 states. After Jim’s passing, Nan continued to travel, visiting a total of 101 countries. She is survived by her seven children, 17 grandchildren, and 12 great- grandchildren.

George H. Turner ’52, April 8, 2022, Homewood, Illinois. George attended Grinnell before leaving to serve in the U.S. Army stateside during the Korean War. George and his wife, Rosemary, were happily married for over 64 years. They traveled the world during George’s career working for Bryant & Borg Warner. He excelled as a sales engineer and was an accomplished draftsman in the HVAC industry. George loved investing and sharing his knowledge of the stock market, teaching drivers education, and cheering on Chicago sports teams.

Nancy Scruby Mol ’53, Feb. 24, 2023, Beaverton, Oregon. Nancy met her future husband, James Russell Mol ’52, at Grinnell. They both worked in the dining hall, where Jim reportedly dropped a stack of plates when he saw Nancy for the first time. After they married, Nancy and Jim moved to Portland, Oregon, to pursue Jim’s career in hospital administration and Nancy’s career as a high school physical education teacher. They had a daughter and a son before the family moved to Corvallis in 1967, where Jim became the administrator of Good Samaritan Hospital. Nancy earned a master’s in counseling and periodically worked in education. Nancy loved her family and friends, being involved in her church, playing and watching sports, reading, word games, and lemon Oreos. She is survived by her two children and three grandchildren.

Rolland “Woody” W. Hurst ’54, Jan. 16, 2023, Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. Woody, who came to Grinnell to study pre-engineering physics, was persuaded to join the band by the woman who would become his first wife and the mother of their four children. He ultimately graduated with honors in music education and performance. He went on to get his master’s in voice and opera at Eastman School of Music. Most notable were the 10 years he spent in New York City, pursuing his passion for music and theater as an acclaimed professional singer/actor. Besides landing roles on Broadway, he was a soloist with the Robert Shaw Chorale and New York Philharmonic. His credits included television, opera, and movie roles. He went on to earn a doctorate at Columbia University and teach music at California State University.

Ralph H. Noyce ’55, March 26, 2023, Ashland, Oregon. After Grinnell, Ralph received a master’s in electrical engineering from Georgetown University, then spent a year teaching high school physics and math in Turkey. He served in the U.S. Navy and later settled in Washington, D.C., to work for the Philco company. In 1965, Ralph moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and spent the remainder of his career in product development and testing at IBM in San Jose. Some of his projects contributed to the development of geosynchronous earth orbit satellites. Shortly after his arrival in California, Ralph met Beverly Bollman. They spent many happy years together, marrying in 2007. They enjoyed travel and patronizing the local arts scene. Ralph and Beverly retired in Oakland, California, where they lived until Beverly’s passing. Ralph then moved to Ashland to be close to family. Survivors include nephews Donald Noyce ’75 and Robert Noyce ’71, and niece Elizabeth Noyce ’73.

Dorsey W. Holt ’56, Oct. 25, 2022, Gig Harbor, Washington. Dorsey’s survivors include his wife, Betty Oelke Holt ’56; brother-in-law, William Oelke ’65; and sister-in-law, Nancy Oelke Hillmann ’60.

Robert B. Phelps ’56, Dec. 25, 2022, Kingsley, Iowa. Robert was a standout football player and nationally ranked javelin thrower at Grinnell. After graduation, he studied at the Wisconsin Graduate School of Banking, then took a job with Banker’s Trust in Des Moines. In 1961, Robert married his college sweetheart, Carol Jensen Phelps ’57. They returned to Robert’s hometown of Kingsley in 1963, where, with the help of his brother, George, they reorganized the Private Oltmann and Phelps Bank into what became Kingsley State Bank in 1965. He retired in 2019 as chairman of the board. Robert served on the Plymouth County Work Activity Center board of directors and was a representative on the Plymouth County Board of Education. Other community service included both Lion’s Club president/treasurer and Kingsley’s United Methodist Church treasurer for 17 years. Most important to Robert were his faith and his family. Survivors include his wife, a daughter and two sons, and three grandchildren.

Foster C. Rinefort ’56, Dec. 15, 2022, Charleston, Illinois. Foster was proud that his father, Foster Rinefort ’27, and mother, Helen Mahin ’29, were Grinnell alumni. After Grinnell, Foster earned an MBA from San Francisco State and his doctorate from Texas A&M. His career began with Procter & Gamble, then IMC, where he managed the international safety and health division. He later shifted to teaching' first at Indiana State University then at Eastern Illinois University. He also ran his own consulting firm. Foster was inducted into the Grinnell College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007. He was an active, engaged alum, serving on the Alumni Council, as a GRASP volunteer from 2006 to 2017, and as an inaugural representative in 1977 and 2007. He also created the Rinefort Scholarship. Among Foster’s other accomplishments, he was an Eagle Scout, Certified Professional Engineer, founder of OSHA’s voluntary protection programs, and recipient of the National Safety Council Cameron Award. Foster was a U.S. Army veteran. He was married to Penny Price for 26 years prior to her death in 1986. In 1994, he married Jean Knakmuhs. Survivors include his wife, Jean; four children; five grandchildren; his brother, Dart Rinefort ’58; and his cousin, Sue Miller ’56.

Barbara Kneer Cantrell ’57, Jan. 1, 2023, Galesburg, Illinois. Barbara attended Grinnell and graduated from Bradley University. She taught school in suburban Chicago and Galesburg. She also worked at Knox College Library and did substitute teaching. She married Donald Cantrell in 1960. Barbara was a member of Galesburg First United Methodist Church. Her other activities included volunteering at the Community Health Foundation Community Treasures shop, Galesburg Woman’s Club, Galesburg Historical Association, and Knox County Retired Teachers Association. Barbara was also a member of several bridge clubs. Survivors include two sons, and four grandchildren.

Gloria Wilson Ahrens ’58, Davenport, Iowa, Dec. 15, 2022. Gloria attended Grinnell prior to receiving her bachelor’s from the University of Iowa. She worked as a teacher and legal secretary for many years. Gloria and her husband, Gene Ahrens, enjoyed 31 years together before his passing in 2016. Gloria was an accomplished piano player, huge music fan, and drummer. She was an enthusiastic photographer, home decorator, and collector of dolls. Survivors include three children and seven stepchildren; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Noel C. Bacchus ’58, Feb. 4, 2022, New York, New York. Noel is remembered as an author, traveler, athlete, mentor, friend, parent, and spouse.

Mary Emily Hannah ’58, Dec. 31, 2022, Granville, Ohio. After completing her undergraduate studies, Mary Emily earned a master’s at the University of Iowa and a doctorate at the University of Illinois. She went on to postgraduate studies at the University of Colorado, University of Florida, and Harvard University. Mary Emily had a distinguished career as an educator, administrator, and consultant in higher education. Among other appointments, she served as vice chancellor for academic affairs for the Minnesota State University System; chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; and vice chancellor for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. She helped lead People-to-People delegations to the Soviet Union in 1991 and South Africa in 1995. The College awarded her an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 1982. She was a generous benefactor and engaged volunteer for Grinnell, serving as the chair of the College’s Asa Turner Society from 1994 to 2003. She received a Grinnell College Alumni Award in 2006.

Norman R. Leer ’58, March 3, 2022, Madison, Wisconsin. Norman, a Phi Beta Kappa member, went on to earn his master’s and a doctorate in English from Indiana University. He was a faculty member at State University of New York-Stony Brook and Beloit College before joining Roosevelt University in Chicago, where he taught from 1967 until 2006. He was a Fulbright lecturer for one year at Odense University in Denmark. Norman was honored with a Roosevelt University Burlington Northern award in 1985 and an Illinois Significant Poet award, presented by Gwendolyn Brooks, in 1990. Norman married Grethe Brix-Jørgensen in 1975.

JoAnn Leonhardt Orsborn ’58, Aug. 29, 2022, Colorado Springs, Colorado. JoAnn met her future husband, John Orsborn ’58, at Grinnell. They married in 1960. While raising their children, she participated in a variety of civic organizations and causes. As a proud Democrat and a fierce feminist, she volunteered with the League of Women Voters and Citizen’s Lobby and participated in several political campaigns for Democratic candidates. In 1975, she went back to work at the Colorado College bookstore; just two years later she was tapped to become the manager. She loved working with the faculty, staff, and students, before retiring in 1997. JoAnn was a GRASP volunteer from 1998 to 1999 and enjoyed attending alumni events. After retirement, JoAnn and John traveled around the world. Survivors include her husband of 62 years, a daughter, and a son.

Leo M. Altemeier ’59, Dec. 18, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. During his college years, Leo ran cross-country and played basketball. He married Arvilla Wyland in 1966. Over the course of his life, he worked in road construction, monument sales, product sales, and roofing, but his real love was farming. In 1981, he and his wife purchased a farm near Malcom, Iowa, where he farmed until he retired in 2019. Leo loved hunting, fishing, and playing cards with family and friends. Survivors include his wife; three daughters and a son; four grandsons and seven granddaughters; 22 great- grandchildren; and one great-great- grandchild.

David C. DeLong ’59, Feb. 28, 2023, Gainesville, Florida. David grew up in Grinnell, Iowa. After he earned his bachelor’s in psychology, he served as an engineering officer in the U.S. Navy. He went on to start his own company, Stadiums Unlimited, before moving to Gainesville and finishing his career as a successful salesman for Musco Sports Lighting. He was a hardworking and dedicated businessman, and his professional accomplishments were a source of pride for him and his family. He had a passion for golf and tennis and was a huge supporter of the University of Florida women’s tennis program and an enthusiast of women’s sports in general. He was a self- proclaimed rancher and loved having horses and extra-large Great Danes. David had a priceless sense of humor, which made him friends all over the world. David’s survivors include his five children.

Louise Hand Im ’59, Dec. 28, 2022, Charlotte, North Carolina. Louise is survived by her four children, three granddaughters, and six great- grandchildren.

Nancy Garret Logan ’59, Jan. 9, 2023, Bloomfield, Iowa. Nancy, who adopted one son in 1968 and another in 1971, worked at Davis County Savings Bank, now Success Bank, while she raised her two boys. She retired in 2003 but remained active on the bank’s board of directors until she was 80. Nancy enjoyed traveling in her retirement. She also enjoyed playing golf, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, and professional baseball. Nancy was a proud Grinnell alumna, and she served as a member of the Grinnell Alumni Council in 1997. She was active in alumni events and in her support for the College. Nancy’s survivors include one son and four grandchildren.

Darrell D. Kruse ’60, Jan. 9, 2023, Hendersonville, North Carolina. Darrell was a Banker Trust Scholar, active in the College orchestra, men’s Glee Club, and the board of religion. He also served as vice president and social chair of Langan Hall. After graduating, he completed General Electric’s financial management program (considered equivalent to a master’s in finance). He was promoted through several roles at GE, ultimately retiring from GE Lighting Systems in Hendersonville. Darrell completed his military service with the regular U.S. Army Reserve. He was a lifelong Lutheran and a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville, where he and his wife, Marcia, married in 1984. Darrell was active in community service as well as local and national politics. He was involved with several business ventures, including real estate sales and leasing and executive candidate recruitment. Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Marcia Amschler Kruse.

Edwin L. VandeNoord ’60, Feb. 7, 2023, Boulder, Colorado. After graduation, Ed earned a doctorate in physics and optical engineering from the University of New Mexico. During his career at Ball Aerospace & Technologies, Ed rose to senior vice president and became a leader in aerospace. Ed was proudest of his work on the cosmic background explorer (COBE) satellite program for NASA. Ed and his wife, Rhonda Lee Debondt, enjoyed 60 years of marriage. Ed’s passion for the Rocky Mountains and anything outdoors included fly fishing, skiing, hiking, and biking. Most of all, he enjoyed time spent with his friends and family at their home on Flathead Lake in Montana. Survivors include his wife, a daughter, and five grandchildren.

Joseph J. Walka ’60, Nov. 22, 2022, Flagstaff, Arizona. At Grinnell, Joe majored in English and edited The Scarlet & Black. After graduation and his marriage to Ann Weller Walka ’60, Joe received his MBA from the University of Indiana and a Master of Public Administration and doctorate in political economy and government from Harvard’s Kennedy School. He taught at the University of Arizona and Idaho State University, then joined Northern Arizona University, where he was the founding director of the Center for American Indian Economic Development. Joe served as dean of NAU’s College of Business from 1987 to 1996. He also served on local and state commissions and boards. He loved camping and river trips with his family and attending NAU sporting events. Joe was an active alumnus who served as a GRASP volunteer from 2000 to 2017, a Class Committee member from 2004 to 2018, and a member of his 45th, 50th, and 55th Reunion committees. Survivors include his wife, and a niece, Clara Rice Hlavac ’99.

Floyd M. Price ’61, Feb. 26, 2023, Germantown, Maryland. Floyd was a proud Grinnell graduate who went on to earn a master’s from the University of Nebraska. He made major contributions to molecular cell biology during his 31-year career at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, where his work included studying mechanisms of carcinogenesis using tissue culture models. His research proved that genetic predisposition to cancer is associated with deficient DNA repair, and he contributed to the development of a potential assay for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. He co-authored 60 scientific papers/ articles during his career. The son of a Congregational minister, Floyd felt especially connected to the United Church of Christ. When a new UCC church started in Germantown, he became a charter member, serving on the first missions board and nominating committee, and he started the children’s choirs. An avid college sports fan, Floyd particularly cheered for the University of Maryland football and women’s basketball teams.

Gregory D. Erwin ’62, March 8, 2023, Sarasota, Florida. After Grinnell, Greg graduated from the University of Nebraska Law School. He began his legal career at Dewey Ballantine in New York and subsequently moved to Omaha in 1974 to become the ninth partner, and first securities lawyer, at Kutak Rock. In 1984, Greg co-founded America First Companies, a first-of-its-kind, publicly traded fund of government-backed mortgages. In 1991, Greg won the bid for Omaha’s municipal lottery, forming Big Red Keno, which became the largest operator of Las Vegas-style keno in the United States. For more than 30 years, Greg and his business partners expanded Big Red Keno to include multiple Big Red Restaurant & Sports Bars locations in Nebraska. Greg was known for his humor, generosity, and unfaltering optimism, even when diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 55. Despite epic health battles over the next 25 years, he refused to let bitterness enter his heart. Greg is survived by his wife, Billie Erwin; his three children and four grandchildren; and his stepdaughter and her two children.

L. Kay Rook Norman ’62, March 9, 2023, Altoona, Wisconsin. Kay met her future husband, Stanley Gerald Norman ’61, at Grinnell. After graduation, she earned a master’s in zoology from the University of Iowa. She and Stan married in 1963. His medical career took them to Hawaii; Chicago, while Stan took a general surgery residency; Wayland, Massachusetts, for his residency in otolaryngology; and then Eau Claire, Wisconsin. They had three children during these years. Kay was active in PEO, PTO, Medical Wives Auxiliary, League of Women Voters, and was a committed swim team mom through the many years their children swam for the YMCA team. She later returned to work as a biology teacher and lab instructor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She enjoyed camping, canoeing, white water rafting, scuba diving, biking, alpine skiing, wind surfing, and playing tennis and golf. Kay was also a gifted writer, composing a vast collection of poems about life’s journey. Family was everything to Kay. She is survived by her husband, their three children, and nine grandchildren.

Helen Bishop ’63, Jan. 2, 2023, Falls Church, Virginia. After graduating from Grinnell, Helen earned a doctorate in microbiology and moved to the Washington, D.C., area, where she worked in her chosen field until retirement. Helen read constantly, followed politics and current events avidly, loved the theatre, played bridge regularly, and kept her rather sardonic sense of humor all her life. She was a member of her 50th Reunion committee.

David W. Kennedy ’63, Feb. 12, 2023, New York, New York. After receiving his bachelor’s, David earned a J.D. and MBA and went on to a career as an author, real estate executive, and teacher. In 1983, he wrote The Condominium and Cooperative Apartment Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide, selected by Library Journal as a Best Business Book of the Year. He authored five other business and financial books and hundreds of magazine articles and newsletters. David was a past president of the American Society of Journalists and Authors, a professional organization of independent nonfiction writers. He taught at several educational institutions and developed curriculum for New York state’s continuing education courses for real estate professionals. David was a trivia king, passionate New York Yankee and New York Giants fan, and crossword aficionado. He was a very proud Grinnell alum and served as a class agent from 1995 to 2003, GRASP volunteer from 1998 to 2017, was an inaugural representative in 2002, a Class Committee member from 2011 to 2017, and member of his 50th Reunion committee. David is survived by his wife, Barbara, and a daughter.

Robert J. McIntyre ’63, Jan. 4, 2023, Harpswell, Maine. After Grinnell, Robert earned a master’s from Cornell University and a doctorate from the University of North Carolina. He specialized in labor economics, with an area focus on Central and Eastern Europe. He taught economics at the University of Pennsylvania, Bowdoin, Dartmouth, Bates, Portland State, and Smith, then returned to Bowdoin. Robert’s work on the economics of system transition in the former Soviet Union led to a year as a Fulbright senior exchange scholar at the Moscow Higher School of Economics. He continued his work on post-Soviet transition economies as a senior researcher at the United Nations in Helsinki, Finland, and as a senior policy advisor for the UN in Bratislava, Slovakia. After returning to Harpswell in 2004, he became active in local affairs and was best known for propagating old varieties of Maine apple trees. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Rosenberg; his daughters, Gretchen McIntyre and Bates McIntyre Larson ’95; and his former wife, Marilyn McIntyre.

Kent E. Rogerson ’63, Dec. 1, 2022, Stockton, California. After attending Grinnell, Kent completed his medical degree and psychiatric residency at the University of Iowa Medical School. He had a private psychiatric practice in Stockton. Kent was an avid sports fan and an accomplished artist. He is survived by his devoted wife of 32 years, Lana; their six children; six grandchildren; and five great- grandchildren.

William J. Alexander ’64, Feb. 14, 2023, National City, California. Bill attended Grinnell then finished his history degree at Northern Illinois University. In 1966, Bill married his first wife, Catherine “Kitty” Pape ’66. They had two children. Later, he attended the University of Iowa, where he earned a master’s in instructional design and technology. In 1987, he became associate dean of instructional resources at Southwestern College in the San Diego area. There he met Maryellene Deason, whom he married in 1993. They spent 30 years enjoying a rich life of art and world travels. He is survived by Maryellene and two children.

Nan Rudolph Bucknam ’65, Dec. 4, 2022, Webster City, Iowa. Nan attended William and Mary College for two years before graduating from Grinnell, then earned her master’s from Antioch College. She married Larry Bucknam in 1968. Nan taught high school social studies in Webster City from 1967 until she retired in 2004. She was a finalist for the Iowa Teacher of the Year in 1988. Nan was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, where she taught Sunday school. She was also part of PEO, YSS, League of Women Voters, Kendall Young Library Board, and St. Margaret's Guild, and she played flute in the community band. Nan enjoyed reading, playing tennis, swimming, cross-stitch, playing card games, walking, and spending time at her cabin. Nan’s survivors include her husband; a son and daughter; and three grandchildren.

Marcia Hall Muzytschenko ’68, July 19, 2022, Simsbury, Connecticut. After attending Grinnell, Marcia went on to receive a bachelor’s in psychology from Syracuse University. Most of her working career was with Security CT Life Insurance Company. Marcia had a love for all of nature, including many dogs over her lifetime, the beach, the Boston Red Sox, and especially music; above all, she loved her family. She was an accomplished piano player and a clarinetist with the Simsbury Community Band for many years. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, George Muzytschenko; two daughters; and two grandchildren.

Arthur H. Knowles ’70, Feb. 11, 2023, Minneapolis. Arthur lived in the Minneapolis area for many years. He was a Morris dancer, stained glass artisan, and house painter, among many other jobs and interests.

Jack R. Rued ’70, Nov. 23, 2021, Dublin, Ohio.

Phillip J. Morales ’72, Nov. 20, 2022, Brookfield, Wisconsin. Phil, who was the first in his family to attend college, earned a track team MVP award at Grinnell. After graduation, he went on to several communications roles, including as a San Antonio Light newspaper reporter, public relations reporter for a prominent Hispanic organization, and technical writer. He also founded his own elevation photography company. In addition, he authored a book explaining in detail how to solve the Rubik’s cube. Phil loved to travel and fly drones.

Veronica Ohioma Bodunrin ’74, July 8, 2022, Lagos, Nigeria. Veronica, who was born in Nigeria, went to England to further her studies, where she obtained a professional degree from the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. She married Peter Oluwambe Bodunrin in 1963, and they had four children. She later moved to the United States and obtained her degree in economics from Grinnell. In 1975, the family moved back to Nigeria, where she got a job as an administrator at the University of Ibadan. She later rose to the position of principal assistant registrar. She obtained an MBA from the Obafemi Awolowo University in 1987. Her husband was vice chancellor of the Ondo State University, now called Ekiti State University. He died in 1997.

Sheryl Bautch ’79, Jan. 14, 2023, Champaign, Illinois. Sheryl double- majored at Grinnell, studying anthropology and psychology. Her interest in public service led her to complete a master’s in social work at the University of Michigan. After serving as a social worker for several years, she earned her law degree from the University of Illinois. She specialized in family law at the firm of Webber and Thies in Champaign. Eventually, Sheryl became executive director of Family Service of Champaign County. The Family Service building was named in Sheryl’s honor when she retired.

John A. Butler ’80, Sept. 23, 2022, Mashpee, Massachusetts. John owned and operated B&B Floor Covering for decades and formed many lifelong friendships through his career. He served his local communities for many years as an emergency medical technician and firefighter. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and an avid football fan. He also loved taking photographs, watching films, and anything to do with music. Survivors include his four children and four grandchildren.

Vickie Hashman Stewart ’83, July 21, 2022, Gilman, Iowa.

Kelly Frailing ’99, Dec. 11, 2022, Metairie, Louisiana. Kelly, who was class valedictorian at Grinnell, graduated with honors from Loyola in 2007 with the Ignatian Award for Outstanding Graduate Student and the LaNasa-Greco Endowed Scholarship. She was admitted to King’s College at Cambridge University as the recipient of an Overseas Research Studentship Award in 2008. She was an associate professor of criminology and justice and the coordinator of the master’s in criminology and justice program at Loyola University, New Orleans. Kelly was known as a premier researcher and scholar on crime and criminal justice in disaster and was a committed scholar in the field of mental health and drug courts. She impacted many lives through her work, her books, and her teachings. Survivors include her husband, Jack Edward James Reese Jr., and their daughter.

Adam J. Wesely ’18, Nov. 23, 2022, Bellaire, Texas. As a youngster, Adam was very active in debate while also participating in various sports and activities, with particular interest in philosophy and photography. Adam graduated from Grinnell with a bachelor’s in computer science, then worked as a developer for Texas Mutual Insurance in Austin, Texas. Adam left his job to consider a different path forward, traveling extensively while also receiving a

certificate to teach English as a second language. Adam is survived by his parents; his siblings; and numerous other family members.

Faculty and Staff

Gary Caldwell, March 25, 2023, Grinnell, Iowa. Gary began working at the College as a campus safety officer in 2016 and was promoted to shift supervisor in 2019. He was known as a consummate professional and for making many positive contributions to campus safety during his years at the College.

Darrel Keenan, Jan. 25, 2023, Grinnell, Iowa. Darrel worked for the College as a Facilities Management staff member in the Electrical Shop from 1952 until 1994. He was the lead worker in the shop at the time of his retirement. He cared deeply about his work and colleagues, the students, and the College’s mission.

Joan Mohan, Feb. 6, 2023, Grinnell, Iowa. Joan joined the College in 1983 and served as director of the Reading Lab and a lecturer for many years before retiring in 2019. As reading lab director, she provided individual and small-group instruction to help students strengthen verbal skills, improve reading efficiency, and develop more effective study strategies. She also worked with students to improve ESL (English as a second language) proficiency and pronunciation.

Doug Caulkins, Feb. 21, 2023, Grinnell, Iowa Doug joined the anthropology faculty in 1970 and his wisdom, generosity, and kindness made him a deeply beloved professor for more than four decades. He maintained close connections with alumni from a variety of academic and career interest areas, even if he never had them in a class. Many recall amazing experiences traveling with Doug and his wife, Lorna, and several students and alumni became like family to them. He was awarded the Earl D. Strong Chair in Social Studies in 2000, became the Donald L. Wilson Professor in 2005, and was chair of the Wilson Program in Enterprise and Leadership from 2002 to 2010. He had a passion for bringing alumni back to campus, especially through Wilson programming, to expose students to a range of career options. Doug published more than 70 journal articles and book chapters on diverse topics. His faculty service culminated with his professor emeritus appointment in 2010. In 2018, the Caulkins were honored with the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation Connie Marshall Spirit of Giving Award for a lifetime of service to others.

Florence Collier Simmons ’41, June 17, 2022, Goodyear, Arizona.

Virginia “Gina” Dodds Worthington ’43, Aug. 17, 2021, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. During her formative years, Gina lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In 1946, she married Jack Worthington, who died in 1991. Gina was a claims adjuster at Liberty Mutual Insurance in Chicago, and an English teacher in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She was member of PEO Sisterhood, Chapter EK. She is survived by her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Barbara Schneider Royal ’45, June 22, 2022, Munster, Indiana. Barbara met Richard Royal ’43 when he helped new students move into their dorm at Grinnell. On the first day of spring of her first year, they eloped — World War II was on, and Dick had been drafted into the army. Barbara and Dick were married over 60 years. After the war ended, she helped support him through Harvard Business School, then moved with him to Chicago before settling in Hammond, Indiana, where they raised their three children and lived until Dick died. Barbara was deeply engaged in her community and was involved in organizations such as the League of Women Voters, the Philanthropic Educational Organization (from which she received an award in 2020 for 78 years of involvement), and the PTA Council. She was employed at times as a reading teacher and at an architecture firm. She is survived by a son and daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Evelyn Faulkner Casper ’48, May 2, 2022, Big Pine Key, Florida. After she received a bachelor’s degree cum laude, Evelyn married and moved to Miami. She and her husband lived in Key Biscayne, Florida, for 30 years. She worked at the Miami Beach Public Library and later taught at the Key Biscayne Community Church Preschool. She worked for the Miami-Dade Public School District as a reading resource teacher for 10 years before moving to the Florida Keys. She received a master’s from Florida International University in 1978 and completed seminary training at Unity Worldwide Ministries in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, in 1988. She founded Unity of the Keys church in 1984 and served there until 2000. She also founded Unity Church of Marathon in Marathon, Florida. She is survived by her daughter, a grandson, and great-grandchildren.

Charles E. Farr ’48, May 27, 2022, Des Moines, Iowa. After serving as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Philippines and with the occupation forces in Japan, Charles was honorably discharged and entered Grinnell to major in mathematics. He graduated with honors and married Marilyn Herselius ’47 in the College chapel on graduation day. A year of graduate studies at Columbia University in New York was followed by employment in the insurance industry at Equitable Life Assurance Society in New York. In 1952, the young family moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where Charles was an actuarial trainee at Bankers Life, now Principal Financial Group. His employment at Principal spanned 35 years. He was a fellow of the Society of Actuaries, a member of the American Academy of Actuaries, a fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, and an enrolled actuary. He retired from Principal in 1987 as chief actuary and then formed an actuarial consulting firm, retiring, from this work in 1996. Charles was active all his life in activities such as pole vaulting, softball, bowling, tennis, golf, swimming, sailing, canoeing, camping, cross-country skiing, and mountain climbing. Other interests included the trombone, piano, opera performances (serving on the Des Moines Metro Opera board for many years), learning American Sign Language, and qualifying as a master gardener. Charles and Marilyn traveled extensively. He also volunteered at Grinnell, where he served as an Alumni Council member. Marilyn preceded him in death. Survivors include one daughter; three sons, including Charles Farr ’72 and Tom Farr ’74; a daughter-in-law, Deirdre Schectman Farr ’75; and seven grandchildren, including Kathleen Farr Matthews ’05.

Elizabeth Johnson Wilson ’48, April 11, 2022, Dallas. After graduation, Elizabeth worked for many years as a speech therapist. She was known for her beautiful soprano voice and was in demand as a soloist and choir section leader. She is survived by two daughters and two grandsons.

Ruth Holden Hansen ’49, Jan. 21, 2022, Daytona Beach, Florida. Ruth married Niel Hansen ’49 in 1948. Family always came first for Ruth. She was a full-time mother, while also volunteering as a Girl Scout leader, chair of the elementary school library, and on the Council of Student Parents. She was the treasurer for the Darien Visiting Nurse Association and the Stamford Home Health Aides, and volunteered for Meals on Wheels. She was dedicated to the Melvin Village Community Church and the Hikers. Ruth and Niel loved to travel, particularly enjoying the national parks and international travel. Ruth enjoyed knitting, skiing, tennis, kayaking, and, most of all, living on the lake and watching the loons. She is survived by her daughters, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

William “Bill” R. Frank ’50, March 28, 2022, Wayzata, Minnesota. While majoring in sociology, Bill spent a semester in 1947 at Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, as an exchange student. Living in a community of Black students and experiencing segregation in the non-campus community had a profound influence on his life. After graduation, Bill attended Yale Divinity School. In 1952, he married Louisella Kurth ’51. He was ordained as a minister in the United Church of Christ in 1953 and served at churches in Wisconsin and Ohio. After retiring as a pastor, he worked for the Milwaukee Council on Alcoholism, seeking shelter for the homeless and counseling for those with addictions or mental illness. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Claudine Briese Jacobs ’51, May 31, 2022, Medford, Oregon. Claudine married Robert Glenn Jacobs ’50 after graduation. Over the next 10 years, Robert attended graduate school at the University of Iowa and the Chicago Theological Seminary and taught at Iowa Wesleyan College. Claudine taught school for one semester, took graduate classes, and worked as a secretary. They had two children before moving to Los Angeles, where Robert taught at University of California-Los Angeles. Later, he taught at Western Illinois University in Macomb. Claudine worked in the college bookstore after her children were grown. After his retirement, Robert developed numerous health issues, and Claudine became the primary caregiver. She is survived by a son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Elaine Brown Kirst ’51, June 27, 2022, Watertown, Wisconsin. Elaine, who married Eugene Kirst in 1949, furthered her education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, UCLA, and Grinnell. Later in life, she became an LPN. She and Eugene raised five children. She had a love for music and shared her talents by educating others with piano, voice, and violin lessons. She was a part of the Watertown Chamber Violin Orchestra, Watertown Players, Euterpe Singers, Vesper Singers, and the Lutheran Chorale Singers. Reading, taking part in book clubs, playing bridge, and cross-stitching brought her much pleasure. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Janet Wallyn Purcell ’51, April 2022, Prospect Heights, Illinois. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Purcell ’50.

W. Ben Whitehill ’51, June 7, 2022, Stevens Point, Wisconsin. At Grinnell, Ben was president of Dibble Hall, a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and graduated in three years. Ben married Carolyn Slater ’54. He attended Harvard Medical School, interned at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, and served in the U.S. Navy on Guam for two years. A residency in general practice in Denver was followed by 15 years as a medical missionary in Hong Kong. In 1975, he joined the U.S. Public Health Service and worked at the Leavenworth, Kansas, and Atlanta federal penitentiaries and the Santa Fe Indian Hospital in New Mexico. After retirement, he enjoyed new opportunities to serve others — in a Santa Fe elementary school as a volunteer tutor, as a physician in mountain villages in Honduras and Quito, Ecuador, and as a board member of a clinic for low-income persons in Santa Fe. Ben was honored with a Grinnell College Alumni Award in 1976 and received the Joseph F. Wall ’41 Alumni Service Award in 1998. In 2016, he and Carolyn were named Santa Fe Living Treasures. He is survived by his wife, a daughter, four grandchildren, and one great-grandson.

Nancy Tegger Edwards ’52, May 30, 2022, Schenectady, New York. Nancy attended Grinnell for two years before transferring to the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana to complete a bachelor’s in political science. Years later, she earned a Master of Public Administration degree. She married James Edwards in 1956, and they raised two children. Nancy was a devoted mother, always putting family first during their younger years, but staying active by serving in the League of Women Voters and engaging in one of her passions, bridge. With her children grown, Nancy returned to the workforce; her favorite job was coordinating the travel-abroad program at Union College as an administrator in the foreign languages department. Nancy’s love of travel took her all over the world with her husband. She is survived by her husband, her daughter and son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Margaret Wilson Kersten ’52, Nov. 22, 2021, Rockford, Illinois. Margaret was married to Willis Kersten, who preceded her in death. Survivors include a daughter and son, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a brother.

Benjamin F. McGuckin Jr. ’52, April 7, 2022, Charleston, South Carolina. After graduation, Ben joined the U.S. Navy, where he rose to the rank of captain. He was called to active duty in 1962 for 10 months during the Berlin crisis. As a lifelong athlete, Ben enjoyed swimming, tennis, and golf, as well as fishing, shrimping, and hunting. He was a member of Grace Church and a member and former commodore of the Carolina Yacht Club. He spent 40 years with New York Life, but his greatest joy was his family. He is survived by two daughters and a son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Barbara James Williams ’52, June 2, 2022, Montpelier, Vermont. After a time at Grinnell, Barb graduated from the University of Iowa. She and her husband settled in the south suburbs of Chicago. Following her divorce in 1974, Barb raised her four children as a single mother while earning a master’s in environmental engineering from Governor’s State University in Illinois. She went to work first for the Environmental Protection Agency and later the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Chicago. She served for many years on her town’s park district board and was president of the Illinois Association of Park Districts in 1979–80. Barb enjoyed hiking, tennis, bridge, travel, and socializing with a wide circle of friends. She is survived by one son, two daughters, and five grandchildren.

Mary Halliday Freeman ’54, June 7, 2022, Plainfield, Illinois. After graduation, Mary worked as a medical technician and librarian and married Robert Freeman. They lived in Glen Ellyn, Yorkville, and Plainfield in Illinois and had three children. Mary regularly volunteered at church and loved singing in the choir. She is survived by her children and five grandchildren.

J. Barry Lawrence ’54, March 26, 2022, Hendersonville, North Carolina. Barry was an avid swimmer and was part of a conference championship-winning Grinnell swim team. After earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology, Barry went on to a successful career as an advertising account executive. He was married to Sandra Lobotzke Lawrence. They enjoyed traveling and living in places such as Little Rock, New Orleans, and Seattle before settling in Hendersonville. Barry loved sailing and was a member of the North Shore Yacht Club for many years. Barry and Sandra were both active members of St. James Episcopal Church. Sandra died in 2019 after 42 years of marriage.

Norman D. Noe ’54, April 10, 2022, Greeley, Colorado. Norm met Marty Strovers, a Grinnell “townie,” and they married in 1955. After college, he went into the insurance business with his father in Greeley and continued working in the insurance field until his retirement in 1996. He helped form Pioneer General, a surety bonding company, where he served on the board of directors. Among Norm’s many public service roles, he was a Jaycees member and statewide vice president and president of the Boys and Girls Club of Greeley. He also sat on the Greeley parks and recreation and museum boards. Norm was a family man and enjoyed watching his kids’ and grandkids’ activities. He was an avid reader and loved camping and fishing. He is survived by his wife, three children, and grandchildren.

Seymour J. Raffety ’54, June 16, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. Seymour was one of five children of LaVerne Raffety ’22 and his wife, Iness. Seymour’s parents farmed for many years northwest of Grinnell. After Seymour earned a degree in physics and mathematics from Grinnell, he went on to complete a master’s and a doctorate in nuclear engineering at Iowa State University. His nuclear engineering doctoral dissertation, “Design of UTR-10 Fission Plate,” completed in 1964, examined the implications of development of a useful fission plate installation for research work. Seymour also served in the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers and the American Nuclear Society. He worked as a nuclear engineer for the Dairyland Power Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative headquartered in La Crosse, Wisconsin, that delivers electricity to 62 counties in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. Seymour was married to Carmen M. Raffety, and after he retired from Dairyland, the couple returned to Grinnell. Seymour was a generous benefactor to the College. Among his philanthropic contributions were donations to create the Raffety Physics Advanced Capstone Laboratory and the LaVerne E. Raffety Scholarship. Seymour was 89 when he died at the Mayflower Community Health Care Center in Grinnell. A service with military honors was held at Hazelwood Cemetery in Grinnell. Survivors include his wife, a brother, and three children.

Gerald P. Hagen ’55, Jan. 31, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. Born and raised in Grinnell, Jerry played many sports. He received a degree in physical education and teaching and later went on to earn a master’s in educational administration from Drake University. He started his career in teaching and coaching, eventually moving into educational administration. He served as an elementary principal in the Grinnell-Newburg School District from 1965 until he retired in 1996. He was passionate about Grinnell history. Jerry started Grinnell’s first soft-serve ice cream shop, The Frosted Palace, and he and several friends owned JD’s Restaurant for a time. Jerry ran the clock for football and basketball games for many years. In 2006, he received Football Coaches of Iowa Achievement Award honors. Jerry married Jeananne Reisetter ’63 in 1963, and they raised two daughters. The couple divorced in 1998. He is survived by his two daughters, grandchildren, and a great-grandson.

Rachel “Polly” Hallett Johnson ’55, March 15, 2022, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Polly graduated from Grinnell Phi Beta Kappa and went on to Harvard Law School, where she was one of eight women in her class. After law school, Polly married a Harvard classmate, Robert “Joe” Johnson, and they lived in Concord, New Hampshire, before heading west to New Mexico in the early 1960s. Family lore has it that Polly got the highest score on the New Mexico bar the year that Polly and Joe took the exam. She and Joe were married for 57 years until his death in 2018. Polly is survived by two daughters, two sons, and her grandchildren.

Allan D. Kellar ’55, April 9, 2022, Lake Elmo, Minnesota. Allan majored in music at Grinnell and was a member of two national honor societies — Phi Beta Kappa (academics) and Pi Kappa Lambda (music). In Chariton, Iowa, he met and married Linda Bricker, and they raised two daughters. He earned master’s and doctoral degrees in music at the University of Iowa. In 1965, he joined the faculty at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as chair of the music department, teacher of music history, and director of choral activities. He led Coe choirs on seven tours to Europe. He also directed the choir at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids. In 1975, he was named the Pearl M. Taylor Chair in Music, Coe’s first endowed professorial chair. In 1999, the Kellars moved to Lake Elmo, where they were active in musical and community activities. Allan also performed in Broadway-style musical productions and for 10 years was a member of the Minnesota Chorale, performing regularly with the Minnesota Orchestra. In 2010, Grinnell College presented him with an Alumni Award for his work as a teacher and humanitarian. Allan loved baseball, traveling, reading, and photography. Most of all, he loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters, Beth and Holly Kellar ’93; and his grandchildren.

Bonnie Hagen Schmidt ’55, May 16, 2022, Marion, Iowa. Bonnie was born and grew up in Grinnell. After she graduated, she moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she enjoyed teaching in the public school system for eight years. She married Gene Schmidt in 1962, and they had two children. Bonnie was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, Chapter DK in PEO, and various educational organizations. She loved spending time with her family and following her grandchildren’s activities. She is survived by her husband, two children, and three grandchildren.

Nancy Hunter Batz ’58, July 20, 2022, St. Paul, Minnesota. At Grinnell, Nancy made lifelong friends, traveled the country and abroad, and prepared to embark on a music teaching career. Nancy met Ronald Batz, her husband of 50 years, while teaching in Lake City, Iowa, and they had three children. Nancy’s most significant teaching job was in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, teaching K–8 music for 21 years before retiring in 1998. Her favorite job was teaching at United Community (now Boone High School), in Boone, Iowa. Nancy and Ron loved meeting new people and hosting parties around the upright grand piano in their living room. Upon retirement, they built and lived in a lake home in Spirit Lake, Iowa, where Nancy continued teaching piano and voice. Nancy was a member of the Grinnell Reunion Planning Committee from 2012–17. She is survived by her son, two daughters, grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter.

Joan Spratler Jackson ’59, March 8, 2022, San Francisco. Joan’s love and devotion to her children was rivaled only by her dedication to her 30-year career as a librarian and branch manager with the San Francisco Public Library. She is survived by her son and daughter.

Roger C. Smith ’60, March 30, 2022, Grand Junction, Colorado. Roger was a retired criminologist who served as director of the Michigan Bureau of Forensic Mental Health Services for 20 years. He earlier worked for the Hawaii Department of Public Safety and U.S. Justice Department, after earning advanced degrees from the University of Chicago and University of California-Berkeley. Survivors include his wife, Carmen.

Steve K. Beaumont ’62, June 16, 2022, Garber, Iowa. After he attended Grinnell, Steve earned a doctorate in history from the University of Wisconsin and served in the U.S. Navy. Steve made his living as a carpenter. A passionate conservationist, he reconstructed several plots of prairie at his Jupiter Ridge Farm near Garber. He also maintained a huge garden. His carpentry expertise and advice were invaluable in his volunteer restoration work at Motor Mill, a historic site in Clayton, Iowa. Steve also volunteered for the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and for the Clayton County Conservation Awareness Network, which honored him with a conservation award in 2019. Steve’s benevolence culminated with the donation of his farm to the Sustainable Iowa Land Trust, an organization formed to protect farmland to be used for growing food.

Vicki Warren Churchman ’67, April 9, 2022, Wichita, Kansas. Vicki earned a teaching certificate and a bachelor’s from Grinnell, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. She went on to earn a master’s in literature from the University of Iowa and journalism certification at Fort Hays State University. Her professional career centered on education and had a positive influence on the lives of many students. She was named to the Kansas Journalism Teachers’ Hall of Fame in 2001. She is survived by her husband, Dale Churchman; four children; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

Virginia “Ginny” Olson Richardson ’68, Dec. 11, 2021, Tucson, Arizona. Ginny created art over a span of seven decades. She earned a bachelor’s from Alfred University in 1972 and worked as head of the graphics department for the city of Cambridge, Massachusetts. She painted large-scale performance pieces in settings from schools to churches. Her work has been exhibited nationally and hangs in the homes of individuals as well as churches across the United States and internationally. She was married to Randy Richardson for 44 years. Together, they made a trip around the world, living for a year in Paris and six months in Cambridge, England. Ginny loved being a mom to her two children. In 1993, she earned a master’s from the University of Arizona. She was a counselor and art therapist with Carondelet Hospice in Tucson. She is survived by her husband, two children, and two grandchildren.

Mark S. Soldat ’69, April 18, 2022, West Des Moines, Iowa. As part of his studies at Grinnell, Mark spent a year abroad at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. After graduation, he went on to study law at Drake University, graduating in 1974. He practiced law in Algona, Iowa, from 1974–2003. During that time, he also served as the Kossuth County attorney. He spent the latter half of his career practicing law in the Des Moines area and was prominent in the field of workers’ compensation law. Early in his career, he famously worked pro bono to save a beautiful tree canopy from destruction in a road expansion project in Algona. While ultimately unsuccessful in that battle, the spirit of fighting against greed, power, and corruption embodied the way he lived his life. Mark was particularly proud of being a founding member of the Iowa Association for Justice Workers’ Compensation Core Group, his numerous Iowa Supreme Court cases establishing legal precedent that benefited injured workers, and the fact that he actively practiced law and tried cases for 47 years. He loved music and dance, was an avid Iowa Hawkeye and New York Yankees fan, and enjoyed travel. Above all, Mark loved his family and friends. He is survived by his partner, Jeanne Anderson; two children and his ex-wife, Marcia Soldat; and two grandchildren.

Charles U. Tweed ’69, Nov. 5, 2021, New London, Iowa. In 1967, Charles married Jean Percilla Capen ’68. Charles, who studied music in Oberlin, Ohio, received a bachelor’s in history from Grinnell. For more than 40 years, he served as a minister of the Congregational Universalist Church in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, retiring in 2004. He was a humanitarian and a classical pianist who also loved biking, hiking, camping, and sipping coffee with friends. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to tell jokes, but he was happiest when surrounded by family. Survivors include his wife; two daughters; four grandchildren; and his sister-in-law, Marian Capen Engstrom ’64.

Evelyn “Evie” Underwood ’70, July 16, 2022, Del Norte, Colorado. After graduating from Grinnell, Evie attended law school at the University of Minnesota. She was admitted to the bar in Colorado and Texas. For a brief time, she practiced law in Germany for the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG). After returning from Germany, she continued practicing law and owned a private law office in Del Norte. She was a member of PEO and Twin Mountain Ladies Aid and was active in Pioneer United Church. Evie enjoyed the presence of numerous animals — cows, yaks, goats, horses, dogs, and cats — in her life. She also spent many hours working on her vegetable garden. She was always game for an adventure: camping, fishing on the Rio Grande, foraging for culinary mushrooms, and traveling with family and friends.

Martha “Molly” Wolf ’71, Feb. 25, 2022, Gananoque, Ontario, Canada. She is survived by two children.

Stephen G. Dohe ’73, May 9, 2022, Omaha, Nebraska. Stephen is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marilou Dohe; a son and daughter; and two grandchildren.

Bruce F. McKean ’73, May 7, 2022, South Portland, Maine. Bruce attended Grinnell for one year and then transferred to the University of Iowa, where he graduated with a degree in English. An excellent musician, Bruce played lead guitar in bands during college and for many years afterwards. After graduation, while continuing with music, he began a separate career as a middle school English teacher. He also coached basketball and track and led a group of students in a band that played at local events. Bruce taught for 15 years before health problems forced his exit from the profession, though he continued playing music and taught private guitar lessons. In 2007, he moved to the Portland, Maine, area, where he married Karen Canter. He enjoyed Maine for the food, the crisp weather, and the life. Survivors include his wife, Karen, and his brother, Kevin.

Alan S. Rosenfield ’73, May 11, 2022, Santa Clarita, California. Alan graduated from Grinnell with honors in political science. One of his favorite extracurricular activities in Iowa was aviation, and he became a pilot. Alan began his career with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. While still working full time, Alan entered the Southwestern University School of Law. He was admitted to the bar in 1981. He worked as a deputy district attorney until he was appointed to the Newhall Municipal Court in 1990. He was elevated to the Los Angeles Superior Court in 2000. He presided over criminal matters for 17 years in Newhall, Lancaster, and Antelope Valley courthouses. He sat in central civil in 2008 and transferred to the Santa Clarita courthouse in 2014, retiring from the bench in 2017. He had served as an assigned judge since his retirement. Alan was proud of his service in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1983–2012. He served as an army judge advocate officer and received the JAA Outstanding Career Armed Services Attorney Award. Alan was an excellent chef; played the banjo; loved cars, motorcycles, aviation, and his pets; collected whimsical art; and traveled with his wife, Angela. A 40-year resident of Santa Clarita, he was known for his community service. Alan served as a GRASP (Grinnell Regional Admission Support Program) volunteer for Grinnell from 1998–2002. He is survived by his wife and a stepson.

Laurie Casselman ’75, March 2022, Tucson, Arizona. Laurie served as an executive of QRP Inc., producer of specialty gloves and finger cots for controlled environments, a company founded in 1974 by her father. Laurie’s survivors include her brother, Duncan Casselman ’81, and a daughter.

Jonathan V. Higgins ’80, July 24, 2022, Evanston, Illinois. Jonathan was an active athlete, musician, and scholar at Grinnell. He was rookie of the year, a two-time co-captain, and three-time all-conference soccer player. He adored his soccer coach, John Pfitsch, and John’s wife, Emily. He played music in numerous bands during his time at Grinnell, most notably with the Space Potatoes, who still perform at reunions. Jonathan was a biology major who pursued independent research in freshwater ecology under the direction of Professor Ken Christiansen. Jonathan received master’s and doctoral degrees in science from the University of Illinois-Chicago. He began his career as a contractor with the Environmental Protection Agency before joining the Nature Conservancy in 1995. With the conservancy, he developed methods to incorporate freshwater into their planning efforts, helping to transform the organization from a land-based, nongovernment organization to one that conducts broad conservation globally. Jonathan was widely published,  cited, and recognized globally as an expert in freshwater conservation ecology. His work took him across North, Central, and South America as well as Africa, China, and Australia. Jonathan was passionate about his work and always eager to share his knowledge. He mentored young professionals with enthusiasm. In 2020, he created and funded the Grinnell College Jonathan Higgins ’80 Internship in Environmental Conservation Fund to encourage students to pursue careers in conservation and the environment. Donations to the fund can be made online (select “Other” under “Fund to Support,” and specify Jonathan Higgins). Checks may be mailed to: Grinnell College, 733 Broad St., Grinnell IA 50112-1690. Jonathan is survived by his wife, Susan Besson, and her two children, as well as his sister, Robin Higgins Karney ’78, brother-in-law, Peter Karney ’78, and nephews Daniel Karney ’04 and Benjamin.

Leisa Knettle Mukai ’86, April 21, 2022, Xcalak, Mexico. After 30 years of diving and snorkeling around the world, Leisa and her husband, Rob, an avid fly fisherman, moved to Mexico in 2014. They established a beachside off-the-grid eco inn, the Acocote Eco Inn, in Xcalak. Leisa was killed and Rob was seriously injured in an auto accident outside Xcalak. Survivors include her husband and a son.

Jennifer Bishop ’87, June 27, 2022, Fairhaven, Massachusetts. While at Grinnell, Jenn participated in track and cross country and set several College and state records. After graduation, she put her degree in political science to use when she joined the Democratic Party as a campaign organizer for presidential candidate Mike Dukakis. In 1992, she enrolled in law school at Boston University. After graduating, she married Robert Norton and moved to Wellesley, Massachusetts, where she joined G.W. and Wade Financial Planning group. After Jenn and Robert divorced, she moved to Fairhaven, Massachusetts. There, she met and married Ian Dobson and welcomed their son in 2003. She left G.W. and Wade to set up her own financial planning business in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This gave her the opportunity to get involved in her son’s activities as well as community activities such as YMCA, Boy Scouts, and city preservation projects. After Jenn and Ian divorced, she continued her service work in the community. She is survived by her son, Calvin Bishop Dobson.

James “Pen” Helm ’92, May 13, 2022, Louisville, Kentucky.

Peter D. Pennington ’04, June 4, 2022, White Salmon, Washington. Pete loved nature and the outdoors. During high school, he trained in Pacific Northwest Search and Rescue and became an Eagle Scout. As an adult, he kayaked through the Grand Canyon. He enjoyed hiking, biking, skiing, hunting, fishing, and camping. During Pete’s 2004 Commencement ceremony, he conducted an orchestral piece that he had composed. He went on to earn a master’s in counseling from Oregon State University-Cascades. Highlights of his career included working with at-risk youth in a wilderness program and building a successful problem-gambling recovery program. He practiced yoga and meditation. Throughout his life, Pete struggled with mental health issues. He continually worked to understand and navigate these challenges.

Nathan E. Austin ’07, June 9, 2022, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Nathan’s survivors include his spouse, Keegan Gourlie Austin ’07, and one child.

Former Faculty and Staff

Robert Haveman, June 18, 2022, Madison, Wisconsin. Bob received a bachelor’s in economics from Calvin College and went on to earn a doctorate in economics at Vanderbilt University. He started at Grinnell in 1962 as an instructor in economics, eventually earning the rank of professor. He left the College in 1970 but often spoke of Grinnell as a “a place he loved.” He took a position as a senior economist with the U.S. Congress, then joined the faculty at the University of Wisconsin, where he finished his career. Along the way, he served as director of the Institute for Research on Poverty and LaFollette School of Public Affairs and chaired the Economics Department. Bob was an award-winning teacher who published widely. In 1996, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from Umea University in Sweden. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Bobbi Wolfe; five children; and 10 grandchildren.

Katherine McClelland, June 18, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. Katherine graduated from Oberlin College and went on to earn a master’s in education at Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Katherine was Grinnell’s second director of the Mathematics Learning Center. She led the transformation of the center into what is now known as the Math Lab. In her 28 years as lab director and lecturer in mathematics, Katherine trained and supervised teams of student tutors and worked with hundreds of students individually to help them succeed in their mathematics and statistics courses. In her later years at the College, she taught introductory statistics courses. After retiring in 2012, she continued to teach statistics in the Liberal Arts in Prison Program at the Newton Correctional Facility. Survivors include her husband, Kent McClelland; son, David McClelland ’03, and daughter-in-law, Karen Fischer McClelland ’02.

Paul Nelson, Aug. 11, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. In 1990, Paul joined Grinnell as a music technical assistant in the music department, a position that combined his love of music and audiovisual recording. He served as a staff member for more than 30 years before retiring in 2021. Paul organized and went on Grinnell choir tours throughout the world. Music was a year-round activity, from playing in the community band during the summer to the College Symphonic Band during the academic year. Around town and across campus, Paul was known as someone who “never met a stranger.” Paul’s biggest passion in life was family. Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Merna; five children, including Revae Nelson ’02, associate director of financial aid at the College, and Maureen Nelson ’04; and four grandsons.

Bruce Voyles, May 24, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. Bruce joined Grinnell as an assistant professor of biology in 1977. He was promoted to associate professor in 1985 and became a professor of biology in 1994. He helped create and served as the first chair of the biological chemistry major and served as the chair of the science division for several years. Bruce was appointed the inaugural holder of the Patricia A. Johnson Professor of Biology in 2000 and held this professorship until 2011. He moved to senior faculty status in 2006 and was granted emeritus rank in 2011. He made numerous contributions to his field as a respected scientist and researcher. He contributed to programs to better integrate teaching and research that received grant funding from the National Science Foundation and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. One of his most impactful achievements was helping create the mentored advanced program for student research, MAP. Over the years, he included many students in his own research studies. Bruce was known for making science clear and interesting and for caring about his students. He is survived by his wife, Martha Voyles, Grinnell associate professor emerita of education; two children; and four grandchildren.

Martha Hale Agar ’42, Oct. 24, 2021, Tucson, Arizona.

Beatrice Giles Elliott ’42, March 25, 2022, Holmes Beach, Florida. Beatrice attended Grinnell and Denver University in Colorado. In 1942, she married Jack Savage, who was killed in the battle of Okinawa in 1945. Shortly after World War II, she joined the office of Sen. Edward V. Robertson of Wyoming and served as his executive secretary in Washington, D.C. There, she met U.S. Air Force Col. Robert W. Elliott, who was serving at the Pentagon. They married in 1947. In her retired life, she loved traveling and enjoyed many international trips.

Barbara McMurray Rickey ’42, Sept. 6, 2020, Marysville, Washington. Survivors include a niece, Ann McMurray Balderson ’62; and nephews, Thomas McMurray ’64, David McMurray ’76, and Scott McMurray ’79.

Margery Willard Ertsgaard ’44, Feb. 10, 2021, Santa Rosa, California. Margery graduated from Grinnell with a major in sociology. She married her second husband, Byron Ertsgaard, in 1970. Marge loved being outdoors, and she and Byron enjoyed traveling. Marge volunteered for Camp Fire Girls, the American Field Service, PEO, her churches, and at Rogue Valley Manor. She is survived by a daughter, a son, and six grandchildren.

Bette Horst Gadient ’44, Dec. 14, 2021, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Bette met Richard Gadient ’44, at a dance before attending Grinnell for one year. She married Richard in 1944; they settled in Davenport, Iowa, and raised six children. Bette volunteered for many organizations, including parent teacher associations, the Visiting Nurse Association, Cub Scouts, and Dad’s Club baseball. She also attended evening and Saturday classes at Marycrest College for eight years and graduated in 1968 with a bachelor’s in art. She is survived by six children, 19 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

Mary Guin Doudna Knoll ’44, Feb. 21, 2022, Omaha, Nebraska.

Gladys Mortensen Anderson ’45, Feb. 7, 2022, Lindsborg, Kansas. Survivors include two sons, four grandchildren, and two great- grandchildren.

Doris Crowl Kirhofer ’47, Jan. 20, 2022, Aurora, Illinois. After graduating from Grinnell, Doris earned her master’s in speech pathology at the University of Nebraska. She married her husband, Walt, in 1949. They moved to Baltimore, where she taught school for two years, then stopped working to raise her three children. She practiced as a speech therapist later in her life. She was a tireless volunteer, holding leadership positions in several organizations. She is survived by her three children; six grandchildren; brothers, Harry “Bud” Crowl ’55 and Richard Crowl ’57; and sister-in-law, Anne Beuckman Crowl ’57.

Iris Zeliadt Starkey ’47, Feb. 7, 2022, Riverside, California.

Elmer “Mike” Alft ’49, Nov. 22, 2021, West Grove, Pennsylvania. A Phi Beta Kappa at Grinnell, Mike earned a master’s at Syracuse University and was a John Hay Fellow at Yale University. He married Frances Clark Alft ’49 in 1950 and taught in Elgin, Illinois, schools for many years. Mike served as a member of the Elgin City Council, 1963–1967, and mayor of Elgin, 1967–1971. He was a founding member of the Elgin Area Historical Society and the Elgin Sports Hall of Fame Foundation. He enjoyed traveling with Fran, touring museums and national parks, and reading. He authored 17 local histories about Elgin. He received a Grinnell Alumni Award in 1999 and was named the Elgin Image Awards’ lifetime achievement winner in 2007. Survivors include four children, 13 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

Joanne Heath Collins ’49, Dec. 19, 2021, Tucson, Arizona. After Joanne received her bachelor’s from Grinnell, she married Thomas Collins in 1950. They lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, until 1999, when they moved to Tucson, Arizona. She was active in community affairs in Cedar Rapids, serving as a trustee of Brucemore, member of the board of the Museum of Art, trustee of the Museum of Art, and president of the sustaining members of the Junior League. In Tucson, she served as a member of the advisory council of the Museum of Art and a member of the Junior League. She is survived by four sons, nine grandchildren, and one great- granddaughter.

Jenny Jacobson Egan ’49, Dec. 29, 2021, Idyllwild, California.

Gilbert L. “Tommy” Farr ’49, Nov. 10, 2021, Bellevue, Idaho. Tommy enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1940 and married Janet Monilaw in 1945. Following military service, he completed his degree at Grinnell and then did a year of graduate work in wildlife management at the University of Wyoming. He taught for six years before becoming administrator of the Idaho Primitive area in the Copper Creek District. When he was assigned to the Caribou National Forest, he took up flying again, earning multiple pilot ratings and also acting as a flight instructor. In 1971, he became district ranger on the Ketchum Ranger District in Sawtooth National Forest. His love of flying continued in retirement, when he co-founded White Clouds Aviation, chartering air flights. For many years, Janet and Tommy traveled throughout the West. He is survived by his brother, Charles Farr ’48.

Dorothy Weaver Murphy ’49, Dec. 23, 2021, Hilton Head, South Carolina. Dot earned her master’s from Northwestern University. She married David Murphy in 1951, and they moved to southern California, where they raised two daughters before returning to the Chicago area. They lived in Tokyo for five years, then retired to Hilton Head Island in 1984. A Who’s Who in American Women psychologist, Dot held positions in public service and private practice. Upon retirement, she devoted herself to painting, gardening, and ikebana as well as bridge and golf. She is survived by a daughter.

Coolidge S. Wakai ’49, Aug. 31, 2021, Huntington Beach, California. Coolidge began his college studies, was drafted into military service, served in Italy, then completed college and earned a medical degree. He and his wife, Edith, raised their family in Honolulu, where Coolidge served the community through his cardiology private practice and in multiple hospital and medical leadership positions. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, traveling, gardening, and family gatherings. Survivors include his child, Ross Wakai ’89.

Donald J. Casey ’50, Jan. 12, 2022, Phoenix. Donald was a decorated World War II combat Marine (Pacific theatre), private pilot, accomplished large and small animal veterinarian, and third- generation Iowa farmer. When he was 50, Donald and his wife, LaDeane Osler Casey ’47, moved from Iowa to Paradise Valley, Arizona. He continued practicing veterinary medicine for 25 years, starting up multiple small animal clinics. He also was longtime volunteer for the homeless at St. Vincent de Paul, attended daily mass at the Franciscan Renewal Center, served as eucharistic minister at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, enjoyed golf, and spent many hours watching his grandchildren’s sporting and school events. He is survived by five of his six children, nine grandchildren, and three great-granddaughters.

Harriet Balzer Kenworthy ’50, Feb. 22, 2022, Flint, Michigan. During her Grinnell years, Harriet spent four summers serving as a camp counselor for special needs children. She went on to earn a master's in social work from the University of Minnesota and was employed as a social worker in Flint and Minneapolis. Harriet chaired many community boards. She was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Harriet was preceded in death by her husband, Watson. She is survived by her son and daughter and two grandchildren.

Robert J. McClellan ’50, Nov. 10, 2021, Laramie, Wyoming.

David W. Segur ’50, Feb. 3, 2022, Carmichael, California. After Grinnell, Dave worked in the Chicago area and Oregon before joining Liberty Mutual Insurance in Oakland. Liberty Mutual moved Dave to Sacramento as sales manager in 1961. He was inducted into the Liberty Mutual Sales Hall of Fame in 1974 and retired in 1988. Following retirement, Dave was able to be more active at his church, becoming a member of the choir and orchestra and serving as a deacon and elder. Dave and his wife, Marie, had years filled with family and church friends, camping, river rafting, and adventuring. Survivors include his wife, seven children, 30 grandchildren, and 14 great- grandchildren.

Howard D. “Howie” Van Schaick ’50, Jan. 22, 2022, and Doris

Jones Van Schaick ’50, Jan. 27, 2022, Markesan, Wisconsin. Doris graduated from Grinnell with a degree in sociology, while Howard continued postgraduate study at George Washington University School of Business. The couple married in 1951. Howie served with the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, and they raised their family in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, where Doris was an active member of the Community Presbyterian Church. In 1985, they moved to Wisconsin, where both were active members of their community and of the Federated Church of Green Lake. Doris enjoyed singing, reading, swimming, and gardening. Howie, who retired from the steel industry when he was 65, was an avid reader and enjoyed boating and swimming. In their retirement years, they traveled the country in their RV. Both were College alumni and development volunteers from 2005 to 2015. They are survived by their daughter, two sons, four grandchildren, and four great- grandchildren.

Richard C. “Dick” Adams ’51, Jan. 2, 2022, Sister Bay, Wisconsin. After graduation, Dick began teaching high school math. In 1951, he married Betty Louise Harshbarger. The couple was married for eight years and had three sons; Betty died in 1959. Dick earned a master’s in education and administration at the University of Michigan and later studied to become a guidance counselor. In 1962, he married Shirley Marie Roe. In 1965, he took a guidance counselor position, from which he retired in 1984. Dick and Shirley moved to Wisconsin in 1988. Dick was a huge baseball fan and loved gardening and fishing. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; four sons; 12 grandchildren; and 17 great- grandchildren.

Shirley Haegele Helpenstell ’52, Dec. 20, 2021, Nampa, Idaho. Shirley met her husband, Fred Helpenstell ’52, at Grinnell. The 10 years following her graduation were spent in Illinois and Wisconsin. While Fred was in orthopedic training, she began her long and successful career as a teacher, and they had four children. In 1964, they moved to Idaho. Shirley taught kindergarten for many years, then sixth grade and parenting classes, then started an after-school program. She was involved with numerous committees and boards; however, her pride and joy was helping start the Boys & Girls Club of Nampa. Nampa honored her as Citizen of the Year in 2000. Shirley served as a GRASP volunteer for the College from 1998 to 1999. Survivors include her children and their spouses, among them, Tom Helpenstell ’81, Tom Faciszewsk ’83, Jill Helpenstell Faciszewski ’83, and Jeanne Helpenstell Mack ’84; 13 grandchildren; and nine great- grandchildren.

Marcia Coates Jacobson ’52, Jan. 15, 2022, Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Marcia attended Grinnell for one year, married Robert Jacobson in 1950, then worked for six years at Wincharger and for 27 years as the office administrator of First Presbyterian Church. She volunteered as clerk of session, organ committee, Presbyterian Women, and circles of First Presbyterian Church, auxiliary of Goodwill Industries, and PTA at Hunt School. She is survived by three children and three grandsons.

William D. “Oz” Osmundson ’52, Nov. 25, 2021, Clear Lake, Iowa. After his sophomore year at Grinnell, Oz transferred to the University of Iowa, where he met Fran Swartz. They married in 1954. After earning his bachelor’s in economics, he joined the accounting firm of McGladrey, Hansen, Dunn & Co. (now called RSM) in Rock Island, Illinois. He was awarded his CPA in 1954 and made partner in 1956. He left McGladrey in 1989 and was self- employed thereafter. Oz and Fran lived in Rock Island for 53 years before moving to Clear Lake in 2007. Oz served on various boards and was a member of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Rock Island and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake. Oz and Fran enjoyed traveling in Europe, the British Virgin Islands, and connecting with relatives in Norway. Oz is survived by his wife, Fran; three sons; and six grandchildren.

Doris Anderson Davies ’53, Feb. 17, 2022, Englewood, Florida. Doris graduated from Grinnell in 1953 and moved to Englewood with her family in 1960. A talented singer, she performed with musical groups including Sweet Adelines, Suncoast Chorus, and Keynotes; and she sang in the choir at Englewood United Methodist Church for more than three decades. She loved the theatre and was a patron of Lemon Bay Playhouse and the Asolo Repertory Theatre. Doris was predeceased by her husband of 39 years, Clyde Stanley Davies Jr. ’54. She is survived by two daughters, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a great-great- grandson.

Natalie Thompson Hahn ’53, Oct. 11, 2021, Berkeley, California. Natalie completed two years at Grinnell before she transferred to Stanford University, graduating in 1953. She married her first husband in 1956. Natalie earned a master’s in library science from University of California-Berkeley in 1970 and worked at multiple branches of the Marin County Library as a reference librarian. After her first husband died in 1976, she married Erwin Louis Hahn, a professor of physics, and moved to Berkeley. They brought together five grown children. Natalie threw herself into volunteer work at UC-Berkeley, where she was active with foreign students. With Erwin, she enjoyed sabbaticals and physics awards ceremonies in Europe and beyond. Natalie is survived by five children, three grandchildren, and five great- grandchildren.

Donna Goetsch Boone ’54, Dec. 16, 2021, Oak Brook, Illinois. Survivors include her husband, Ernest Boone; two children; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Paul D. Friend ’54, Dec. 29, 2021, Northbrook, Illinois. Paul was an outstanding Grinnell tennis player. After graduating, he worked for his family’s business, K. Friend & Co. After the business was sold, he worked in commercial real estate. Paul enjoyed bowling and playing tennis, and was an avid fan of all Chicago sports teams. He loved traveling the world — attending six different Olympic Games and visiting the professional sports halls of fame with his children. Paul is survived by his wife, Rosanne Alper; his second wife, Joani, and their child; his first wife, Bonnie, and their four children; and by 11 grandchildren.

Sue Yager Weatherley ’54, Sept. 7, 2021, Boulder, Colorado. Sue earned her master’s in social work at the University of Denver. Her career began in San Antonio, working on the burn unit at the Brooke Army Medical Center, where she met Don Weatherley. They married in 1956 and settled in Boulder in 1960. Sue had a long career at the Mental Health Center in Boulder, where she was instrumental in starting innovative programs for children and families. She and Don helped establish the Boulder Family Therapy Center, where they practiced for many years. She retired in 2001 but maintained a small private practice until 2017. Survivors include four children: Mark, Anne, Sara Weatherley ’85, and John; son-in-law, Daniel Greenberg ’83; and six grandchildren.

Charles K. Hazama ’55, Nov. 28, 2021, Winter Springs, Florida. Chuck came to Grinnell from Hawaii. His education was interrupted by service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He received a Purple Heart and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans. He resumed studies at the University of Northern Iowa, where he met Almira “Aly” Oyakawa; they married in 1958. Chuck, Aly, and their two children moved to Rochester, Minnesota, in 1967, when he was hired at the YMCA. From 1972 to 1979, he served as YMCA executive director. A dedicated civic leader, Chuck was elected to eight, two-year terms as mayor of Rochester, serving from 1979 to 1995. He was a longtime member of the Congregational Church and held leadership roles in multiple organizations. Chuck loved to travel. He was also passionate about gardening and enjoyed spending time in the gardens at his Rochester home and his family home on Maui, where he lived for much of the winter during his retirement years. He is survived by his son, daughter, grandson, and five of his son’s stepchildren.

Patricia Parr Millhaem ’55, Jan. 17, 2022, Hilton Head, South Carolina. Pat was a graduate of the University of Iowa after attending Grinnell. She was active in her sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta, and the American Association of University Women. She later worked a variety of roles in health care and administration. After she and her husband retired, they relocated to Sarasota, Florida, where she volunteered at St. Andrews Church and for a variety of women’s support organizations. She is survived by her sons, two grandsons, a great-grandson, and three great-granddaughters.

James C. Olsen ’55, Nov. 6, 2021, Grass Valley, California. His wife, Joanne Boeckling Olsen ’54, died on July 18, 2021.

Ronald E. Schmierer ’55, Dec. 4, 2021, Omaha, Nebraska.

Charles S. Haynes ’56, March 18, 2022, Lenox, Massachusetts. Charlie, active in theatre at Grinnell, was an engaged alumnus who enjoyed a rich and varied life as a professor, artistic designer, writer, and sports fan. After graduate study at the University of Minnesota, Charlie moved to New York City. He married Harriet Hawkins in 1969. He received a Fulbright scholarship to continue linguistic research in Japan, and he and Harriet spent several years abroad, including another Fulbright tour in Indonesia. Eventually they settled back in New York City with their two sons. Charlie had a remarkable 47-year professorial career at New York University, where he had earned a doctorate in linguistics. Charlie completed a master’s in divinity studies at New York Theological Seminary in 2003. He was active in his communities, especially within his church. After Harriet died in 2016, Charlie continued to refine his distinctive arts practice featuring mixed media set in glass-paneled wooden boxes. He also wrote several plays and countless poems. His survivors include a devoted partner, Carol Walker; two sons; and three grandchildren.

Larry L. Schaleger ’57, July 24, 2019, Oakland, California. Larry was a true Renaissance man. He went on from Grinnell to earn a doctorate in organic chemistry from the University of Minnesota. He was a professor at the University of Hawaii and a laboratory guru at Jacobs Engineering. A cross- country champion at Grinnell, Larry also was a marathon man, Sierras backpacker, and golfer. He was a bridge whiz, sketch artist and painter, and lover of books. Survivors include his wife, Marjorie; children, Paul, Mary, and Eric; and a sister, Valerie.

James H. Stacey ’57, Feb. 2, 2022, Chicago. James received his master’s degree in English literature from San Francisco State University in 1960. He lived in Honolulu, where he taught English at the University of Hawaii before returning to his hometown, Chicago; there he worked for Fairchild Publications, BusinessWeek magazine, Michael Reese Hospital, and the American Medical Association. Later, he spent 18 years in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, moving back once again to Chicago in 2004. A longtime writer and press liaison for the AMA as well as a prolific freelance writer, he was the author of four books. James is survived by his wife of 41 years, Carol; his daughters from his first marriage, Nicole Stacey and Michelle Stacey ’79; four grandchildren; two stepchildren and two step- grandchildren; and many Stacey cousins, nieces, and nephews in the Chicago area, including nephew Gordon Stacy ’79 and niece Kristen Stacy ’16.

Jean Fowler ’58, Jan. 30, 2022, San Francisco. Jean graduated from Grinnell with “an enduring sense of obligation to the College.” After a brief stint working for the Girl Scout Council in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jean moved to Germany, where she was employed as a “service club girl” for the U.S. Army. This experience instilled a love of Frankenwein, skiing, and travel. Upon her return to the states, Jean lived in San Francisco. Her career with the Asia Foundation, Levi Strauss, and the World Affairs Council of Northern California provided multiple opportunities to travel abroad. Jean’s retirement in 1999 allowed more frequent adventures, often in the company of Carolyn Hewes Toft ’58 — her Grinnell roommate and lifelong best friend. Jean continued to pursue her passion for exploration, visiting more than 70 countries in her lifetime.

Susan Ward Fisher ’59, March 19, 2022, Rochester, Minnesota. Susan received her bachelor’s from Grinnell. She married Darrell Ervin Fisher ’57 in 1959. Darrell was an orthopedic surgeon with the Surgical Associates from 1970 to 2000 in Mason City, Iowa, where the couple lived until moving to Rochester, Minnesota in 2021. Susan described herself as a “professional volunteer” and faithfully served the Mason City community in leadership positions for nearly 40 years. She was employed as coordinator of education at First Presbyterian Church for 15 years. As a church elder, she served on the national Social Justice and Peacemaking Ministry Unit of the Presbyterian Church USA. She was board president of Mason City Public Schools and founding president of the Education Foundation of Mason City Public Schools. She was the first woman campaign chairperson and first woman board president of United Way of Mason City. She worked with her husband on numerous medical mission trips to St. Lucia and Kenya. Susan served on the board of the Grinnell College Alumni Association and was a reunion planning committee member (2008–2014), Alumni Council member, class fund director (2015–2018), and GRASP volunteer (1998–2017). Susan is survived by her husband, Darrell; two sons and a daughter; and five grandsons.

Janet Schaab Mann ’59, Aug. 22, 2021, Salt Lake City. Janet was a professor of music at the University of Utah, where she founded the division of piano pedagogy. Her heart was with Broadway music, and she starred in dozens of regional theaters, from MUNI Opera in St. Louis to Midland Michigan to Salt Lake City. Janet also starred in a cappella groups and was the founder of “Serendipity.” She was a brilliant classical pianist. She was also a talented artist, especially in watercolors, with an amazing eye for color and shading. Janet loved to travel and visited over 100 countries. In 2008, Janet served as a member of her Grinnell 50th reunion planning committee. She is survived by her husband, Michael Kalm; five children; and 11 grandchildren.

Ruey Brodine Morelli ’59, May 2021, Ferrara, Italy.

David A. Rave ’59, Dec. 19, 2020, Venice, Utah. Dave went on from Grinnell to earn two master’s degrees — one in social work from Smith College and one in library science from Brigham Young University. He married Connie Jean Buchanan in 1969. Dave served in the California National Guard. He enjoyed working on family history, reading, and collecting model trains. Dave is survived by his wife, Connie, and his son.

Karl L. Krumel ’60, Oct. 27, 2021, Bonita Springs, Florida. His wife, Nancy Strindmo Krumel ’61, died on June 15, 2021, also in Bonita Springs.

Carolyn Parsons McCall ’60, Aug. 25, 2021, Portland, Oregon. Carolyn spent two years teaching English in Turkey in the Grinnell fifth year abroad program. She married Merritt McCall ’60, and together they managed Menucha, a Presbyterian Retreat and Conference Center near Portland, for 30 years. Carolyn loved her family, her church, music, and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, for which she was a qualified interpreter. She served as an alumni volunteer from 2010 to 2015. Survivors include her husband; two children; five grandchildren; a sister, Margaret “Peg” Parsons Swenson ’54; and a brother, Bill Parsons ’62, and his partner, Kay Jones Rencken ’62.

Lawrence W. “Larry” Klute ’62, Nov. 18, 2020, Long Neck, Delaware. After Grinnell, Larry graduated from Duke Law School in North Carolina. He served for four years in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War as a captain and attorney. He owned a private law practice and worked for the neighborhood legal services in Washington, D.C. He retired as a federal attorney for the Board of Veteran Appeals. Larry is survived by his husband of 20 years, Eric Peterson; two daughters; and two grandchildren.

G. Warren Smith ’62, Dec. 26, 2021, Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. Warren majored in chemistry at Grinnell, where he met Constance Krambeer Smith ’63. Following their wedding, he earned his doctorate in organic chemistry from Cornell University. After a few years on the Cornell faculty, he joined the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, serving as department head and faculty member for 10 years. He next served as dean at the University of Houston-Clearlake and later moved to Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana, where he was vice president for academic affairs and then president. Then he served as Slippery Rock University’s 14th president from 1997 to 2003. He was a member of numerous scientific societies. An Eagle Scout, Warren was awarded the Silver Beaver in recognition of his years of dedication to scouting. He was a violinist and a faithful member of community orchestras wherever he lived. He also served in leadership roles in various civic and governmental groups. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Connie; his son; and two granddaughters.

Ane Sorensen Gade ’63, March 8, 2022, Santa Cruz, California. After a year of study at Grinnell, Ane married Barton Pruhs, had three children, then completed her undergraduate degree in school counseling at the University of Iowa. In the late 1960s, Ane worked as a school counselor. After completing her master’s degree in social work and counseling from the University of Iowa, she became a therapist for Lutheran Social Service’s Beloit of Iowa Counseling and Residential Treatment Center, where she eventually became clinical director. In the late 1970s, she married William Tysseling. In 1987, she moved to California, where she was employed as a counselor in San Jose and Santa Cruz. She opened a private counseling practice in 1991 and continued to provide counseling services to individuals and couples until 2021. Ane was an inveterate reader and loved the theatre. She is survived by her spouse, Bill; her daughter and two sons; and six grandchildren.

Sara Higgins Mitchell ’63, Jan. 30, 2022, Ames, Iowa. Sara attended Grinnell for two years, then graduated from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. She received her master’s in English education from University of Iowa later in her life. Sara married Larry Mitchell in 1963, and they raised two children. Besides teaching and providing English as a second language for many communities, she served on a school board in Wisconsin. Sara loved the woods and was a master gardener who loved working at Reiman Gardens in Ames. She enjoyed sewing and working on her loom and wrote family histories. Survivors include her husband, Larry; her daughter and son; and five grandchildren.

Beverly Kahling Offen ’63, Nov. 25, 2021, Glenview, Illinois. Beverly graduated from Grinnell Phi Beta Kappa with a major in history. Subsequently, she earned a master’s in library science from the University of Rochester and the University of Hawaii. Beverly was a professor of library sciences at Oakton (Illinois) Community College Library until retiring. Then she became a published and prolific short story writer as well as a talented poet. Beverly was a tireless volunteer who hosted numerous educational events for the Victorian Society and later became its president.

David V. Evans ’64, Feb. 25, 2022, Arlington, Virginia. After graduating from Grinnell, David went on to earn a master’s in political science from the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University and worked toward a doctorate in political science at Penn State. He received an honorary doctorate from Hastings College in 1998, when he was the commencement speaker. David was an authority on federal education law. He was legislative associate for higher education of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education, Training, and Lifelong Learning and worked for Rep. Dale E. Kildee, the subcommittee’s ranking minority member. Before that, he served for 19 years with the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Education, Arts, and Humanities as a professional staff member and director, working directly for Sen. Claiborne Pell. He played a key leadership role in reauthorizations of the Higher Education Act (1986, 1992, 1998); reauthorizations of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (1978, 1988, 1994); rewriting of the Vocational Education Act (1984, 1990, 1996); and other important legislation, such as The Education for Economic Security and Goals 2000 Act. He was a co-founder and member of the board of directors of Votivo, a candle manufacturing company in Seattle. He also served as administrative assistant to the governor of Rhode Island and special assistant to the governor of Nebraska. David was a member of his 40th, 45th, and 55th Grinnell reunion planning committees, and a class fund director from 2006 to 2022. He led his class in raising over $1.25 million for its 50th Reunion and in the establishment of the Class of 1964 Endowed Scholarship.

Stephen P. Grooms ’64, Nov. 25, 2021, St. Paul, Minnesota. After graduating from Grinnell, Steve earned a master’s in American studies at the University of Minnesota, where he met and married Kathe (Schnoes) Grooms. An avid hunter and fisher, he was the senior editor of Fins and Feathers magazine for five years before becoming a successful outdoor writer whose work was published in many magazines and books, including his own Pheasant Hunter’s Harvest, The Cry of the Sandhill Crane, Bluebirds, The Ones that Got Away, and The Return of the Wolf. He looked back with pride on his outdoor writing career, noting that his writing reflected his progressive politics and helped legitimize the role of women in outdoor sports. Steve is survived by a daughter and grandson.

Michael Patterson ’64, Feb. 16, 2022, Dublin, Ohio. Michael went on to earn his doctorate in experimental psychology in 1969. He served as the director of research at three colleges of osteopathic medicine (Ohio University, Athens; University of Health Sciences, Kansas City, Missouri; and Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida) from 1977 until retiring in 2008. He had innumerable scientific publications to his name and was associate editor for the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association and the Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine textbook. He earned multiple honors and awards, including an honorary Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the College of Osteopathic Studies in Montréal. He was an avid camper, international traveler, and was extremely proud of his scouting career where he earned his Eagle Scout, was a scout master, and earned the Silver Beaver award for distinguished service in scouting. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Janice; two sons; and five grandchildren.

Thomas F. Somerville ’64, March 30, 2022, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. After majoring in art and theatre at Grinnell, Tom received a master’s in theater from the University of South Dakota. He also earned an MFA in directing from Florida State University. Tom taught for several years as a tenured professor at the University of Puget Sound. Upon leaving academia, Tom had a long and successful career as a theatre director of more than 160 productions, directing shows at some of the nation’s most prestigious regional theatres. From 1985 to 1990, Tom served as director of the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre in Jupiter, Florida. Tom is survived by his wife of 32 years, Kathy; five children; and five grandchildren.

Allen M. Rossman ’66, Jan. 20, 2022, Woodinville, Washington. Allen attended Grinnell and Johns Hopkins Medical School and received his ophthalmology training at Yale. Part of his residency was spent in Haiti at Albert Schweitzer Hospital. He also served two years in the Army Medical Corps in Fort Riley, Kansas. Soon after Allen opened his ophthalmology practice in Kirkland, Washington, he was diagnosed with leukemia but triumphed over the disease and returned to full-time practice for more than 30 years. Music was a lifelong passion. He played the guitar and banjo, joining college classmates in impromptu performances. He was a member of The Geezers and the Pointless Sisters band, which performed at his 50th Grinnell Reunion celebration. Allen and his wife, Debbie, were married nearly 40 years. Following retirement, they spent time on the road in their Alfa Romeo sports cars, volunteering at rallies with the Alfa Romeo Owners of Oregon. They also spent winters in Arizona with family and friends. Allen is survived by his wife, Debbie; two daughters; three grandchildren; and sister, Amy Rossman ’68.

Stewart M. Mansfield ’67, May 19, 2021, Northville, Michigan. After Grinnell, Stew proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1971 and received the Bronze Star. After his military service, he had a successful career with Ford Motor Co. from 1972 to 2000. Stew is survived by his wife of 28 years, Barbara; a son, and two grandchildren.

Michael C. Dejoie ’68, January 2022, New Orleans. Mike was known and beloved by classmates across campus. At a time when Grinnell men typically socialized in their own hall, Mike could be found in any hall. He sang in choir and fondly remembered performing for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Mike worked on The Scarlet & Black and was in ROTC. He was one of the founders of the Grinnell College radio station KDIC. After graduation, he worked for a time at CBS News. He later became a public relations executive with AT&T in Atlanta before returning home to his beloved New Orleans. Both his home and his ancestral home were devasted in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina; he worked hard to restore both. Mike was a member of his 40th Grinnell Reunion planning committee and served as a GRASP volunteer from 2004 to 2017.

Bruce C. Luecke ’69, Nov. 27, 2021, Madison, Wisconsin. Bruce earned his DVM from the University of Missouri and held an advanced degree in pathology from the University of Illinois. He worked for the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in the 1980s. He acted as a whistleblower, a challenging and defining experience. Bruce was devoted to animals, wild and domestic, and was in his element taking care of things. Bruce and his wife, Susan Freiss, enjoyed the adventures they had exploring wild places in Wisconsin and beyond. In Bruce’s later working years, he enjoyed his position as a special education assistant with the school district, helping to support children with special needs and who had experienced trauma. Bruce is survived by his wife, Susan.

Roy Biser ’70, Feb. 24, 2022, Houston. Roy earned a Master of Divinity from Boston University School of Theology. He served as a Methodist minister at many churches throughout East Texas and was a valued member of the Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. Roy married his high school sweetheart, Merri Gay Beatty, who survives.

Rachel Canright Summers ’70, Sept. 4, 2021, Port Medway, Nova Scotia, Canada. Born in Chicago, Rachel spent part of her childhood in Guam. After earning her bachelor’s at Grinnell, she earned another bachelor’s, in nursing, from New York University. She lived in New York for 35 years before moving to Canada and becoming a Canadian citizen in 2004. For almost 20 years, Rachel lived in the old lighthouse-keeper’s house in Port Medway, Nova Scotia. She was an excellent artist, a painter with a liking for egg tempera, and a sculptor. She was a careful gardener, tending the flowers around her house and working in the community vegetable garden. She had been an emergency room nurse in New York. She was a Port Medway first responder with the volunteer fire department, always ready to help with fire and medical emergencies.

James E. Bierman ’73, Jan. 15, 2022, Northfield, Minnesota. Jim attended Grinnell for two years, then transferred to the University of Minnesota where he received his bachelor’s in mortuary science. He returned to Northfield to work for his family’s furniture store and mortuary, eventually buying Bierman Funeral Home, which he owned and operated until retiring in 2015. Jim and his high school sweetheart, Mary Boyd, married in 1972. Jim was active in the Sportsman’s Club, was a member and usher at St. John’s Lutheran Church, enjoyed fishing, and took many trips with friends and family to Canada and Alaska. He received the Rice County Wildlife Enhancement Award in 2020. Survivors include his wife, Mary; three children, and one granddaughter.

John F. Potts ’74, Feb. 26, 2022, Ottawa Hills, Ohio. After Grinnell, John graduated from the University of Toledo Law School in 1978. He was a longtime Toledo attorney, practicing on his own for 45 years; specializing in criminal law, white- collar crime, and appellate work. John loved music and played harmonica with several groups, including the Post-Modern Blues and The Microphonics. In his youth he was an athlete, wrestling and playing football for his four years at Grinnell. He also enjoyed bicycling and following the Tour de France.

Twila Thompson ’76, Jan. 4, 2022, New York City. Twila attended Grinnell to study theatre. Ultimately landing in New York City, she participated in acting classes at the Actors Institute. Soon, she was facilitating programs, leading group experiences, and offering personal coaching. As the Actors Institute evolved to work more in the corporate world, Twila became a partner in TAI Group. She developed an intense experiential program, challenging people to reframe personal injury and trauma as a source of creativity expressed through poetry, prose, music, and sculpture. In 2013, she relocated to London to develop international business. She returned to the United States as the director of new partnerships.

David H. Leech ’79, June 15, 2021, Eureka, California.

Peter D. Russell ’79, Feb. 5, 2021, Malibu, California. Peter was a story analyst for major film and TV production companies in the 1990s. Then he started his own business: teaching, writing, consulting, and appearing regularly as a conference speaker. Peter entertained and inspired with his online presence as “peterrussellscriptdoctor.” He taught at several California colleges and was awarded Teacher of the Year at University of California-Los Angeles in 2009. Peter was hiking with his wife when he suffered a fatal heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Suzy.

Sarah Brichford ’81, Feb. 28, 2022, Russiaville, Indiana. Sarah went on from Grinnell to earn a master’s in environmental studies from Yale University. In 1992, she married Jack D. Johnson. She worked as a water quality specialist in various positions for universities, nonprofits, and local government for over 30 years before retiring in 2019. Sarah was an outdoor recreation enthusiast and played several sports. She was an avid fly fisher. She played French horn with the Kokomo Chamber Brass, Howard County-IUK Community Band, and community theatre productions. She was a volunteer for many community groups and activities. She was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. She is survived by her husband, Jack, and a son and daughter.

Robert F. Hale ’82, Jan. 24, 2022, Michigan City, Indiana. Bob graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Law and worked as a Great Lakes merchant seaman. Survivors include his sister, Julie Hale ’79.

Nikolas Gregory ’90, Feb. 20, 2022, Andover, Massachusetts. Nik earned a doctorate from MIT in 1999. A longtime resident of Andover, where he lived with his wife of 30 years, Laura Meyer Gregory ’89, Nik enjoyed photography, walking, skiing, and spending time with family. After he died unexpectedly, his family suggested memorial donations could be made to the Nik Gregory ’90 Fund at Grinnell College. Nik is survived by his wife, Laura, and two daughters.

Roy B. Huggins ’99, Nov. 19, 2021, Portland, Oregon. Roy studied music at Grinnell, performing  in Grinnell Singers. In 2001 he transitioned to Portland, where he met Electra Allenton ’05. He worked in web development until he obtained a master’s in counseling from Portland State University (PSU). After graduating and marrying, he and his wife moved to Japan for three years. Upon their return to Portland, Roy was invited back to PSU to teach. However, his life’s work and deep purpose was his multinational bilingual counseling practice and a nationally respected consulting company, which assists with HIPAA compliance. Roy was a GRASP volunteer from 2002 to 2013. He is survived by his wife, Electra.

James R. Schueller ’03, Feb. 8, 2022, Los Angeles. While attending Grinnell, Jim earned numerous varsity letters in baseball and football. After he received his bachelor’s in history, he lived in the Phoenix area for several years before moving to Los Angeles. Jim spent his life doing what he loved — meeting new people, being a free spirit, working as a professional physical fitness trainer, and playing the guitar in several bands. Jim loved his family dearly, rarely missing a large Schueller family gathering. Survivors include his parents, sister, two brothers, and four nieces.

Former Faculty

Ed Gilday, May 17, 2022, Grinnell, Iowa. Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies Ed Gilday taught countless Grinnell students about Asian religions and culture. After earning his bachelor’s in Asian studies, master’s in Buddhist studies, and doctorate in the history of religions, he worked at both Bowdoin College and the University of Colorado. He joined the Grinnell faculty in 1995. Over the course of two decades, he taught courses on Asian religions, including Buddhism and Chinese and Japanese religions. He chaired the religious studies department for many years and was a strong proponent of off-campus studies. Ed was beloved by students for his friendliness and for being invested in their success.

Mathilda Liberman, April 12, 2022, Lincolnwood, Illinois. Mathilda earned her bachelor’s at the University of Michigan and her master’s at the University of Connecticut. She started her career with Grinnell in 1960, when her husband, Myron Liberman, joined the faculty as a professor of English. Mathilda taught courses in the humanities and was instrumental in helping to develop and organize the Writing Lab. She was the lab’s first director and served in that role for more than two decades. Myron retired in 1987 and died in 1995. Mathilda was named lecturer emerita in English when she retired in 1997. Mathilda’s survivors include her two sons.

Sheila McCarthy, Jan. 11, 2022, Ithaca, New York. Sheila graduated from Emmanuel College with a bachelor’s in Russian. She went on to receive a master’s in Soviet area studies from Harvard and a doctorate in Russian literature from Cornell University. Shelia joined the College as an associate professor of Russian in 1973. She met her husband, Clifford “Cliff” Reid, here. They left Grinnell in the late 1980s to take faculty positions at Colby College in Waterville, Maine. Throughout her career, Sheila was known equally for her excellence as an instructor and for her care of students as individuals. She retired from Colby in 2009. Cliff Reid passed away in November 2021.

Gregg Narber

Longtime College board member, Des Moines civic leader

Gregg R. Narber ’68, Grinnell College Board of Trustees life trustee and a civic leader in Des Moines, Iowa, died Feb. 16, 2022, in Longmont, Colorado. He was 75.

Gregg believed fervently in education and actively pursued it all his life. He majored in political science and Latin American area studies at Grinnell, then earned his master’s in political science and law degree from Washington University (St. Louis), and a master’s and doctorate in history from the University of Iowa. He pursued additional studies in the political science doctoral program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and in the MFA program in painting at Drake University.

Gregg was editor-in-chief of the Washington University Law Quarterly and won awards for his scholarship. He taught history at Luther College and as a graduate instructor at the University of Iowa. He published works on Regionalist and New Deal art programs. Gregg was an AFS exchange student to Brazil in 1964, acquiring facility in Portuguese.

After law school, he did active duty as a trial judge advocate

in the Marine Corps. In a 27-year legal career with Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, Iowa, he became senior vice president and

general counsel; leaving that position to serve as a director of Principal’s joint venture in Brazil. He was a member of the house of delegates of the American Bar Association for several years.

Gregg’s other passions included reading, art, and music. He was on the board of the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra and a life trustee of the Des Moines Art Center, where he gifted important works to its collection and was president of the board for several years and a member and later chair of its acquisition committee. He was a member of the Des Moines Arts and Recreation Council, the City of Des Moines Public Art Commission, and the Des Moines National Poetry Festival. Gregg also wrote and lectured widely on regionalist and New Deal art programs.

Gregg served as a Grinnell College trustee from 2000 to 2012, then was named a life trustee. He was a member of the Grinnell College Museum of Art Leadership Council from 2015 to 2018.

Gregg shared 50 of his years with two remarkable women: Christann (Kice) Higley ’70, mother of his two sons; and Kathleen Joyce “Kathie” Andriano, with whom he adopted two daughters.

He is survived by his wife, Kathie; four children; six grandchildren; and a brother and sister. Christann also survives.

Norma Myers Runge ’42, Jan. 3, 2021, San Diego. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Runge ’42.

Leland J. “Bud” Hawley ’45, April 23, 2021, Laurens, Iowa. After Grinnell, Bud joined the U.S. Army, assigned to Little Rock, Arkansas, where he met and married Beverly Buckwalter. In 1945, he returned to Laurens to become the third generation in the family business, Hawley Insurance Agency. During their 28-year marriage, Bud and Bev raised four children. In 1987, he married Jeanette (Oleson) Johnson, and they enjoyed 34 years of marriage until she died in March 2021. Bud was an active, lifelong member of Laurens United Methodist Church and a past master of Masonic Grace Lodge #519, a master mason and 32nd degree Scottish rite mason, and a Shriner with Abu Bekr Temple. He enjoyed travel and visited all 50 states, much of Canada, and parts of Europe and Australia. A loyal Democrat and proud descendant of Iowa Pioneers, Bud was honored for his stewardship of the Hawley Home Place, an Iowa century farm since 1981. Survivors include a daughter, son, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Mary Watt Collinge ’48, March 11, 2021, Webster, New York. Mary trained and practiced as a home economist before “retiring” to raise a family. Later, she had numerous volunteer roles, including serving on the boards of the Rochester Presbyterian Home and the Penfield Public Library. She also volunteered for Webster Presbyterian Church, the Camp Fire Girls, Literacy Volunteers, and the Penfield Trail Committee. She was a proud member of PEO Sisterhood and enjoyed walking with the Wednesday Hikers and traveling. Survivors include a son, two daughters, and a grandson.

Julia “Tigger” Stimson Appel ’49, Sept. 27, 2021, Antigo, Wisconsin. Julia graduated from Grinnell with a major in biology, then earned a nursing degree as a private duty nurse. Julia and her husband, David, loved the outdoors. They enjoyed hiking, camping, and rock climbing as well as sailing and skiing. Julia also became interested in writing. She joined the Romance Writers of America Appleton chapter in 1989. She completed a novel and wrote articles for travel magazines. Survivors include her three children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Isadore Berman ’49, Oct. 6, 2021, Grinnell, Iowa. Isadore received his MBA from Columbia University in New York in 1951. He was a U.S. Army World War ll veteran who served in Europe. In 1956, he married Ida Roseman, and the couple made their home in Grinnell, where they raised two children. Isadore worked with his father for many years and then as a partner with his brother until around 1986, continuing to run Sam Berman and Sons along with his son into an ever more successful scrap iron and metal business in Grinnell. He was a 75-plus-year member of the Grinnell American Legion, VFW, Grinnell Masonic Lodge, Grinnell Elks Lodge, and the Tifereth Israel Synagogue in Des Moines. He was an avid reader, held a keen interest in investing, and loved to travel. He served as a New Student Orientation volunteer for the College in 2009. Survivors include his daughter and son, and three grandchildren.

Katherine Mueller Smith ’49, Sept. 19, 2021, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Eleanor Kennedy Walters ’49, Oct. 5, 2021, Marion, Iowa. Eleanor attended Grinnell for two years, then graduated from the University of Iowa. She married William Walters in 1953. Eleanor taught high school for 15 years, including 11 years in Wyoming, Iowa. She was very active in the Onslow and Wyoming Presbyterian Churches and served as an elder, a youth fellowship adviser, Sunday school teacher, and circle chairwoman. She was a member of the PEO Sisterhood of Anamosa, the Wyoming Library board, and numerous other community and social organizations. Eleanor was exceptionally well read, loved history, had a keen sense of humor, and enjoyed playing cards and games and spending time with her family. Survivors include her husband, two sons, five grandchildren, and six great- grandchildren.

Jerald A. Anderson ’50, Sept. 8, 2021, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Jerry graduated from Grinnell as a member of Phi Beta Kappa. In 1962, he married Wanda Sorenson. After serving in the U.S. Army, Jerry worked at the United Fire and Casualty Co. in the underwriting department until retiring as an assistant vice president in 1990. Jerry is best known for his humble, hospitable manner and quick wit. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and singing in the church choir. In retirement, he served on the boards of the Linn County Chaplaincy and the Linn Community Food Bank. Jerry was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years. He is survived by a daughter, son, and two grandsons.

Shirley Miller McFarland ’50, July 14, 2021, Des Moines, Iowa. Shirley met Robert A. “Bob” McFarland ’49 at Grinnell and married him in 1948. She later received her bachelor’s in English literature from the University of Iowa. Her husband’s career in education had their family living in several communities in Iowa, where she not only raised her family but was very involved in community activities. While living in Marshalltown, she volunteered as a tutor for minority students in the schools. She continued tutoring when she and Bob moved to Estes Park, Colorado, in their retirement. She was active in church as a deacon and in the choir, active in the senior center, and was a P.E.O. sister. She was preceded in death by her husband. Survivors include three children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Katherine “Casey” Cosandey Snook ’50, Aug. 10, 2021, Alpine, Texas. Katherine lived much of her young life in Minneapolis. At Grinnell she met her husband, Donald Snook ’49, while singing in the choir. Don’s work with the state department and later, Esso Middle East, took the couple to Syria and then to Libya for a total of 18 years. During that time, their daughters were born. In addition to starting and singing with various music groups, the couple enjoyed picnicking in the countryside, visiting picturesque villages, exploring the coast and the Sahara Desert and Greek and Roman antiquities, and roaming through historic Mediterranean cities. In 1969, the family returned to the United States. A member of the Unitarian Church, Katherine served on its board of trustees and as president of the Saugatuck Valley Audubon Society and volunteered at the Westport Historical Society and the Westport Arts Center. In addition to enjoying walks and picnics in the countryside and on the shore, she and Don sang with several local church and community chorales and the Westport Madrigal Singers. In 2016, Katherine and Don moved to Alpine, Texas. Surviving family members include her husband; three daughters, Laura Snook ’74, Ann, and Helen; and four grandchildren.

Dorothy Wagner Boettcher ’51, Oct. 12, 2021, East Lansing, Michigan. A naturally gifted musician from a very early age, Dorothy continued her professional training at Grinnell, majoring in music. She excelled in piano, flute, and voice — exhibiting those skills through musical tours and local performances. In 1951, she married Alvin Boettcher and moved to Michigan, where Dorothy began to teach music in the Lansing school system as well as piano lessons in the home. She received her master’s in education from Michigan State University while raising three children. She taught fifth grade in the East Lansing school system for 20 years. Retirement was filled with continued participation in The Peoples Church choir and chorale groups, to whom she lent her powerful soprano voice. Frequent European vacations with Alvin, who died in 2019, were also a favorite pastime. She is survived by a daughter, two sons, a grandchild, and six great-grandchildren.

M. Mercedes Bolger Biedermann ’52, Oct. 3, 2021, Norristown, Pennsylvania. Mercedes married John Stewart Biedermann in 1957 and moved to Philadelphia, where John co-owned a wholesale plywood business. She joined the Junior Saturday Club, where she made friends, enjoyed social events, and engaged in community outreach. Her ultimate passion was bridge, which she learned to play in college. She was still playing at the retirement community where she last lived. Survivors include two children and five grandchildren.

John H. Sitton ’52, Oct. 12, 2021, Ruston, Louisiana. John was born in Denver and graduated from Denver schools and Grinnell. While working in California, he met and married Linda Roberts. He worked in restaurant and retail management up and down the West Coast. He enthusiastically served his church while finding time for merchant groups, Rotary, Judicial Justice Commission, California grand jury, and other civic and volunteer causes. Survivors include his wife, Linda; a son and daughter; and eight grandchildren.

R. James Bagnall ’53, Sept. 25, 2021, Marshalltown, Iowa. During high school, Jim worked part-time at Arbie Feeds in Marshalltown. After attending Grinnell, he graduated from Marshalltown Community College and went to work full time at Arbie as assistant manager. He married Elizabeth “Bette” Watson in 1951. In 1969, he was promoted to president and general manager, semi-retiring in 1995. Jim was active in community and church activities and volunteered with seven organizations: Jaycees, Noon Lions, United Way, Marshalltown Area Community Hospital, and the Industrial Bureau of the Chamber of Commerce. He held many offices in the First Baptist Church (Journey Church) and taught Sunday School for several years. He loved traveling, fishing, woodworking, watching sports, and reading. He enjoyed vacationing with his family and holiday gatherings. He was a man of integrity and generosity and left a great spiritual legacy. Jim is survived by his wife, Bette; three children; nine grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Joan Furhman Jones ’54, Oct. 14, 2021, Springfield, Missouri. At Grinnell, Joan majored in art. Later, during an 18-year professional public relations career with the YWCA in Iowa, Texas, Virginia, and California and with the American Red Cross in Los Angeles, she further honed her graphic skills. She married Earl “Dick” Jones in 1972. Their relationship lasted 49 years. In 1973, Joan began a 45-year career doing what she loved most — painting, specializing in watercolors and pastels. Her favorite subjects were figures, mostly models, and townscapes from locations in Mexico, Norway, and the central coast of California. During this period, Joan created hundreds of paintings and her work was shown in numerous juried shows and galleries, and she received dozens of honors and awards. In recent years, she took up jewelry design and produced many online video programs. Joan was a long- time member of P.E.O., Chapter DP, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, subsequently of Bethany Lutheran Church, and more recently of Trinity Church of the Nazarene, all in Lompoc, California. She is survived by her husband.

Barbara Scott Couve ’55, Oct. 3, 2021, Deer Park, Illinois. In high school, Barbara was a multisport athlete, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of the Student Council. At Grinnell, she was on the Homecoming court and was Mardi Gras queen as well as a Langan sweetheart. After graduation, she worked as a photo typesetter for BC Lettering and was a teacher’s aide at Central Road School in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. She was happiest when traveling with her spouse of 62 years, Carl Forrest Couve ’54, or cheering on her children and grandchildren at their activities. She was a member of the Grinnell Reunion Committee from 2004 to 2010. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl, and is survived by three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great- grandson.

Frank W. Hays ’55, Sept. 26, 2021, Bonita Springs, Florida.

Edwin O. Jantz ’57, Sept. 1, 2021, Southbury, Connecticut. Ed majored in economics at Grinnell, then joined the Air Force and was able to leverage his early military experience in a progression of sales roles. He later went on to earn a master’s from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Ed married Nancy Gail Holzer in 1960. They continued to move as Ed was promoted in various sales roles in Colorado until he made a career change into city management with a move to Los Alamos, New Mexico. The family later moved to Texas, where Ed focused on municipal purchasing and held roles as director for purchasing for the city of Dallas, county of Dallas, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. After retirement, Ed and Gail moved to Connecticut. Ed was well known for his optimism, his sense of humor, and kindness to all. He lived an active and engaged life and loved hiking, fishing, gardening, and reading nonfiction and financial publications. He is survived by his wife, Gail; three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great- granddaughter; and his brother, Gary L. Jantz ’62.

James C. McKinnell ’57, May 15, 2021, Red Lion, Pennsylvania. After he completed his undergraduate studies at Grinnell, Jim spent a year at Eden Seminary in St. Louis, then completed his ministry education with Bethany Biblical Seminary, Chicago, in 1961. At Bethany Seminary, he met Letha Miller, who he married in 1959. Jim’s pastoral ministry included student pastorates at Grinnell and in St. Louis; he and Letha did seminary internship pastorates with Brethren congregations in Maryland. Jim and Letha went on to serve several Brethren congregations. Jim also completed doctor of ministry studies at Bethany Seminary. Bible interpretation was his major interest. Jim enjoyed gardening, playing guitar, singing, family genealogy, and making entries in his diary for over 60 years. Jim was preceded in death by Letha in 2018. He is survived by two sons, five grandchildren, and two great- grandsons.

Doris Koerner Willoughby ’57, Sept. 8, 2021, Lakewood, Colorado. Doris graduated from Boulder (Colorado) High School as class valedictorian in 1953 and majored in education at Grinnell. She taught second grade in Cedar Rapids, Iowa for 11 years. She married D. Curtis Willoughby in 1967. From the time they met, Doris became a driver and reader assistant for Curtis, one of the first blind electrical engineers in the country. Doris received her certification in the teaching of blind children in 1969 after studying during the summers and evenings. In 1972, the Willoughbys moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where Doris taught blind children. They moved to the Denver area in 1993, and Doris received a master’s from the University of Northern Colorado soon after. Doris taught blind children in the Adams 12 School District near Denver. She later taught blind adults at the Colorado Training Center for the Blind, where she helped students prepare for citizenship and the GED test, among other things. She was a pioneer and leader in the education of blind children for at least four decades and wrote or co-authored four books on that subject. At its 50th anniversary convention, the National Federation of the Blind honored Doris with its highest award in education: the Distinguished Teacher of Blind Children Award. Doris was an active member of the United Methodist Church. She is survived by her husband.

James David Schenken ’58, April 2021, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Thomas J. Soper ’60, April 17, 2021, Sturgis, Michigan. Tom, a longtime distance runner, is survived by his wife, Lucy Ann Zimmerman; a son, daughter, stepson, and stepdaughter; and four grandsons.

Charles “Chuck” M. Palmer ’61, Nov. 7, 2021, Des Moines, Iowa. Chuck spent his life dedicated to the mental health and well-being of children and families. After graduating from Grinnell and the University of Chicago, he began a six-decade career in human services. He spent time at the Child Guidance Center and United Way before joining and eventually leading the Iowa Department of Human Services. He was named the director of DHS twice, first in 1989 until 1999, and again in 2011 until 2017. His professional career also included roles at the Institute for Social and Economic Development and the Iowa Healthcare Collaborative, among others. He served as an adjunct professor at Drake University and University of Iowa. Chuck was also active in local and national volunteer and community organizations, including the American Red Cross and National Association of Social Workers. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Karen Heise Palmer ’61; and two children and two grandchildren.

Gary A. Hanson ’63, Sept. 6, 2021, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Gary majored in history at Grinnell. He spent the summer of 1962 with a family near Bilbao, Spain, as part of the Experiment in International Living. He earned a master’s and doctorate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He spent 1967–68 in the Soviet Union with the IREX U.S. government exchange doing research in Moscow and St. Petersburg and traveling to Central Asia and Caucasia. He taught Russian and European history at the University of Saskatchewan from 1969 to 2000. Favorite courses were the Russian history survey, nationalism and the nationalities of the Soviet Union, Stalin and Stalinism, and especially a history of Siberia, his research interest. Activities included Amnesty International, the Canadian International Council, and the Saskatoon Stamp Club, and he belonged to Zion Lutheran Church. He especially enjoyed trips to Yugoslavia, the Republic of South Africa, Portugal, and Argentina.

Raymond B. Cooper ’64, July 24, 2021, Sylacauga, Alabama. Ray was employed by Kimberly Clark Corp. as a director of finance for 42 years with his last position in Waco, Texas. While there, Ray participated in Camp Fire USA and served as president of the local chapter. Ray officially retired from Kimberly Clark in 2007. He enjoyed golfing, woodworking, lawn care, watching television, living on the lake and, most of all, spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, JoAnne; two daughters; and five grandchildren.

William S. Johnson ’64, Sept. 4, 2021, North Liberty, Iowa. Bill graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Grinnell and then attended the University of Chicago on a Fulbright scholarship. He later moved to Iowa City and earned a second degree in music from the University of Iowa. Bill loved classical music and was an accomplished pianist who taught piano and gave concerts. He was fluent in German, Italian, Russian, and French and enjoyed reading classic books in their original languages. He especially enjoyed a meal with wine and conversing with friends who enjoyed his dry sense of humor. In his view, he was a “tough cookie” who valiantly dealt with health issues throughout his life.

Donald Reimer ’64, Sept. 1, 2021, Broomfield, Colorado. Don majored in political science at Grinnell, then joined the Air Force to become a B-52 navigator. He served for five years, then earned a teaching certificate and taught in California for a few years. For several years, Don was general manager with Modern Farm Systems. He married Beverly (Bev) Mischke Reimer in 1975. After Modern Farms Systems was sold, Don and Bev bought Colorado Health Food Store in Boulder, which they owned and operated until 1999. He served on the Flatirons Habitat for Humanity board of directors for several years and was a financial supporter of many national and local charitable organizations. Don is survived by his wife, Bev; three daughters, including Sarah Reimer Dawson ’99; six grandchildren; and a great- granddaughter.

Jean Terry West ’64, May 17, 2021, Covington, Kentucky. Terry was always active and entrepreneurial: teaching natural childbirth, starting a restaurant, and then working at restaurants and catering businesses all over the country, including Dallas, New Mexico, Connecticut, and Little Rock, Arkansas. In later years, she still ran a catering business from her house and cooked every week as a volunteer at the local shelter. She was a Grinnell regional volunteer from 2015 to 2017.

Barry M. Anderson ’65, Nov. 4, 2021, Carthage, Illinois. Barry received his law degree in 1968 from the University of Iowa Law School and master’s in law enforcement and justice administration from Western Illinois University. He practiced law in Keokuk, Iowa, for over 30 years. He was elected Lee County attorney and served as a magistrate judge in Lee County. He chaired the Iowa Criminal Law Section of the Iowa Bar Association and was an active member of the Indigent Defense Task Force in Iowa. He later became an assistant professor in the LEJA School at WIU.

Bruce “Trick” M. Beckord ’65 M.D., Aug. 29, 2021, Boulder, Colorado. Bruce attended Grinnell and the University of Iowa Medical School. He married and reared four kids in Estes Park, where he helped found the first hospital, and in Boulder, where he was head of sports medicine at CU. Bruce led a life full of adventure and traveled the world. He loved his family, the Denver Broncos, and playing pickleball. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Lou; his two sons and two daughters; and six grandchildren.

Dennis R. Homerin ’65, Aug. 27, 2021, Los Angeles. Dennis, who served on the College’s Board of Trustees from 1975 to 1994, first came to Grinnell in 1961. He served on the student government association and was a letterman on the varsity football team, which won the Midwest Conference Championship in 1962. He graduated in 1965 with a major in history. Dennis went on to earn his law degree in 1968 from the University of Minnesota, where he was a three-year Dean’s Honor Scholarship award winner and editor of the Law Review. After law school, Dennis moved to Chicago, where he joined the firm of Seyfarth, Shaw, Fairweather & Geraldson and later became a partner. He was later named vice president and labor counsel for Tribune Co., where he helped negotiate player contracts for the then-owners of the Chicago Cubs. Dennis went on to become a partner at Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue before retiring to start his own consulting business and spend more time with his children and grandchildren. Dennis was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, an Eagle Scout, avid reader, history buff, music lover, and founding member of the Joe Denny Band, in which he played trombone. He enjoyed traveling and spending time at his home in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, before moving west to enjoy his retirement. Survivors include four children; four grandchildren; his sister, Mary Homerin Ashcraft ’71; and brother in-law, Mark Ashcraft ’71.

Susan Taylor ’65, Sept. 27, 2021, Austin, Texas. Sue, who double- majored in journalism and American history at Grinnell, spent her professional life as a journalist. She worked for United Press International in Chicago and recalled often her experiences covering Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Chicago Campaign in 1966. After moving to Austin in the 1970s, she worked for the Austin American Statesman in various positions, including wire editor and assistant city editor, while mentoring scores of neophyte journalists. She retired in the late 1990s. After Chicago and before Austin, she traveled the country in an RV. She enjoyed other memorable trips to Hawaii, the Galapagos Islands, and Cape Cod. She was an avid reader, always with stacks of newspaper nearby and a good book to share. She adored animals, loved children, and was an ardent supporter of land and water conservation.

Roger W. Able ’68, Oct. 2, 2021, Haines City, Florida. Roger was a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. At Grinnell, he majored in biology and played basketball. After attending management training at General Electric, he spent most of his career in appliance sales and sales management. He retired in 2003 and with his wife, Marie, moved to Florida. Roger was always involved in service to his communities. He was actively involved in his churches; he served as CEO and president of Lutheran Homes of Oshkosh (1997–2000), and for years he provided formal and informal planned giving advice to his Grinnell classmates and to the College. He was a reunion committee member from 2004 to 2011 and class solicitor in 2011. It was his idea to gift Grinnell a life insurance policy on himself; its cash value was large enough four years ago for Roger and Marie to turn it into the Able Endowed Scholarship. Roger was proud of his Grinnell legacy — his maternal grandfather Herbert Risser was class of 1908 — and the scholarship supports a legacy student. Roger’s support for Grinnell athletics is reflected on the donor plaque in the lobby of the Bear Recreation and Athletic Center. Roger is survived by his wife, two daughters, and seven grandchildren.

Joshua Sachs ’71, Nov. 7, 2020, Evanston, Illinois. Survivors include three children and three grandchildren.

Nancy Ackerman Schofield ’71, Oct. 5, 2021, Menomonie, Wisconsin. Nancy majored in mathematics at Grinnell and married Ken Schofield ’71 on campus the day after graduation. Nancy and Ken moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where Ken attended the University of Wisconsin Law School and Nancy worked as a computer programmer for the UW’s Institute for Research on Poverty. They moved to Menomonie, Wisconsin, in 1977 and never left. Nancy received a master’s in clothing, textiles, and related arts from UW-Stout in 1979, teaching intermittently in the home economics department from 1979 to 1998. She commenced a doctoral program at the University of Minnesota in 1994. Nancy received her doctorate from the University of Minnesota in design, housing, and apparel in 2000. By that time, she was teaching classes in UW-Stout’s College of Engineering, Technology and Management (CTEM). She taught an array of computer-aided design courses full time from 1998 to 2013. After retiring as a full professor in 2013, Nancy continued to teach part time until 2015. In addition to her teaching, she took seriously her role as a mentor to women engineering students, including being faculty adviser for the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). She was active in other community and civic organizations, including her children’s elementary and middle schools, League of Women Voters, Master Gardeners, City of Menomonie Urban Forestry Board, Stepping Stones garden tour, Dunn County Historical Society’s Fulton’s Workshop, and others. She also was a Grinnell reunion committee member from 2011 to 2020. Nancy is survived by her husband, two brothers, two sons, and four grandchildren.

Leonard M. Kurz ’75, Nov. 5, 2021, Piermont, New York. Leonard graduated from Grinnell with a major in history and from Stanford University with a master’s in film and television production. He was CEO, president, and creative force behind Forest Creatures Entertainment, a motion picture, television, and new media production company established in 1993. In 2007, Forest Creatures Entertainment produced Kitka and Davka in Concert: Old and New World Jewish Music, which has been broadcast extensively on the PBS network. He was producer, director, and writer of the feature-length documentary Free the Children; producer, director, and writer of the television documentary Accused of Being Communist; a co-producer of Maangamizi: The Ancient One, the first film from Tanzania to be considered for an Academy Award; and producer, director, and writer of Early Misgivings. He also was a script reader for Francis Ford Coppola. He was a founding director (U.S. board) of Free the Children, an international organization which has the unique mission of creating a global network of children helping children through education. Leonard served as a director and officer of the Kurz Family Foundation. He played a significant role in establishing two endowed professorships at Brooklyn College: the Herbert Kurz Chair in Constitutional Rights and Civil Liberties and the Herbert Kurz Chair of Finance and Risk Management, as well as a program that assists black and Latino male Brooklyn College students. He was a founding member of the State University of New York’s Chancellor’s Society and received awards for his philanthropic work. Leonard served as an internship host for Grinnell students from 2010 to 2016. He was a Wilson Program speaker in 2016. Leonard established several endowed funds at Grinnell to support student career exploration and research in the areas of peace studies, sustainability, and human rights. He was also a generous supporter of the Peace and Conflict Studies program at Grinnell.

Dennis D. Ashby ’78, Sept. 7, 2021, Grinnell, Iowa. Dennis was raised on a farm west of Grinnell. After graduation, he went on to earn a degree from Drake Law School. In 1979, he married Carolyn Cline. After law school, he worked part time for the law offices at Farm Bureau while starting his own law practice in Des Moines. He had a rewarding career helping farmers during the farm crisis and working with small businesses. He taught nontraditional students for Upper Iowa University-Des Moines Center for 30 years. He also taught undergraduates at Grandview University for 15 years. For seven years in the 1990s, he served as pastoral care minister at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Des Moines. In 1998, he started Well Read Books, a used bookstore in Des Moines, selling it in 2015. He retired from all his endeavors in 2017, returning to his childhood home west of Grinnell. He was an active member of the Basilica of St. John Catholic Church in Des Moines and St. Mary Catholic Church in Grinnell. He was a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus and, more recently, the Elks in Grinnell. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and nine grandchildren.

Nina Frankel ’79, Oct. 20, 2021, San Francisco. Nina spent two years at Grinnell before embarking on her adventurous life. She traveled, studied, and worked in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Portugal. In 1981, she graduated from University of California-Berkeley with a degree in Latin American studies. A native San Franciscan, Nina had a multidecade career as a public health advocate, campaigner for free and fair elections, and outspoken defender of international justice, refugee safety, and human and civil rights. She attended Harvard’s School of Public Health, graduating with a master’s in population sciences in 1986. She later worked around the world on AIDS prevention, abortion counseling, election monitoring, and refugee resettlement. She supported a wide range of liberal, philanthropic causes and was known for her frequent letters to the editor as well as acerbic and witty protests to organizations about unethical business practices.

Jean Ward Angstman ’80, Sept. 20, 2021, Lakewood, Colorado. Jean graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Grinnell with a major in French. She completed her formal education with a master’s in speech pathology and audiology from the University of Denver in 1984 and began a long career as a speech pathologist in the Jefferson County, Colorado, public schools. She married Burke Angstman in 1985. Jean had many hobbies and interests, including folk dancing, quilting, doll making, cooking, traveling, and reading romance novels. She loved the outdoors, especially hiking around her summer home in Grand Lake, Colorado. She is survived by her husband; two sons; a granddaughter; her sister, Teresa Ward ’83; brother in-law, Andrew Nelson ’82; and niece, Molly Nelson ’21.

James F. Goodfellow ’82, July 12, 2021, Oakland, California. In addition to his studies at Grinnell, James studied in Russia, was a Marshall Scholar, and received a master’s in economics at Cambridge University, England. He went on to earn his law degree from Yale Law School.

Richard A. Bohm ’86, Nov. 7, 2021, Palmetto, Florida. Rich majored in economics at Grinnell and earned his MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. He spent his career in the defense industry at McDonnell-Douglas, Boeing, American Ordnance, and General Dynamics. An avid and curious traveler, Rich visited many corners of the world and spent time working in France and Saudi Arabia. Rich rescued several dogs, to which he devoted much love and care. He is survived by his wife, Marissa Albano Bohm.

Former Faculty

James Lindberg, Sept. 23, 2021, Des Moines, Iowa. Visiting professor of chemistry at Grinnell from 2002 until 2015, he came to Grinnell after taking early retirement from Drake University in Des Moines. He taught organic chemistry to hundreds of students at Grinnell. His passion for teaching and mentoring was evident in his interactions with students and his generosity with colleagues.

Clifford Reid, Nov. 6, 2021, Waterville, Maine. Cliff, former professor of economics, was a Grinnell faculty member for 14 years. He left Grinnell in 1987 to become a professor of economics at Colby College in Waterville, where he taught until retiring in 2009. He received a bachelor’s in economics from George Washington University and a doctorate in economics in 1973 from Princeton University, where he developed a research interest in the role of discrimination in American life — in housing, employment, and wages — that he would continue to pursue throughout his academic career. He was legendary for his rigorous standards in the classroom and was a caring mentor to generations of students at Grinnell and Colby.

Emily Pfitsch

Beloved Grinnell Icon and Honorary Degree Recipient

Emily Ann Pfitsch D.H.L ’17, longtime friend of the College and recipient of an honorary doctor of humane letters in 2017, died Jan. 21, 2022, at the age of 96.

Though she never held an official position at Grinnell, Emily was a beloved member of the community and a remarkable ambassador for the College for more than 70 years.

Emily arrived in Grinnell with her husband, John, in 1948. While he began his career in Grinnell’s athletics department, she studied Spanish and earned a teaching certificate, leading to a 24-year career teaching Spanish and supporting international programs in the Grinnell schools.

She and John traveled widely, living for times in Panama, Ecuador, Portugal, and Spain. She loved sharing her passion for the Spanish language and international cultures with her family, friends, and students and regularly hosted exchange students in her home.

The honorary degree Emily received from the College in 2017 recognized her influence on the College community, most notably “her boys” — several generations of Grinnell College athletes coached by John who found a steady source of support with Emily.

Emily provided a warm and welcoming presence for African American scholar-athletes attending Grinnell in the 1950s and 1960s, regularly hosting students and their families in her home overnight. She also hosted the annual picnic for alumni soccer players in her backyard for more than 30 years.

She continued to host trustees who returned to campus, and she remained a visible and engaging presence at numerous Grinnell events. She will forever be known by Grinnellians as someone who made the College feel like a second home.

Emily is survived by her children, Jack, Connie, and Bill; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and John, her husband of 64 years.

Visit Smith Funeral Home and search for “Pfitsch” for more information and tributes. The Pfitsch family has suggested that memorial contributions may be directed to the John and Emily Pfitsch Scholarship at Grinnell College. Give online or by mail, Office of Development and Alumni Relations, Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa 50112.

D. Beth Fellows Green ’42, May 30, 2021, Chesterfield, Missouri. She was 101. Beth graduated from the University of Iowa. She enjoyed golf — she scored two holes-in-one — bowling, and Big Ten sports. Survivors include four children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Lois Starner Stelpflug ’46, June 21, 2021, Ankeny, Iowa. After graduating from Grinnell, Lois taught high school for a year in Storm Lake, Iowa. She married Earl Stelpflug, with whom she had three daughters. She was a crossword puzzle whiz and tough to beat at Scrabble. Survivors include her daughters, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Virginia Wilson Simons ’47, April 21, 2021, Arlington, Massachusetts. Ginny majored in psychology at Grinnell. For several years, she worked in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. After marrying David Simons and raising their children, she earned a master’s in education and worked as a teacher in New York for more than 20 years. Survivors include three children and five grandchildren. 

Phyllis Pincus Marco ’48, June 21, 2021, Western Springs, Illinois. After Grinnell, Phyllis earned a master’s from Governor’s State University and became one of the first speech therapists in the Chicago Public Schools. She also loved theatre and acting and was involved with many organizations related to that passion, as well as volunteering for community organizations. Survivors include three children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Gertrude “Trudy” Rosenberg Rothschild ’48, April 25, 2021, Porter Ranch, California. Trudy majored in history, graduating Phi Beta Kappa, and continued with graduate studies at the University of Chicago, where she met her husband, Bill Felix Rothschild. The family settled in southern California, where Trudy worked in the Los Angeles Public Library system and the Anaheim Public Library. Survivors include three children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. 

Valois Jensen Brintnall ’50, Aug. 6, 2021, Marshalltown, Iowa. Valois majored in English and minored in Spanish and music. She met Lee Brintnall ’50 (deceased) at Grinnell and they married in 1952. They spent much of their life together in Marshalltown, where Valois was active in her church, clubs, and community organizations. Survivors include two children, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and her brother, Ronald Jensen ’53.

James L. Evenson ’50, Sept. 19, 2020, Anchorage, Alaska. Jim studied art at Grinnell and then earned a master’s in art history and an MFA at the University of Iowa. In 1956, he and his wife, Nedra, moved to Alaska, where Jim taught high school English and art and coached basketball. Jim was a popular member of many boards and committees throughout Alaska due to his fairness and sensitivity to and appreciation of the concerns of all. Survivors include his son and grandson.

F. Addison Jones ’50, June 18, 2021, Grinnell, Iowa. Addison played football at Grinnell and was named All-Conference center in 1948–49. He married his wife, Marion Austin, in 1950 and raised three sons. After working at a bank in Chicago and serving two years in the U.S. Coast Guard, Addison returned to Grinnell in 1954 and spent the rest of his career at Grinnell State Bank, where he worked alongside his father, sons, and grandchildren and was deeply involved in community organizations. Survivors include his two younger sons, seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. 

Claude C. Noyes ’51, April 23, 2021, Rochester, New York. After majoring in political science at Grinnell, Claude earned a master’s at the School of Advanced International Studies, Johns Hopkins University. In the 1960s, he worked in academic book publishing. In 1974 he moved to the University of Rochester, River Campus Libraries, where he was head of collection development and known for his intellectual curiosity, quick mind, and breadth of knowledge. He’s survived by his wife, a daughter, and a grandson.

Norma Henry Poehlein ’51, June 5, 2021, Clermont, Florida. Norma attended Grinnell and Iowa State University. She married Vernon Poehlein in 1949 and raised four daughters in Charles City, Iowa. She enjoyed volunteering at the hospital and hospice care. Survivors include her husband, daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Ruth Bohstedt Palmer ’51, April 22, 2021, Grinnell, Iowa. A native Grinnellian, Ruth and her husband, Virgil Palmer (deceased), farmed near Newburg. Ruth also worked as a cashier in the treasurer’s office at Grinnell. Survivors include three children, six grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Donald K. Slocum ’51, Nov. 9, 2020, Broomfield, Colorado.

Dr. Robert A. Blome ’52, May 19, 2021, Nampa, Idaho. Bob grew up in Iowa City and played varsity golf in high school and at Grinnell. He graduated from medical school at the University of Iowa in 1955 and completed a surgical residency at the Iowa City VA Medical Center. In 1963 he moved to Idaho, where he opened a surgical practice and enjoyed outdoor activities. Survivors include his wife, Dixie Weeks and three daughters from his first marriage, four stepchildren, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Anne Ayres Borner ’52, June 8, 2021, West Chester, Ohio.

The Rev. Harold “Hal” Harrison ’52, June 6, 2021, Concord, New Hampshire. Hal earned a master of divinity degree at Andover Newton Theological School and was ordained in his hometown of Cromwell, Iowa, in 1956. He focused on Christian education and served churches in New England. Survivors include two sons and two grandchildren.

Lettie Rasmusson Merriam ’52, May 26, 2021, Gilbert, Arizona. Lettie was one of the first flight attendants for American Airlines. Lettie was an accomplished artist who used her artistic skill to remember her travel adventures, painting landscapes of Africa, China, and Europe. Survivors include her children, four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Dr. David R. Dickson ’53, Oct. 4, 2020, Miami Lakes, Florida. Dave came to Grinnell from Wheaton, Illinois, and lived in Langan Hall all four years. He became a specialist in cleft-palate surgery and a director of the Cleft Palate Center at the University of Pittsburgh. 

Barbara Wormhoudt Hoots ’53, March 31, 2021, Lafayette, California. Barbara studied English at Grinnell and after graduating from the University of Wisconsin was recruited to work for an insurance company. She married her husband, Bob Hoots, in 1958. Barbara enjoyed traveling with Bob and being active in her church. Survivors include her husband, three children, and seven grandchildren. 

Lindley C. Stacey ’53, June 7, 2021, Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Lin joined the U.S. Navy after graduation and served in the Korean War. After completing his active duty, he took a job as a computer programmer with Western Electric and remained in the U.S. Naval Reserve, retiring at the rank of captain in 1984. Late in life he became a substitute teacher, his true calling. Survivors include his wife, DeOnn Atherton Stacey ’55; five children, including Gordon Stacey ’79; 13 grandchildren, including Kristen Stacey ’16; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, James Stacey ’57; and niece, Michelle Stacey ’79.

Paul D. Webster ’53, June 2, 2021, Wayzata, Minnesota. Paul served with the U.S. Navy in Korea from 1951 to 1953 and then for 24 years in the reserve. He spent his career at Webster Lumber Co., a sawmilling and manufacturing business started by his grandfather in 1902, serving as its president from 1962 through 2007. He is survived by

his wife, Mary, and two daughters, two grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. 

Joseph S. Barnes ’54, Feb. 26, 2021, Peabody, Massachusetts. After his degree in comparative literature at Grinnell, Joe joined the U.S. Air Force. He flew cargo planes to bases around the world. He worked for Sylvania, RCA, and General Electric in engineering production management and was a committed volunteer with youth organizations. He sang bass in his church choir for more than 50 years. Survivors include two children.

Joanne Boeckling Olsen ’54, June 18, 2021, Grass Valley, California. Joanne met her husband, James Olsen ’55, when he was waiting tables in Quad Dining Hall. After graduation, she tried different jobs — secretary, kindergarten teacher — before buying a small shop in Evanston, Illinois, which she grew into a successful bath store with several locations. She enjoyed birdwatching, searching for wildflowers, and hunting for mushrooms. Survivors include her husband, two children, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

LaVonne Kopecky Plambeck ’54, April 28, 2021, Omaha, Nebraska. LaVonne loved music and taught high school music before discovering her calling to early childhood education. She earned certification in Montessori education as well as a master’s and doctorate in education. She became a prominent leader in the field of early childhood education. Survivors include her husband, Don Plambeck, and two daughters.

Bessie Williams Session ’54, Feb. 11, 2021, Philadelphia.

Barbara Bursa Martin ’56, Feb. 7, 2021, Tampa, Florida. Barbara majored in chemistry at Grinnell, where she met fellow chemistry major Dean Martin ’55. They married in 1956 while both graduate students at Pennsylvania State University. Barbara spent over 35 years doing research with Dean in chemistry at the University of South Florida, which led to about 70 publications in peer-reviewed journals and their involvement with five books. She also co-edited Florida Scientist with her husband for 26 years. She won an Alumni Award in 1981 and volunteered in various capacities for Grinnell for many years. Survivors include her husband; six children, including Eric Martin ’91; and five grandchildren.

David “Quimby” Day ’57, Jan. 3, 2021, Harlingen, Texas. Quimby joined the U.S. Air Force after Grinnell and moved in 1958 with his bride, Lois Fredregill Day ’60, to Texas, where they raised three children. He worked in life insurance, helping clients with financial planning. He was also an elder in his church and served on his class reunion planning committee from 2005 to 2017. Survivors include his wife, three children, and four grandchildren. 

Susan Brewton Hansen West ’57, Dec. 19, 2020, Bella Vista, Arkansas. After graduating from the University of Iowa, Susan taught elementary school for several years. She later worked as a travel agent in Storm Lake, Iowa, and loved the opportunities to visit exotic places. Survivors include three children, seven grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. 

Sarah Crosby Cabot ’58, June 15, 2021, Lake City, Minnesota. Sarah completed her degree in education at the University of Minnesota. She taught elementary school for many years, finishing her career at Minneapolis Community College in the late 1990s. She also enjoyed artistic pursuits such as floor loom weaving. Her survivors include three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, as well as her beloved dog, Sophie.

Mary Garst Doyle ’58, May 25, 2020, Berkeley, California. Mary grew up on a farm in Coon Rapids, Iowa. In addition to Grinnell, she attended Bennington College and the Alfred School of Art and Design. She had her own pottery studio and was active in the arts and crafts scenes of Berkeley and Oakland, California.

Marilyn Cooke Walker ’58, Dec. 20, 2020, Pensacola, Florida. Marilyn taught kindergarten and first and second grades and later served as a Navy relief counselor for more than 20 years. She and Jon Walker ’59 were married 61 years. Survivors include her husband; three children, including Diane Walker Renaud ’84; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. 

David J. Fisher ’59, May 30, 2021, West Des Moines, Iowa. After Grinnell, David earned his law degree at the University of Iowa in 1962 and then married Dorrie Onthank. He worked for Onthank Co., an interior design firm, alongside his father-in-law, taking over as president in 1977. He served on many boards, including the Iowa Board of Regents. Survivors include his wife, three children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Andrew L. Johnson ’59, June 19, 2021, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. Andy studied ecology at Grinnell and earned a master’s in forest science at Yale. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he worked in conservation, eventually establishing the North American Land Trust. During his tenure as president of the trust, it protected from development more than 100,000 acres of natural resources in 19 states. Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Elizabeth, two children, and two grandchildren. 

Walter F. Giersbach ’61, Jan. 22, 2021, Manchester, New Jersey. Walter studied comparative literature, English, and journalism at Grinnell. After graduating, he served three years in the U.S. Army as a security analyst. He met his wife, Judy Hsiu-Yen Ho, while stationed in Taiwan. He worked in corporate communications for 30 years. In retirement, he continued to write short fiction and for local community publications. He was a longtime Grinnell volunteer, serving as his class fund director from 1978 to 2007. He’s survived by his two children, including Lisa Giersbach ’91, and three grandchildren.

Mary Jane Watts Gilliat ’61, Feb. 17, 2021, Olney, Maryland. Mary Jane was a GRASP volunteer from 1998 to 2011.

Jon K. Groteluschen ’61, June 2, 2021, Aiken, South Carolina. Jon was a physical education major and three-year letterman in basketball and golf. He started his career as a junior high math teacher. After getting his master’s from the University of Kentucky in 1969, he pursued a career in higher education administration. He served as vice president of business and finance, first at Carroll College in Wisconsin and then at Alma College in Michigan. Survivors include his wife, Marelle, and two daughters.

Ellen Weitz DeNelsky ’62, June 24, 2021, Cleveland, Ohio. Ellen met her husband, Garland DeNelsky ’60, at Grinnell. She completed her degree at Purdue University and after raising her three children, earned a certified financial planning license. She practiced financial planning for more than 20 years. Survivors include her husband, two children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. 

Martha “Marni” Hoskinson ’62,July 13, 2021, Bloomington, Indiana. She spent her professional life in the Chicago area. A certified professional secretary, Marni was named International Secretary of the Year in 1981. Survivors include her sister and two nephews. 

Pamela Haslam Allen ’63, May 28, 2021, Greensboro, North Carolina. Pam majored in biology at Grinnell and earned her physical therapy license from Duke University. She worked as a traveling therapist, served as director of rehabilitation at Annie Penn Hospital, worked in private practice, and did home health care. She was an avid equestrian and brought her horse, Gifted Marine, with her to Grinnell. Survivors include two children. 

Michael S. Horwatt ’63, Aug. 14, 2020, Reston, Virginia. In 1961, Michael was a leader of the “Grinnell 14,” a group of students who went to Washington, D.C., to demonstrate support for banning atmospheric nuclear testing. Michael met Sally Singer Brodsky ’63 as a freshman at Grinnell College, and they married the day after graduation. He graduated with majors in political science and voice and earned his law degree at the University of Virginia. During his law career, he practiced First Amendment law, land use and zoning law, civil rights law, and criminal defense. He shaped internet law in Virginia. Survivors include Sally, his former wife and dearest friend; two daughters; and four grandchildren, including grandson Jalyn Marks ’16.

Sharon Miller Kempner ’63, April 23, 2021, Houston. Sharon was an avid gardener and the bulb buyer for the Garden Club of Houston for many years. She rescued horses and donkeys and was a devoted mother and grandmother. Survivors include four children and 10 grandchildren.

Julia Chatterton Knutson ’63, July 8, 2020, Weirton, West Virginia. She married Gordon Knutson ’62 in 1965; he died in 2001. 

Gary G. Specker ’64, June 22, 2021, Minneapolis. He died of multiple myeloma. Gary was a physics major, reveling in the mentorship of Grant O. Gale. In 1966, Gary earned a master’s in industrial administration at Carnegie Mellon University and worked as an information technology professional at General Mills, Hewlett-Packard, and Silicon Graphics. He and his wife of 57 years, Sue Jurcheck Specker ’64, traveled widely with a special fondness for RV travel throughout North America, including trips to and around Alaska three times. He is survived by wife Sue, two sons, and four grandchildren.

Ellen Pearce Brooks ’66, July 11, 2021, Cornville, Arizona. Ellen died of vascular dementia. She majored in political science and joined the Peace Corps after graduation. After raising her children, she picked up her government career again, starting with the U.S. Census Bureau and then as a civil servant with the U.S. Air Force. Survivors include her three children and two grandchildren. 

Mary Curtis-Kellett ’66, April 11, 2021, Tucson, Arizona. After majoring in anthropology and sociology at Grinnell, Mary earned a master’s in library science. She spent her 31-year career as a medical librarian with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. She helped doctors with diagnosis and treatment information and patients with educating themselves about their own health. She’s survived by her husband, Richard Kellett. 

Frederick “Rick” S. Kuethe ’69, June 8, 2021, Dorchester, Massachusetts. After Grinnell, Rick studied at the Berklee College of Music. He was a jazz pianist, an Emmy-nominated composer, and a performing and recording artist. He owned and operated AirSound, a recording studio in downtown Boston, and produced eight albums of original music. In 2005, Rick turned his focus to the healing arts and developed a new career in long-distance energy therapy. He won an Alumni Award in 1999. Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Florence Aversa.

Steven R. Otto ’71, March 14, 2021, Santa Monica, California. Steve married his wife, Ramona, in Herrick Chapel after graduating from Grinnell. He earned a master’s in audiology at the University of Iowa and worked first at the Wendell Johnson Speech and Hearing Clinic and later as a researcher for the Cochlear Corporation in Los Angeles. Survivors include his wife. 

Frank E. Thomas ’71, June 20, 2021, Des Moines, Iowa. After graduating high school in 1962, he worked clerical jobs for five years before entering Grinnell in 1967 and majoring in history. He met Sheena Brown ’71 and they married in 1970. Frank received his law degree from Indiana University in 1974 and moved to Des Moines shortly thereafter. He practiced law until 1985 and then held a series of government positions with Polk County and the Iowa Department of Human Services. In 1991, Frank returned to Grinnell in a series of senior administrative positions related to campus planning, human resources, and diversity, retiring in 2009. A committed feminist and a quiet yet fierce proponent of racial and economic justice, Frank dedicated himself to charity and service throughout his life. He served as a founding member of the campus organization Concerned Black Students, and while employed at Grinnell, he mentored underrepresented students through the Posse Program. He also volunteered for many committees and boards for the College and other organizations. Survivors include his wife; children, Jolyon Thomas ’01 and Akili Thomas ’07; sister-in-law, Katherine Hiyane-Brown ’73; and brother-in-law, Robert Brown ’73.

Greg L. Vranicar ’72, Aug. 22, 2021, Overland Park, Kansas. He died from complications following a stroke. A history major at Grinnell, Greg was in the last class of U.S. Air Force ROTC cadets on campus. He vigorously debated war theory in ROTC classes while also canvassing the town of Grinnell to encourage local opposition to the Vietnam War. He received the President’s Medal and was Phi Beta Kappa. He earned his law degree at the University of Iowa and, after his active duty service with the U.S. Air Force, practiced law in the Kansas City area. He changed careers at age 43 and became a nonprofit fundraiser, motivated by his belief in local activism. He was also dedicated to Grinnell, serving in many volunteer roles. He served on the Alumni Council, as Asa Turner chair, as his class fund director, as a GRASP volunteer, and on multiple class reunion planning committees, including his 50th reunion. Survivors include his wife, Marilyn; two sons; and two grandchildren.

Editor’s note: For reunion weekend in 2012, David Hechler ’72 and A.J. Morey ’73 solicited essays from dozens of their classmates for an exhibit on activism at Grinnell from 1967 to 1973. The piece Greg Vranicar submitted for that exhibit, “The Activist Generation,” is available online.

Kathleen Ryerson ’73, Nov. 11, 2020, Las Vegas. Kathy majored in sociology at Grinnell and received her second bachelor’s and a master’s from Yale University in nursing and midwifery. After five years of service with the Indian Health Service at Fort Defiance, Arizona, she practiced midwifery in private practice in Phoenix and later practiced nursing in Show Low, Arizona. Survivors include two sisters, a brother, and a nephew.

Ann Kelley ’75, April 7, 2021, Arlington, Texas. Ann completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Iowa, where she also earned two master’s degrees, one in Spanish literature and one in library science. She began her library career at the University of Iowa and finished it at the University of Texas at Arlington Library. She served as a GRASP volunteer from 2000 to 2014. Survivors include her spouse, Vijayan Pillai.

John B. Murdock ’76, May 19, 2020, Durham, North Carolina. John followed his love for old-time fiddle music into competition, and by 1979 he was a National Championship semifinalist. Later he moved to Arizona to pursue a career in graphic design. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s at Arizona State University College of Design. He ran a successful graphic design business in the Phoenix area. His love for teaching took him back into the college scene with professorships at the University of Missouri-Columbia and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Survivors include his father.

Deborah Swackhamer ’76, April 22, 2021, Stillwater, Minnesota. Deb majored in chemistry at Grinnell. At the University of Wisconsin, she earned a master’s in water chemistry and a doctorate in oceanography and limnology. She was an internationally recognized environmental chemist whose service to the scientific community and public policy was invaluable. Her service included the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board from 2003 to 2012, which she chaired from 2008 to 2012. Survivors include her husband, David DeVault III, and a daughter, a stepson, and two grandchildren. 

Mark A. Catan ’78, May 18, 2020, St. James, New York. Mark majored in physics at Grinnell and then earned a master’s in mechanical engineering at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. He followed that with a law degree from Yeshiva University. He worked as a patent attorney with several different firms, most recently as a partner with Potomac Law Group.

Nicole Hamon ’78, Aug. 10, 2021, Claremont, California. She died after a 20-year battle with breast cancer. Nicole was born in France and first came to Grinnell in 1973 as a French language assistant. She met Richard Vos, then a counselor and residence hall director at Grinnell, and they married in 1976. While studying Russian at Grinnell, she met many international students and proposed a full-time position to advise international students. She helped students for the next eight years. She continued her work with international students at Claremont McKenna College as director of off-campus study, where she worked for 18 years. Survivors include her husband, two sons, and two grandchildren.

Thomas W. Jones ’78, April 15, 2021, Grinnell, Iowa. Tom, son of the late Alan Jones, Grinnell history professor, lived in Grinnell most of his life. Survivors include his mother, Jean Lewis Jones ’51. 

Mark A. Johnson ’82, Sept. 3, 2020, Atlantic, Iowa. Mark majored in Russian and political science and considered becoming a Russian interpreter after graduation. Instead he became a chef, eventually opening his own restaurant, The Farmer’s Kitchen, in Atlantic. Mark’s chili recipe won many awards, including the World People’s Choice Chili Award. Survivors include his mother and siblings.

Jamie Morford ’13, Aug. 18, 2020, New Orleans. Jamie earned her doctorate in medical sciences at Tulane University. She also had an artistic side — she loved music and was an accomplished viola player and poet. Survivors include her fiancé, David Shives, and several aunts and uncles.

Phillip Zukowski ’23, May 8, 2021, Maspeth, New York. Phillip died after a fall through a six-foot gap in the Ithaca Falls Natural Area. He was 19. Phillip had transferred to Cornell University for his sophomore year. Friends describe him as a deeply kind person who enjoyed making people laugh. Survivors include his parents, brother, and grandparents.

Former Staff

James Stanley Tederman, Aug. 6, 2021, Portland, Oregon. Born in Gothenburg, Nebraska, in 1942, Jim graduated from Stanford University in 1965 with a degree in political science. He went on to earn a master’s in political theory from the University of Nebraska in 1967, during which time he met and married Jane Ryon, to whom he remained wed for 55 years. Jim began his career at Grinnell as a student adviser in 1969. He was later promoted to assistant dean of student affairs, then associate dean, and finally vice president and dean of student services. He was known as a visionary and a leader to his coworkers and friends — both team-builder and a teammate. He remained at Grinnell until 1988 and finished his career at Reed College in Portland, Oregon, retiring in 2000. His book, Advice from the Dean, is still used in college classrooms today. Jim was an active outdoorsman who enjoyed boating, water skiing, fishing, elk hunting, snow skiing, and motorcycle riding in his free time. During retirement he traveled extensively throughout Mexico and developed a strong love of the country and its history. He also traveled to Europe and throughout the United States. Jim is survived by his wife, Jane; son, Caine; sisters, Kathleen Watson and Nancy Osborne; brothers-in-law, Forrest Ryon and Roger Ryon; sister-in-law, Linda Woodhouse; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.