In Memoriam

Helen Lampert McCune ’42, Mankato, Minnesota, June 23, 2018. After graduating from Grinnell, Helen taught English and history at Grinnell Junior High School. During World War II, she was an associate editor of World Book Encyclopedia in Chicago. ln October 1945 she married John T. McCune ’41 after he returned from his military service in North Africa and Italy. From 1970 to 1982, Helen was director of student services at the University of Wisconsin’s Fox Valley Center, where she championed programs to serve nontraditional students. In a system of 14 campuses, she was the only woman director. She is survived by a daughter, Cathy McCune Gjerde ’73, and a granddaughter.

Elsiebel Long Kasch-Noe ’45, Weslaco, Texas, Jan. 15, 2020. As a young woman, Elsiebel showed quarter horses and was affiliated with the Iowa Saddlehorse Association. A lifelong volunteer, Elsiebel took cancer patients to appointments and made robes and heart-shaped pillows at local medical centers. She is survived by two children, three grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. 

Colleen “Connie” Hannum Bartel ’47, Hopkins, Minnesota, July 16, 2020. Originally from Council Bluffs, Iowa, Connie was a proud fourth-generation Iowan. She was an avid supporter of the Council Bluffs Library and Mercy Hospital. She was a member of PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization), was an excellent bridge player, and loved to golf. Proud of her Irish heritage, Connie had a fondness for Guinness stout. She is survived by her three sons and daughters-in-law. 

Margaret Berry Christensen ’48, Ottumwa, Iowa, May 24, 2020. After leaving Grinnell, Margaret worked at the First National Bank in Shenandoah, then returned to school, receiving a bachelor’s in education from Northwest Missouri State University in 1950. In Ottumwa, she was an active member of First United Methodist Church. Margaret was also a member of the Women’s Club and a Paul Harris Fellow in Rotary International. She is survived by a brother, her daughter, three grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. 

Verne D. “Danny” Hull ’49, Yankton, South Dakota, May 20, 2020. Danny was an excellent athlete in high school and college. As time passed, he channeled these energies into running road races and marathons, bicycling, and playing tennis and table tennis. During World War II, Danny served with the 2nd Armored Division in Germany, where he sustained major wounds from combat. Honorably discharged, Danny taught and coached sports. Danny loved to hunt game with his dogs; he even wrote stories about them and established Platte River Kennels, a training facility for hunting dogs. He is survived by his two dogs, Rango and Creamer. 

Douglas R. Peterson ’50, Las Vegas, Nevada, May 27, 2020. He earned an additional bachelor’s degree from Florida State University, and a master’s in music from the University of Iowa. In 1976, he earned a doctor of musical arts in choral music and vocal pedagogy from the University of Iowa. He was music director of the Southern Nevada Musical Arts Society from 1968 to 2020. He prepared and conducted the world’s greatest choral-orchestra masterworks, enriching the lives of concert-goers for over five decades. He served as Grinnell class agent from 2012 to 2014 and was a member of the 60th and 65th Reunion Committees. Survivors include three children and a sister.

William G. Stauffer ’50, Santa Clara, California, Aug. 5, 2020. Bill was an accomplished pianist, designer, gardener, and gastronome, with a passion for music, nature, and chocolate. He shared his love of the garden as a volunteer with schoolchildren and his love of language teaching English as a second language to adults, and he never stopped learning. He is survived by three children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Alexander J. Elwyn ’51, Chicago, July 4, 2020. After high school, Alexander was drafted into the Army and was stationed in Italy following its surrender to Allied forces. While in Italy, he began his lifelong hobby of photography. Returning from the war, Alexander enrolled at Grinnell and graduated with degrees in math and physics. At Grinnell, he also met and fell in love with Sheila Boyer ’51, who became his wife. He loved to listen to Chicago radio and recorded 36 “Midnight Specials” in which he would play his favorite folk music and satire for his neighbors in Hyde Park. Alexander is survived by his three children.

Roberta Hansen Van Schilfgaarde ’51, Huntsville, Alabama (date of death not available). She is survived by her sister, Eloise Hansen Krivosheia ’56; daughter-in-law, Lynn Beck Van Schilfgaarde ’74; son, Paul Van Schilfgaarde ’76; and grandchild, Diana Van Schilfgaarde Jones ’06.

Dorothy Falk Barchman ’52, Wimauma, Florida, Jan. 5, 2020. Dorothy was an active member of the Handicapped Development Center Boosters and enjoyed working in her vegetable garden. Survivors include three children, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. 

Wayne L. Blewitt ’52, Ankeny, Iowa, June 29, 2020.

Donald R. Boeckling ’52, Cupertino, California, June 19, 2020. Don studied economics and business at Grinnell. He and his wife, Ann Joseph ’52, married shortly after graduation. He enlisted in the Air Force and rose to the rank of first lieutenant. He left the Air Force in 1956 to pursue a career in software development and worked in the insurance, aerospace and defense, and computer hardware industries. A huge sports fan, Don loved the San Francisco Giants, 49ers, and Stanford football. He also was a regular theatre- and symphony-goer. Don is survived by his sister, Joanne Boeckling Olsen ’54, and brother-in-law, Jim Olsen ’55; two children; and two grandchildren.

Susan “Bunny” Westerfeld Howell ’52, Newark, California (date of death not available).

Alice Rutledge McKinney ’52, Eugene, Oregon, March 19, 2020. Alice lived in Yellow Springs, Ohio, after graduating and was an extremely active community member and volunteer for a number of local organizations for 72 years. She was a social activist all her life and was a champion for civil rights. She was a proud member of the diverse congregation at the First Presbyterian Church of Yellow Springs. Alice was known for leading hikes and being a wildflower and bird enthusiast. She worked for several years during retirement as the Yellow Springs News proofreader. Alice is survived by four children, including Ruth McKinney ’77; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. 

James D. Jenkins ’53, Marshalltown, Iowa, April 18, 2020. After graduating, James was drafted into the Army and was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany, for two years. After his service ended, James attended law school at the University of Iowa and graduated with a J.D. in 1958. He worked in Des Moines for a few years, then moved to Albia, Iowa, in 1960 to work for his uncle’s law firm. That same year, he ran for Monroe County attorney and won his election by two votes, earning him the nickname “Landslide Jenkins.” James was a serial hobbyist and spent his time reading, camping, traveling, gardening, and flying his own light plane. He is survived by four daughters, including Rebecca Jenkins Schultz ’82.

Charlotte Fitzpatrick Ramshaw ’53, Savannah, Georgia (date of death not available). 

M. Isabelle Rice Borg ’54, Martinsville, Indiana, March 14, 2020. Survivors include a niece, Patricia Kennedy ’78; and two nephews, Paul Kennedy ’76 and Wesley Kennedy ’81.

Robert F. Norton ’54, Salem, South Carolina, April 19, 2020. Bob was an active volunteer with his church, the local hospital, and the elementary school in Salem. He actively walked the course when he golfed and loved Cubs baseball. In 1953, Bob married Barbara Newman ’53. She preceded him in death. He is survived by two children, his sister, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. 

Frances Bean Rakestraw ’54, Sun City West, Arizona, July 20, 2020. After college, Frances joined her husband in England, where he served in the U.S. Air Force. They lived in the English countryside for two years before returning to the United States. Frances taught nursery school and was active in the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) later in her life, holding officer positions at both the chapter and state levels. She had a passion for travel and went on more than 20 ocean cruises. Frances is survived by her husband, two sons, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. 

Clinton Ross ’55, Laughlin, Nevada, March 12, 2020. 

Jane North Norris ’56, Marshalltown, Iowa, May 21, 2020. Jane and David Norris ’55 were married at Grinnell before she joined him at his military deployment in Japan. Back in the United States, Jane was a news correspondent for the Des Moines Register, Waterloo Daily Courier, Cedar Rapids Gazette, and Dubuque Telegraph-Herald. She also volunteered at the Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa, and met with King Olav V on his visit to the community. Jane was obsessed with Norwegian needlecraft, teaching classes at the Marshalltown YMCA for many years. She served as a class agent from 1966 to 1989. She is survived by her husband, two children, two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a brother. 

Barbara Udell Hammer ’57, Rancho Mission Viejo, California (date of death not available).

Nancy Abel Wagner ’57, St. Charles, Missouri, March 20, 2020. She is survived by her husband, Robert Wagner ’56; siblings, Burdette Abel ’59, David Abel ’64, and Gordon Abel ’69; and son, David Wagner ’81.

Anne Hruska Parsons ’58, Bangor, Maine, June 16, 2020. Anne earned a master’s degree in counselor education from the State University of New York. She and her husband, Lynn Parsons ’58, moved to Detroit, where she was elected to the Michigan Democratic State Central Committee. Anne moved back to New York and began a 20-year career at the State University of New York at Brockport, during which she served as the president of the New York College Learning Skills Association. As a retiree in Castine, Maine, Anne took on active leadership roles in the Unitarian Universalist Congregation and was a member of the Castine Garden Club. She is survived by her husband and two sons. 

Sharon Heimendinger Hines ’60, Ankeny, Iowa, Nov. 23, 2019.

William J. McClung ’60, Berkeley, California, July 27, 2020. Bill was best known as the principal founder of University Press Books in Berkeley. He also enjoyed a long career as an editor and editorial manager at the University of California Press. He spent his final decades as an urban activist, preserving both nature and culture in the Bay Area. He served as president of the San Pablo Park Tennis Club and was dubbed the “King of ‘The Claremont’” after he won both the singles and doubles championships at the club. Bill is survived by his wife, Karen; daughter, Nicola McClung ’97; one son; and two granddaughters.

Robert S. Woito ’60, Madison, Wisconsin, June 21, 2020. Robert came to Grinnell on a basketball scholarship and ended up quarterbacking the football team under Coach John Pfitsch. He majored in history, joined ROTC, and served in Istanbul during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He went on to the University of California at Berkeley, earning a doctorate in history. He subsequently co-founded the World Without War Council in Berkeley and authored many books, such as To End War: A New Approach to International Conflict and The World Disarmament Kit. Robert is survived by his children, Andrea Woito Murray ’86 and Katrina Woito Severin ’85. 

Keith B. Kester ’61, Arvada, Colorado, July 17, 2020. Keith earned a doctorate in chemistry from Harvard in 1968 and then taught chemistry as a professor at Colorado College until retiring in 2012. Keith was very active in his community and as a member of organizations such as the New Earth Covenant Community, a Rocky Flats cleanup project, and the Society for Religion in Higher Education. He loved nature, conservation, and exploring the outdoors with his family. Survivors include his wife, daughters, brothers, and ex-wife, Phyllis Ball Kester ’61. 

Olive Kemp Whitley ’61, Chicago, Feb. 24, 2019. Olive was passionate about education and made it her life’s pursuit to ensure all children had educational opportunities that helped them reach their full potential. She earned a master’s in special education from the University of Illinois and taught kindergarten and special education, with a focus on educating people with hearing impairments. During her own education, Olive became a legacy member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, joining the same sisterhood as her mother. She is survived by her husband.

Michael S. Horwatt ’63, Reston, Virginia, Aug. 14, 2020. Michael was the lead speaker of the Grinnell 14, a group of 14 students who drove from Grinnell to Washington, D.C., in the fall of 1961 to protest the nuclear arms race. The students became international news after they presented a petition to the White House and the Soviet ambassador. “Perhaps the signature characteristic of a Grinnell education is how to bring about change within the periphery of tradition,” Michael said when asked to reflect on his experience. His actions helped start a student-led movement for peace. Survivors include a grandchild, Jalyn Marks ’16.

James W. Smith ’63, Cutler Bay, Florida, April 9, 2020. James loved his time at Grinnell and played on the tennis team. He was also part of the Grinnell 14 protest group led by Michael Horwatt that went to the White House. Survivors include his daughter, Tanya Smith ’92, and son-in-law, James Tipton ’94.

Mary Beth Lohrenz Fox ’64, Green Valley, Arizona, April 15, 2020. Mary met her husband, Michael Fox ’64, at Grinnell. She earned a master’s in library science from Southern Connecticut State University and worked for many years as a reference librarian at the Darien, Connecticut, public library. Mary volunteered as a 50th Reunion planning committee member. She is survived by her husband, two children, and four grandchildren.

Gregory R. Strawn ’64, Minneapolis, December 2019. Survivors include his wife, Catherine McDonald Strawn ’64.

David W. Gauger ’65, Yankton, South Dakota, March 23, 2020.

J. Kristian Nash ’66, Casselberry, Florida, April 25, 2020. Kris was an English/journalism major at Grinnell. Following graduation, he served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. Following his discharge, Kris worked for the Associated Press, Sanford Herald, Firestone Tire Co., a printing company in Chicago, and as a courier driver running bank data from Orlando to Fort Lauderdale. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of dialogue from his favorite movies and excelled at all sports trivia, recalling players’ names, stats, and details from games long in the past. He is survived by his wife, son and daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.

Steven R. Eberhardt ’67, Boonton, New Jersey, Dec. 15, 2019. He is survived by his spouse, Polly Priest Eberhardt ’68.

Paul W. Thurston ’67, Savoy, Illinois, April 30, 2020. Paul graduated from Marshalltown High School, where he was a triple-threat athlete in basketball, football, and golf. At Grinnell, he was named All-Conference defensive end. He earned a master’s in history from Wesleyan University. During this period, Paul trained with the Peace Corps, served inner-city youth with Outward Bound/Upward Bound and Eastern Kentucky with Vista Volunteers, and spent six months on an economic development research project in Costa Rica. Returning to the Midwest, Paul obtained J.D. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Iowa. He then served the University of Illinois’ Department of Organization and Educational Leadership for 28 years in various roles, including professor and department head. He is survived by his wife, four children, and 11 grandchildren.

M. Catherine Todd ’67, Concord, Massachusetts, Feb. 29, 2020.

Gary R. Agisim ’69, Richmond, Virginia, May 15, 2020. Gary served in the U.S. Navy from 1969 to 1973. He was a longtime member and past president of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC). He worked for Pfizer Consumer Healthcare and held multiple patents. Gary was known for delivering the closing presentation to the SCC national meetings. His work presented top-quality science, but he sang and performed for a full house. He is survived by his daughter. 

James “Jamie” W. Trotter ’71, Chicago, June 15, 2020. Jamie studied philosophy at Grinnell, where he met his future wife, Jane. After Grinnell, Jamie was drafted during the Vietnam War and served in the 15th Engineer Battalion, 9th Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, Washington. While at Fort Lewis, he earned a master’s in human resources management. He left the military after his direct commission to officer was stalled due to the Watergate scandal. He and Jane moved to Chicago, where he received an MBA in finance and accounting at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management in 1978. Survivors include his ex-wife, Jane Coleman Trotter ’72; two children, a sister, and two grandchildren. 

Milton P. Rolland Jr. ’75, Chicago, June 11, 2020. Milton loved to cook and took pride in his culinary skills. He had a deep love for his mother and took care of her throughout her life. He is survived by a sister, Careda Taylor ’76.

Gwendolyn Satterfield-Barjon ’80, Red Oak, Texas, April 22, 2020. Survivors include her husband, Paul Barjon ’83, and three children.

Judith Weinreb ’82, San Leandro, California, June 8, 2020. After Grinnell, Judith worked for United Airlines. Her career allowed her to explore her passion for travel (and shopping). She was a lifelong Oakland Athletics fan. Judith is survived by her husband, her mother, and her sisters.

Christine Kaestle ’95, Blacksburg, Virginia, July 16, 2020. Christine studied biology at Grinnell and completed her doctorate in maternal and child health at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill in 2006. She joined the faculty in the Department of Human Development at Virginia Tech in 2006 and was promoted to full professor in 2019. Her career focused on understanding human sexuality as a core human behavior. Christine was a lifelong vegetarian and vigorously fought for women’s rights, anti-racism efforts, and economic justice. She was a GRASP Volunteer from 1998 to 2017. Survivors include her husband, Louis Madsen ’94; and her parents and sister.

Brent E. LeMoine ’16, Aurora, Illinois, May 13, 2020. Brent excelled in academics, earning his degree in economic, and athletics at Grinnell. He played basketball all four years. He made annual trips with his friends to watch the Final Four Division I college basketball championships. Brent was known for being incredibly tall and strong, and for his easygoing and kindhearted nature. He was a supportive friend who was generous with his time and energy, always giving of himself to others. In 2016, he hosted Grinnell’s massive, campus-wide block party, continuing an annual tradition.

Faculty

Kenneth Goldsmith, Houston, June 26, 2020.

Kenneth was a member of Grinnell’s music department faculty from 1975 to 1987. He was a lifelong musician and master of the violin. He began studying baroque and classical styles at Stanford University in 1966 and was one of the first teachers of baroque and classical violin in America. Kenneth performed with many of the world’s finest artists, and his students have gone on to perform in major symphony orchestras, in opera and ballet orchestras, in string quartets, in period music ensembles, and on the faculties of colleges across the United States. He had an extensive discography and received a Grammy Award nomination, a Stereo Review Recording of Special Merit, and a Record of the Year citation from the Village Voice.

Martha Reid Murphy ’39, Forest City, Iowa, Jan. 17, 2020. Martha was an active member of her church and served for more than 50 years in the Girl Scouts. She is survived by two children; six grandchildren, including Xylina Walker ’04; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Hetty Green Hasekamp ’40, Roswell, New Mexico, March 11, 2020. Hetty worked with the Iowa Tuberculosis Society and at a department store in St. Louis. She and her husband, Lester, ran an architectural construction and engineering firm for 25 years. In retirement, she was involved with the Community Soup Kitchen, the Roswell Women’s Club, and her church. She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Hasekamp Torno ’62.

Mary Safris Keller ’40, Poway, California, March 2, 2020.

David R. Meade ’44, Philomath, Oregon, July 14, 2019. Survivors include his niece, Catherine Meade ’84; and nephew, James Meade ’68.

Roberta “Bobette” Brown Sanders ’45, Cortlandt Manor, New York, April 25, 2020. She was the first female Midwest director at Liggett Drug Co. She and her late husband, Paul Sanders, were married for 59 years. She served as a class agent for Grinnell for 23 years and received an Alumni Award in 2015. She is survived by her son and daughter.

Walter G. Seidlitz Jr. ’48, Minneapolis, March 14, 2020. Walter was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He was married to Miriam Norton Seidlitz ’47 for 62 years; she died in 2010. He was a longtime member of the Rotary Club and his church. Survivors include his two children, including Stephen N. Seidlitz ’71; daughter-in-law, Mary Beth Burney Seidlitz ’72; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

William E. Siegel ’50, Sun City West, Arizona, Nov. 22, 2019.

Robert M. Pilkington ’50, Grayslake, Illinois, March 4, 2020. Bob served in the infantry in World War II, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, was a prisoner of war, and received a Purple Heart. Shortly after graduating from Grinnell, he began working at WHAS-TV in Louisville, Kentucky; he married the late Audrey Wedel Pilkington ’49. He spent nearly 40 years at the company as a producer, director, and writer. He was a regular volunteer at Historic Locust Grove and Reading for the Blind. Survivors include three children and two grandchildren.

William A. Smiley Jr. ’50, Schofield, Wisconsin, March 26, 2020. Before attending Grinnell, Bill was in the U.S. Army, where he was trained to be a paratrooper and helped build concrete “mulberry” docks to support the D-Day invasions on the Normandy beaches. He met his wife, Doris Jean Nesbitt ’50, at Grinnell and went on to earn a master’s from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He spent decades as a biology teacher at Wausau High School and coached track, cross country, and swimming. He founded the annual Wausau Invitational cross country meet, which was later renamed the Smiley Invitational in his honor. He was an active community member, participating in the Kiwanis Club of Greater Wausau. He is survived by two children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Clark T. Kingery ’51, Hockessin, Delaware, March 9, 2020. Clark spent 36 years in a variety of roles at Hercules Inc., including corporate director of production operations for all 37 Hercules plants worldwide. He was an active volunteer, serving on the National Ski Patrol, coaching football, and serving as president and board member of the Boys Club of Wilmington. During his tenure, the club became the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware. He lost his first wife, Carla Parks Kingery ’54, in 1994. He is survived by his second wife, Carol Wood Kingery; four children; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Robert V. Pischke ’51, De Witt, Iowa, Jan. 22, 2020. In 1943, while still in high school, Bob enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He was trained as a gunner on a B-29 bomber. He attended Grinnell on the GI Bill. Over the years, he owned and operated Eldridge (Iowa) Pharmacy and served as a real estate agent and as a licensed insurance agent. He married Joy Dunn ’49, who died in 2004. He was also heavily involved in community activities, including serving as a Sunday school teacher. He was president of his church and held leadership positions for the Eldridge Lions Club. He is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Bruce M. Snell Jr. ’51, Ida Grove, Iowa, Dec. 20, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Bruce served in the Army for two years during the Korean War, then earned a law degree from the University of Iowa. He married Anne Fischer in 1956. He served as an Iowa assistant attorney general and had a solo law practice. He was appointed to the inaugural Iowa Court of Appeals in 1976 and then, in 1987, to the Iowa Supreme Court, on which father had served until retiring in 2001. His father served on that same court from 1961 until 1970. Bruce was deeply involved in his community as a longtime member of Kiwanis, American Legion, Masonic Lodge, and Abu Bekr Shrine. He served on the Horn Memorial Hospital board of directors. He was named Citizen of the Year by Ida Grove in 1987 and received distinguished alumni awards from both Grinnell College and the University of Iowa College of Law in 2001. He is survived by his two children, including Bradley S. Snell ’85.

Constance Thuma Wallace ’51, St. Paul, Minnesota, April 3, 2020. Survivors include one brother and a niece.

Beverly Cannon Skog ’52, Tucson, Arizona, Feb. 9, 2019. She was married for 64 years to Jackson Skog ’52, who died in 2014. Survivors include a brother, five children, 10 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren.

D. Paulette Esser Payne ’54, Austin, Texas, Dec. 25, 2019.

Dolores Cain Hakes ’55, Orchard Park, New York, Aug. 14, 2019. Survivors include her husband, James D. Hakes ’53.

Janet Wanzer ’55, Memphis, Tennessee, Feb. 26, 2020. After working at Ginn Publishing in Boston, Janet spent many years as a secretary in the Infectious Diseases Department of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital before her retirement. She was a devoted volunteer at a local hospital and a docent at the Memphis Zoo. She is survived by a nephew and niece.

Elma Johnston Brooks ’56, College Place, Washington, Dec. 14, 2019.

Joanne Bunge ’56, Costa Mesa, California, April 5, 2020. In addition to raising two sons, Joanne chaired the Family Education Center and was project manager for the Bloomington, Minnesota, Chamber of Commerce for the Mall of America. After her children left for college, she returned to Grinnell, where she worked for Grinnell Regional Medical Center and for the College as director of planned giving. She spent nearly two decades as a class agent and received an Alumni Award in 2011. In addition, she founded and chaired the Community Education Council, which offers popular “Bucket Courses” for seniors in the Grinnell community. Survivors include two sons and four grandchildren.

Margot Waters Bates ’57, Boulder, Colorado, March 21, 2019.

Nancy Johannsen Boyer ’57, Carroll, Iowa, Dec. 20, 2019. Nancy taught high school math before having three children. She was active in her children’s lives and her community, including Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, and her church. Later, she opened her own craft store, Busy Hands Craft Shop, and taught many classes. She went on to work as office manager for an H&R Block office and as a tax preparer for Mr. Tax. She is survived by her husband, Richard F. Boyer ’54; three children; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Don C. Leo ’57, Carol Stream, Illinois, March 9, 2020. Don earned a master’s from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, where he met his wife, Judy Barnsbeck. He was appointed to Methodist churches in Iowa and Illinois and counseled fellow clergy and pastoral candidates as part of the United Methodist Church’s Midwest Career Development Service. He also served as part-time chaplain for Central DuPage Hospital for 25 years. He is survived by his wife, four children, and seven grandchildren.

Dan A. Ver Ploeg ’57, Anchorage, Alaska, March 26, 2020. Dan earned a master’s in biochemistry from the University of Iowa and a doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of Wisconsin. He worked for Chemical Abstracts Service for many years before joining the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s Division of Drinking Water. He married his first wife, Gail Davenport, in 1964, with whom he had two children. His second marriage was to Angela Henn Bollinger in 1988. Dan was a licensed pilot and a longtime spelunker. He was famous for his home-baked bread. Survivors include two sons and five grandchildren.

John H. Williams ’57, Simi Valley, California, March 28, 2020. John earned a master’s from the University of Nebraska and a doctorate from Kansas State University. He taught for many years at The Ohio State University and later served as Midwest regional vice president for the Sierra Club. He went on to serve in a variety of government roles, including in the U.S. Department of Energy. In retirement, he was a book and film critic for Georgia’s Lakeside Ledger and chaired the executive board of the Simi Valley Council on Aging. He is survived by his wife, Virginia; three stepchildren; and nine grandchildren.

William L. Britton ’58, Seattle, Dec. 8, 2019. Bill served in the Army for four years. He went on from Grinnell to the University of Washington Law School, where he met his first wife, Carol, and had three daughters. He served as an attorney and administrative law judge for the state of Washington. He married his second wife, Kathleen, in 1984, and had one daughter, Clara. Clara died from a brain tumor, and, following her death, Bill was an avid volunteer at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Survivors include his sister, Barbara Britton Lacy ’53; three daughters; and four grandchildren.

Kimberly Meyer Sundet ’58, Beloit, Wisconsin, Oct. 18, 2019. In addition to Grinnell, Kimberly attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. She and her first husband, Bud Schroeder, had two sons. In 1979, she married the Rev. Arvid Sundet. She served with him as co-pastor of churches throughout Wisconsin. She is survived by her husband, two sons, two stepchildren, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Martha Pillars Buenneke ’59, Sarasota, Florida, Dec. 17, 2019.

Nichola Flock Krause ’59, Prescott, Arizona, March 24, 2020. Nikki retired to Arizona from Denver after a long career as a flight attendant with United Airlines. Survivors include two daughters, three stepchildren, and five grandchildren.

Michael J. Chandler ’60, Vancouver, British Columbia, Jan. 28, 2019. He was a professor in the department of psychology at the University of British Columbia for 25 years. Michael was named Canada’s only distinguished investigator of both the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research. Survivors include his wife, Alexandra; son Zack; and four siblings, including Stephen Chandler ’66.

Glee Clark Hamilton ’60, Tampa, Florida, Jan. 21, 2020. Glee transferred from Grinnell to the University of Arizona’s College of Education, then taught first grade in Phoenix for two years. She went on to work for the Department of Defense as a teacher at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines, where she met her husband, Donald Hamilton. She had two sons and later earned a master’s in reading education from the University of South Florida. She spent nearly 20 years as a reading teacher at Franklin Middle School in Tampa. She is survived by her husband, two sons, and four grandchildren.

Robert Gene Mack ’60, Greeley, Colorado, Dec. 23, 2019. Gene drove long-haul trucks before going to Grinnell College. After graduating, he went to Yale Divinity School and became a United Church of Christ minister in 1963. Gene served churches throughout Colorado. He helped establish Aims Community College, Weld Food Bank, and several Head Start programs. He is survived by his wife, Joanne, and four children.

Richard A. Hoiekvam ’61, Omaha, Nebraska, July 23, 2019. Survivors include two children and two grandchildren.

Henry G.L. “Mac” McCullough ’61, South Bend, Indiana, Feb. 24, 2020. After Grinnell, Mac served in the U.S. Air Force, then went on to work in a variety of roles at organizations including NASA, Kitt Peak National Observatory, and Babcock & Wilcox Company’s Atomic Energy Division in Virginia. He was a nuclear energy adviser to President Ronald Reagan and testified before Congress. Mac served as a class agent for Grinnell from 2011 to 2016. He is survived by his wife, Princess; and four children; three grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

John Z. McFarland ’61, Moran, Wyoming, Dec. 29, 2019. John attended medical school at Louisiana State University and completed a residency in radiology. He practiced medicine in South Carolina, Colorado, and Nevada. He enjoyed helping others with their home projects. Survivors include his wife, Sherri; sister, Marjorie McFarland ’63; three children; and five grandchildren.

John N. Scott ’61, Mahomet, Illinois, Feb. 26, 2020. A trumpeter, John played in a jazz group Herbie Hancock ’60 formed at Grinnell and co-wrote the song “A Tribute to Someone” on Hancock’s second album, My Point of View.

Sonia Anderson ’62, New Brighton, Minnesota, Jan. 29, 2020. She worked at Control Data and at Dayton’s personnel department. She went on to spend 50 years at Target Corp. as manager of benefits. Survivors include her sister.

Allen S. Boston ’63, Webster Groves, Missouri, Feb. 28, 2020. Allen graduated from Yale Law School and spent nearly 40 years at the law firm Lewis Rice. He later spent three years as general counsel for Saint Louis Public Schools. John was a member of the board of the Bach Society of Saint Louis and enjoyed playing the soundtrack from the 1972 film 1776 from his front porch every July 4. He is survived by his wife, Lucyann; two children; and three grandchildren.

Elizabeth Brockert Howell ’63, Ames, Iowa, Feb. 24, 2020. At Grinnell Liz met her husband, Stephen H. Howell ’63. She attended graduate school for bryology, the study of mosses, at the University of Iowa. Before having children, she worked as a research technician in Baltimore and had roles at the Salk Institute and at the University of California San Diego Medical School. While raising her two daughters, she kept an active volunteer life. Survivors include her husband, two children, and four grandchildren.

Larry F. Smucker ’63, Chevy Chase, Maryland, Feb. 24, 2020. As a student at Grinnell, Larry traveled to Washington, D.C., in 1961 to demonstrate for the nuclear test ban treaty, one of the first events in the national student peace movement of the 1960s. He met his first wife, Joan Lubin ’63, at Grinnell; the couple had three children. She died in 1985. Larry earned a master’s in European history from Harvard and later spent many years working for USAID and the World Bank. In retirement, he volunteered for Grinnell’s Office of Development and Alumni Relations. He is survived by his second wife, Fauzia Rashid Smucker; three children; and four grandchildren.

Sally Wolf Robinson ’65, Lakeside, Michigan, Feb. 15, 2020. While at Grinnell, Sally met her husband, L. “Rob” Vern Robinson ’65. She worked for many years as a social worker and supervisor in child protective services for the Johnson County, Iowa, Department of Social Services. She also worked as an administrative assistant for the Johnson County juvenile probation office and as secretary for the principal of an alternative high school. She loved singing and was a member of two choruses. She was also an avid cyclist. She completed 15 RAGBRAIs (the cross-state bike ride sponsored by the Des Moines Register) and celebrated Iowa’s sesquicentennial by riding 5,000 miles from California to Washington, D.C., in 1995. She volunteered for Grinnell as a class agent until 2001 and received an Alumni Award in 1990. Survivors include her husband; two children, including Amy Robinson ’92; and two grandchildren.

Janet Megorden Stalder ’66, Wake Forest, North Carolina, Jan. 24, 2020. Janet worked as a computer programmer for Honeywell before marrying Bob Stalder in 1976 and having two sons. She was active in the Cub Scouts, helped raise money for Paoli Hospital Auxiliary Board, and was a devoted member of her church. She is survived by her husband; sister, Margaret Megorden Bailly ’67; brother-in-law, Richard C. Bailly ’66; two sons; and three grandchildren.

Jay H. Greener ’67, Centereach, New York, Jan. 18, 2020. Jay served in Vietnam as a combat engineer in the 70th Combat Battalion. He had a long career in sales, working for Dow Corning Corp., Lutheran Brotherhood, Owens-Illinois, and in his own business. He was a longtime class fund director for Grinnell, served as a class reunion chair, and received an Alumni Award in 2017. He was also a member of the University Glee Club of New York City and his church choir. He is survived by his wife, Lynn Marie Greener; three children; and five grandchildren.

Louis L. Kelley ’68, Denver, Sept. 14, 2019.

Erania Tecumseh-Hawkins ’69, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Feb. 26, 2020.

Gordon D. Christensen ’70, Columbia, Missouri, Feb. 29, 2020. Gordon spent decades as a professor of medicine, specializing in infectious diseases and tropical medicine, at the University of Missouri School of Medicine and was known for taking on difficult patient cases linked to Lyme disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. He was frequently honored for his teaching and was proud of his popular undergraduate course, The Practice of Medicine Through Literature. He was also recognized for his research on medical device infections. Survivors include his wife, Alice Hyde Christensen ’70; two daughters, including Charlotte Christensen, Grinnell assistant professor of physics; and a grandchild.

Richard F. Faust ’74, Minneapolis, Sept. 22, 2019.

Robert S. Miller ’74, Chicago, Sept. 5, 2019.

Linda Rodriguez-Torrent ’74, Sebring, Florida, Jan. 21, 2020. Linda earned her law degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1982. She started in a small private practice before moving to Indianapolis, where she worked for the women’s legal clinic and Indiana public defenders on appeals and death-penalty post-conviction cases. She moved to Sebring, Florida, in 1998 to work for the public defender’s office, then opened her own law firm that specialized in criminal defense law. Linda was instrumental in launching the Highlands County teen court program and was awarded the Governor’s Community Investment Award for her work with that program. She visited classrooms and organized community events for the Highlands County Bar Association Law Day program. She earned the Judge Clifton M. Kelly Award for her efforts teaching law and justice to children and received the 2018 Highlands County Bar Association Lifetime Achievement Award. She is survived by her husband, Eric Menges; two children; and a grandchild.

David I. Wright ’74, St. Paul, Minnesota, March 17, 2020. David earned his doctorate from the University of Kansas and spent more than 30 years at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. He was an avid sailor, cross-country skier, and cyclist. He was a longtime supporter of the men’s soccer program at Grinnell and had recently established the Wright Fund for Men’s Soccer. Survivors include his wife, Deborah Smith-Wright ’75; three children, including Evan Wright ’12; brother, Douglas Lochner-Wright ’84; sister-in-law, Barbara Smith ’72; brother-in-law, Craig Gordon ’71; and two grandchildren.

Beata Riedlmayer ’76, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Aug. 30, 2019.

John Hukushi ’83, Santa Monica, California, Nov. 23, 2019.

Christopher S. Coles ’85, Eureka, Missouri, Oct. 5, 2019. Survivors include his sister, Deborah Coles Ryan ’87; and niece, Grace Ryan ’14.

Scott W. Hamilton ’89, Austin, Texas, Jan. 26, 2020. Scott was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, brother, and son. He served as a class agent and is survived by his wife, Laura; three children; and three stepchildren.

Julia Christine Snyder ’89, Malibu, California, Feb. 19, 2020. Julie was a studio art major at Grinnell and earned her bilingual elementary teaching credential at the University of California-Los Angeles. Survivors include her father, Peter Z. Snyder ’63; and mother, Karen Sorensen Snyder ’64.

Faculty

Wade A. Jacoby, Provo, Utah, Feb. 29, 2020. He was 55 when he suffered a heart attack while mountain biking in southern Utah. A former assistant professor of political science at Grinnell, Wade earned his doctorate in political science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and taught at Grinnell from 1995 to 2000. He later took a professorship at Brigham Young University. Survivors include his parent; wife, Kindra; three children; one granddaughter; and seven siblings.

Roberta Lincoln Greenspon ’43, Sea Cliff, New York, Nov. 23, 2017.

Margaret Samuelson Walker ’43, Poulsbo, Washington, Sept. 8, 2019. After Grinnell, Margaret earned her master’s at Purdue University and then taught in Hammond, Indiana. When she lived in San Diego, she was an active volunteer with the Mission Hills United Church of Christ, Walkabout International, the San Diego Women’s Club, and the Scripps Ranch High School Library volunteers. Her survivors include three children, three grandchildren, and a great-grandson.

Mary Parsons Burkett ’48, Portage, Michigan, Aug. 20, 2019. Mary began her musical career very early on when she sang at her local Congregational Church. At Grinnell, Mary studied education and then earned a master’s in vocal music from the University of Michigan. She worked as an elementary school teacher and choir director. In the late 1960s, she and her husband Charley Burkett helped start the Paw Paw Village Players in Paw Paw, Michigan, and later purchased the playhouse that still puts on many players’ productions. Mary is survived by four children, 10 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Muriel “Scottie” Scott Harkee ’48, Glendora, California, Aug. 10, 2019.

Lee H. Baker ’49, Charleston, South Carolina, Sept. 8, 2019. Lee joined the U.S. Navy in 1942, serving on two aircraft carriers and a submarine chaser, primarily in the Pacific, during World War II. After Grinnell, he completed graduate work in public administration at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University. In 1950 he married Carolyn Pitz. Lee worked for the Pentagon for 30 years in offices related to naval operations. For 16 years after that he was a self-employed financial management consultant to the U.S. House Appropriations Committee. Survivors include six children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Joann Pitcher ’49, Chicago, June 21, 2019.

Ray J. Mourer ’49, Richland, Iowa, July 19, 2019. Ray served in the U.S. Army in the Pacific theater during World War II. He married Winnie McNeese of Grinnell in 1946. His interest in conservation led to his service on the Washington County (Iowa) Conservation Board, and in 1972 he received the State of Iowa Conservation Award. His survivors include four children, eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Patricia Sholders Spencer ’49, San Antonio, Aug. 14, 2019. Patricia attended Grinnell as a Younker Scholar and graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1949. After receiving her teaching certificate from California State University, Long Beach, she taught French in public schools in Ohio and Oregon. She earned her master’s at Portland State University in 1972. Her husband Gordon Spencer’s U.S. Air Force career took them around the world. Patricia is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Dale W. Christison ’50, Rancho Palos Verdes, California, Aug. 7, 2019. After serving in the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific during World War II, Dale attended Grinnell and met his future wife, Barbara Anderson Christison ’50. Dale taught high school for many years, including his first three in Grinnell. He also coached many successful track and football teams. He was an avid stamp collector, a talented woodworker, and loved to travel with Barbara, visiting all 50 states over the years. Dale is survived by his wife of 69 years, five children, and eight grandchildren.

Marian Scott Dillingham ’52, Carol Stream, Illinois, Sept. 7, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Marian taught grade school in Iowa before moving to Chicago. There she met her husband Bruce Dillingham at the YMCA; they married in 1960. Marian had a passion for evangelical missions. She and Bruce served as short-term assistant missionaries in Peru, where she taught Spanish. For Grinnell, Marian served as a regional volunteer from 2000 to 2005. Helping others was something she enjoyed. Her survivors include three children and six grandchildren.

Thomas W. Ohrbeck ’52, Edmonds, Washington, April 3, 2019.

Richard M. Combs ’53, Laguna Woods, California, May 31, 2019.

Sally Goen Maurer ’53, Iowa City, Iowa, Sept. 9, 2019. An Iowa native, Sally also attended the University of Iowa.

Lucy Wilson Sly ’53, Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey, July 1, 2018. Through her work as a teacher and a counselor, Lucy touched many lives. Survivors include two daughters and two grandsons.

Arthur “Bud” Heusner Jr. ’54, Bluffton, South Carolina, Aug. 30, 2019.

Cecil C. Smith ’54 Jr., Chicago, Sept. 5, 2019. Cecil was fond of humor and puns. He retired as the circulation manager for the Chicago Tribune. He is survived by his wife Suzanne Johnsen Smith ’56; three children; nine grandchildren, including Alexandra Schmitt ’13 and Margaret Schmitt ’15; a great-granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews, including Bruce Johnsen ’82 and Gweneth Johnsen ’85.

Talbert E. Dowling III ’55, Washington, Maryland, Aug. 20, 2019. Talbert was a master electrician in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Survivors include two children and three grandchildren.

John P. Herman ’56, Colville, Washington, Sept. 24, 2019. In 1951, home for Christmas break after his first term at Carleton College, Jack discovered that all his friends had joined the U.S. Navy, so he did too. He attended medical corps school at Bainbridge Naval Training Center in Maryland and served for several months in Korea until the truce in 1953. After his discharge from the navy, Jack finished his undergraduate work at Grinnell and then attended the University of Iowa Medical School, graduating in 1961. He met his wife Jobyna “Joby” Ann Rankin while in medical school. Most of his medical practice was spent in Colville, Washington. Jack’s survivors include his wife of 61 years, three children, 12 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Le Roy “Lee” Jacobs ’56, Minneapolis, Sept. 14, 2019. Lee died from complications due to Alzheimer’s disease. He met his wife Josephine Pondelicek Jacobs ’56 at Grinnell. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy Reserve and a longtime member of the Lions Club. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, three children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

R. Wayne Ohline ’56, Socorro, New Mexico, Sept. 17, 2019. Wayne was a Grinnell volunteer from 1998 to 2017, greeting and interviewing prospective students with the GRASP program. Survivors include his brother, Howard Ohline ’58; sister-in-law, Katherine Davis Ohline ’60; and daughter, Shane Ohline ’89.

Samuel D. Porter ’56, West Des Moines, Iowa, Aug. 6, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell and marrying Jewel Hendrickson, Sam went to Creighton Medical School and began his surgical residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. He practiced medicine in Mason City, Iowa, for 20 years. He was passionate about caring for his patients and dedicated to the continuous improvement of health care in northern Iowa. He retired from medicine in 1986 and began a second career in health care administration. Sam was a member of many medical councils across Iowa and served as president of the Midwest Medical Association. Sam also loved to spend his time as the sideline doctor for the Mason City High School football team. He is survived by his wife of 63 years; four children, including Samuel Porter ’83; and nine grandchildren.

Henry-York Steiner ’56, Spokane, Washington, Sept. 6, 2019. Hank’s connection to Grinnell was deep. His grandfather was Edward A. Steiner, professor of religion at the College, and for whom Steiner Hall was named. Hank’s time at Grinnell was interrupted by the Korean War. He served as a military policeman for two years before completing his bachelor’s in English. After earning his master’s from Yale University in 1957, Hank began his teaching career at Grinnell as an English instructor from 1957 to 1959. Teaching became his passion and life’s work. He earned a doctorate in English in 1963 at the University of Oregon and then returned to Grinnell as an assistant professor in English from 1964 to 1968 and associate dean 1966–68. Then he was recruited as dean of undergraduate studies at Eastern Washington University, where he served in many different roles. He became professor emeritus on June 13, 2019, having taught EWU students with distinction for 51 years. His areas of interest included folklore, East-West philosophy and religion, and fantasy theory. He was a pre-eminent Tolkien scholar, and his children and grandchildren loved consulting with him on all things Lord of the Rings. Survivors include his wife Lori Flores Steiner; three children; seven grandchildren, including Deborah Berk ’12; brother, David Steiner ’57; and nephew, Henry-York Steiner ’84.

Maynard F. Swanson Jr. ’57, Wellborn, Florida, Feb. 4, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Maynard earned a law degree at Duke University and then served as a judge with the 6th Circuit Court for 30 years. He is survived by Ruthann Frantz Swanson, his wife of 28 years, and three children, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Nancy Slaughter ’58, Minneapolis, July 31, 2019. Nancy completed her bachelor’s and master’s at Macalester College. She began her professional career as an elementary school teacher and later worked in public relations for Winston-Seabury Press. She was a philanthropist serving the Twin Cities on multiple boards for different causes — women’s foundations, humanities commissions, church groups, and more. Her passions were art, arranging flowers, and extensive travel. Nancy is survived by her sister and cousins.

Beth Dieterly Barnes ’59, Milford, Massachusetts, March 9, 2019. Beth completed her bachelor’s at Miami of Ohio University and a master’s at Northwestern University. She also earned certification in speech therapy, which she provided to preschoolers for more than 50 years, working in Oklahoma, Florida, and Maine. Her survivors include two children and four grandchildren.

J. Joseph Okumu ’62, Kenya, July 10, 2019, of prostate cancer. Joe, who came to Grinnell slightly older than his peers, studied economics and political science. He played on the College’s first men’s soccer team and was also the team’s unofficial coach, because the official coach, George Drake ’56, didn’t really know soccer. Joe earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in political science at the University of California before returning to Africa, where he taught at several universities in Kenya, Sudan, and Tanzania. He wrote many articles published in the East African Journal analyzing political events in Kenya and at times earned the ire of the country’s security forces due to his forceful critiques. In 1973 Joe received an Alumni Award. His survivors include two children and four grandchildren.
Patricia Taylor Wilson ’62, Ankeny, Iowa, July 26, 2019. Patricia was active in many local groups and organizations. She enjoyed reading, antiquing, and traveling. She is survived by her husband Richard Wilson, two children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Bruce M. Bell ’63, Barrington, Illinois, Aug. 23, 2019. After receiving his degree from Grinnell, Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Navy and completed officer candidate school in 1965. He served in Vietnam and was awarded a Bronze Star. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati Medical School in 1972 and married Joanne Reinersman that year. Bruce worked as a physician in Barrington until he retired in 2017. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, three children, 10 grandchildren, and his sister, Ann Bell McCarty ’56.

Robert F. Taylor ’63, Grand Rapids, Michigan, Aug. 19, 2019. Bob graduated from Grinnell High School and Grinnell College, where he majored in music and was active in theatre. He was a talented trombonist and composer, performing in groups big and small. In college, he played in a group led by Herbie Hancock ‘60. When serving in the Peace Corps, Bob learned from the traditions of Latinx jazz musicians in Colombia and Brazil. Upon his return to the United States, he played in a band that backed Motown groups, on tour with Broadway show companies, and in many more groups. Later in his career, he taught Spanish and TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) at Grand Rapids Community College. Survivors include his nephew, Ben Gordon ’11.

Lureta Kahler ’66, Toledo, Iowa, Aug. 1, 2019. Lureta was a biology major who went on to earn a master’s in teaching from the University of Colorado. She taught high school science and worked in medical research. When she was nearly 40 years old, she enrolled in Logan Chiropractic School in Missouri, graduating in December 1986 with a doctorate of chiropractic medicine. At the time she went back to school, she was amazed at how well her Grinnell education prepared her, even after 20 years. She found joy in her grandsons (whom she homeschooled), her church life, and the large vegetable gardens she maintained. She is survived by her daughter, son-in-law, and their four sons.

Peggy Gerber ’67, Lansing, Michigan, Jan. 23, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Peggy worked for the University of Michigan Mathematical Reviews Department. She was a master gardener and an avid reader of science fiction. She was drawn to animals, especially cats. Wherever she lived, her friends became her family.

Alice Evans Handy ’67, Bloomington, Minnesota, Sept. 25, 2019. Alice graduated with a bachelor’s in history and American studies and married Phillip T. Handy ’66 on June 17, 1967. She was awarded a fellowship to the University of Minnesota for a master’s in library science and education. In 1970 she became a media specialist in the Burnsville/Eagan (Minnesota) School District, where she remained until retiring in 2004. Alice’s vision and passion was to have the media center be a resource and support for the curriculum objectives of each teacher in the classroom and to encourage the literacy, curiosity, and critical thinking of every student. A frequent presenter at Minnesota Educational Media conferences, Alice published many articles in professional journals. She was a scholar, educator, proud feminist, poet, musician, and genealogist. Survivors include her husband, two daughters, and one grandson.

John K. Milne ’67, Portland, Maine, Sept. 5, 2019. John loved politics and spent four decades in journalism with United Press International, the Miami Herald, the New Hampshire Times, and the Boston Globe. He was present in 1972 when presidential candidate Edmund Muskie gave his famous “crying” speech that ended up harming his campaign. John wrote about the incident after Muskie’s death in 1996 and didn’t think there were tears. John always had a book project in the works, eventually editing Crosscurrents of Change: Concord, N.H. in the 20th Century, written by local historians. He enjoyed staying up late playing blues guitar, hiking, cooking, and reading to his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Lisa Milne, two children, and four grandchildren.

Mata Bowyer Stevenson ’67, Chicago, Sept. 23, 2019. Mata died of Parkinson’s disease. After Grinnell, she earned a master’s in library science at Rutgers. She worked as a writer for Encyclopædia Britannica and as a research librarian for Newsweek magazine. She retired from the library of the Fashion Institute of Technology at the State University of New York. While living in Manhattan, she enjoyed opera, ballet, films, restaurants, and tango dancing. She loved learning and took night classes to learn the Greek language. She had a deep, lifelong love for Chicago. She is survived by husband Arthur Stevenson and brother Paul Bowyer.

Paul R. Revenko-Jones ’68, Chicago, Aug. 20, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Paul went on to earn his master’s from the University of Chicago. He worked as a registered piano technician and co-founded the Chicago School for Piano Technology. Paul loved to write poetry, go sailing, and play music and was an Aikido black belt. He is survived by Oksana Revenko-Jones, his wife of 42 years.

Nancy Morrison ’69, Pacifica, California, Aug. 13, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Nancy earned her master’s in social work from St. Louis University. She moved to San Francisco in 1975 and worked for various social service agencies in the area. In 2014, Nancy retired as a mediator with the San Mateo County Family Court. She was also very active in local politics and community groups, serving on the board of directors of the Pacifica Resource Center for many years. Nancy is survived by her husband Peter Loeb and two stepchildren.

Karen P. Smith ’69, Chicago, May 5, 2019. Karen was a talented psychologist who provided excellent care to her clients for more than 30 years. A lifelong Chicagoan, she lived unapologetically as a brilliant black woman, doctor, lesbian, and advocate. She uncompromisingly lived her purpose as a caring, dedicated counselor and devotedly guided the healing of others until the end of her life.

Gwendolyn Carter ’74, Philadelphia, Dec. 19, 2018.

James “Jimmy” Garst ’79, North Las Vegas, Nevada, July 2019. Survivors include his sister, Sallee Garst Haerr ’74.

David I. Hennagin ’85, Lakeway, Texas, Aug. 2, 2019. David studied political science at Grinnell and then moved to Los Angeles to work in advertising. It’s also where he met his wife Jean Hagan. David’s career included award-winning campaigns and Super Bowl commercials. Survivors include his wife of 30 years and two daughters.

John F. Dalal ’87, Chico, California, Sept. 5, 2019. John launched an international fabric design company, Maharaja Me, while living in New York City. He later moved to Oakland to live near his family. He served as a board member for San Francisco Bay Area-based Camp It Up!, the first LGBTQ+ family camp in the United States. John is survived by his husband Aaron Sauberan and their son.

Ralph W. Nyberg ’88, Manhattan, Kansas, Dec. 21, 2017. Ralph was proud of his bachelor’s in history from Grinnell. He was widely read and had broad tastes in literature and music. He played the cello and also briefly guitar in a rock band. Ralph loved traveling, including family sabbaticals in England and Sweden. He enjoyed street hockey, disc golf, and briefly, cricket. Survivors include his parents, brother, and sister.

Sean P. Wieser ’93, West Des Moines, Iowa, Oct. 7, 2019. After Grinnell, Sean earned his law degree from Drake University and worked as an attorney for Dallas County (Iowa) for 20 years. He was an active Grinnell volunteer, serving on his class committee from 2005 to 2019, as a regional volunteer beginning in 2010, as a New Student Orientation volunteer in 2015, and as an externship host in 2018 and 2019. He also volunteered with his son’s Cub Scout pack. In his quiet way, he was passionate about craft beer, music, watching sports from his couch, making the world a better place, and his family. Survivors include his wife Emily Wiser, son, and brother, Paul Wieser ’95.

Jonathan “Jackie” Brown, professor of biology, died July 25, 2019, at the age of 57, following a car accident. He’d been conducting research in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

After joining the biology department at Grinnell College in 1995, Jackie rose quickly to the rank of full professor. He regularly taught a First-Year Tutorial; Introduction to Biological Enquiry; Organisms, Evolution, and Ecology; Animal Behavior; History of Biological Thought; and Mechanisms of Evolution. Jackie wholeheartedly embraced the liberal arts. He loved not only biology, but also literature, theatre, art, and foreign languages. He played a pivotal role in transforming the biology department’s first-year teaching into a model where students learn to ask questions, develop answers, and then communicate those answers in the way that biologists do. His deep belief in the active nature of practicing biology was reflected in every aspect of his teaching.

Jackie was admired and loved by his students and colleagues for inspirational teaching, supportive mentoring of student researchers, and dedicated service. His research in evolutionary biology generated dozens of scholarly publications, earned generous support from the National Science Foundation, and left a legacy of numerous former students who themselves became professional scientists.

Jackie spent countless hours at the Conard Environmental Research Area (CERA), where he served as director and often taught. He integrated long-term research on fire effects in prairie and woodland ecosystems into his biology classes. He also skied at CERA, hunted deer there with friends, and simply enjoyed long walks on the prairie. He was dedicated to helping students find joy in nature and the study of it.

Jackie attended Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, where he met his wife Rebecca Loew. He completed his doctorate in zoology at Michigan State University’s Kellogg Biological Station in 1989. He completed postdoctoral positions at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, and Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, where he also served as a visiting assistant professor.

He is survived by his wife and his two children, Amelia Loew and Adam Loew.
The family would like to direct memorial support for scholarships and CERA. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, 733 Broad Street, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memorial donations may also be made in Jackie’s memory to The Nature Conservancy, Hawaii Chapter, Kau Preserve, an organization he and his family often contributed and collaborated with friends and colleagues in Hawaii.

Dorothy Maxeiner Beck ’40, East Wenatchee, Washington, May 24, 2019.

Fred C. Schaefer ’41, Grayslake, Illinois, April 21, 2019.

Elaine Capps Heskett ’42, Downers Grove, Illinois, Dec. 28, 2018. Elaine is survived by two children and two grandchildren.

Jean Bates Nelson ’42, Spartanburg, South Carolina, June 9, 2019. A native of Grinnell, Jean moved to New York City in 1945 to work for ABC, where she met her husband Harry Nelson on her first day. After retiring in 1990, she and Harry enjoyed many cruises and trips around the world. Jean ardently supported the arts. She is survived by two sons, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

George C. Scott ’43, St. Petersburg, Florida, May 14, 2019. George attended Grinnell College until his junior year, then joined the Navy during World War II. He became a pilot and trained fighter pilots in California and Florida. After the war, he spent his entire professional career working in photo finishing for three different companies. In the waning days of his job, George split his time between work and the golf course. He is survived by two children, three grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Robert D. Watkins ’44, Bettendorf, Iowa, May 17, 2019. Robert was a member of his class committee from 2004 to 2019. Survivors include his children, Suzanne Watkins Klein ’65 and David Watkins ’67.

Norman K. Peters ’46, Granger, Indiana, March 16, 2019. During World War II, Norman served as a U.S. Navy ensign at a hospital for wounded soldiers returning from combat. He received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Purdue University. An aerospace engineer at Bendix Corp. (now Honeywell), Norm was integral in the design and development of the Typhoon and Talos missiles. In 1960, he joined Hewlett Packard Corp. and worked directly with Bill Hewlett. After marrying, he and his wife moved back to South Bend, Indiana, where Norm resumed his career with Bendix. He was granted two U.S. patents throughout his career. He is survived by his wife Mary Landram Peters, two children, and two grandchildren.

Kathleen Van Trigt Persons ’47, Granada Hills, California, March 21, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell College, Kay moved to Van Nuys, California, to pursue a career with American Mortgage and Lending. In 1953, she became an escrow officer, and by 1965 she was an executive escrow officer at Manufacturers Bank in Encino, California. She was married to Erwin “Bud” Persons Jr. for 70 years. Kay was very involved in the Catholic Church, the Arts Council at California State University-Northridge, Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society, and VFW and was a leader of many organized bridge clubs.

David C. Jelinek ’49, Bluemont, Virginia, May 11, 2019. Before coming to Grinnell in 1945 and majoring in history, David served as a bombardier on a B-24 with the 458th Bombardment Group, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. While a student at Grinnell, he studied at the University of Stockholm for three semesters. David entered the Foreign Service and with his wife Dorothy was assigned as vice consul in Venice and Palermo, Italy, and Salzburg, Austria. In 1961 he was detailed to the John F. Kennedy White House, where he was engaged in executive recruiting. He transferred to and retired from the U.S. Department of Justice. After retiring in 1979, David was very active in local community service. He is survived by his wife of 68 years; three sons, including Richard Jelinek ’74; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

The Rev. Don R. Yungclas ’50, Grinnell, Iowa, April 15, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Don attended Chicago Theological Seminary and was ordained in 1955. He and his wife Patricia Packard ’51, whom he met on a blind date, were married in 1949. Don served as a pastor in churches in Washington state, Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois. He spent the latter half of his career as a conference minister in several different states. He was awarded the Grinnell College Alumni Award in 2013. In 2015, Don and Pat moved back to Grinnell and lived in the Mayflower Community. Survivors include his wife; sister-in-law, Karen Kraft Packard ’54; brother-in-law, B. Gordon Packard ’58; nephew, Bruce Packard ’81; five children; 10 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Richard M. Boehmler ’51, Missoula, Montana, May 30, 2019. Dick met his wife Doris Cozzens Boehmler ’49 at Grinnell. He transferred to the University of Iowa and earned his doctorate in 1953. As a child, Dick suffered from severe stuttering. He developed an extremely effective model for speech therapy that cured his own stuttering and helped hundreds of clients overcome theirs. He helped found the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Montana. He was also an environmental and wilderness activist. Survivors include his wife of nearly 70 years; brother, Robert Boehmler ’52; three children; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

William A. Hall ’51, Farmington, New Mexico, May 19, 2019. An Iowa native, Bill studied at Pacific University and Grinnell College and earned his doctorate of optometry from Southern Illinois College of Optometry. After practicing in the U.S. Navy for several years, Bill decided to set up his practice in New Mexico. He loved his career and remained in practice until he was 84. Bill served as a city councilman and was praised for his committed service of enriching the community. He is survived by his wife Suzanne Lynn Hall, four children, and nine grandchildren.

Jean Barnett Kramer ’52, Midland, Michigan, July 6, 2018. Jean attended Grinnell College for two years then left to train as an X-ray technician. Jean was a devoted member of Knox Presbyterian Church and served in its Stephen Ministry. She enjoyed golfing, playing bridge, swimming, biking, and vacationing in Maui, Hawaii. All her life, Jean was a diehard Chicago Cubs fan and made sure that she lived long enough to see them win the World Series. Above all, she loved being with her family. She is survived by her three sons, two stepsons, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Charles E. Dunham ’53, Montpelier, Virginia, May 1, 2019. Chuck served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After graduating from Grinnell College, he worked for Quaker Oats Co. for 30 years and retired as plant manager of its frozen food plant in Jackson, Tennessee. Chuck was named man of the year by the Jackson Chamber of Commerce in 1987. He was invested in his local community, serving on the boards of the Boy Scouts of America and Jackson Arts and on the Council Advisory Board of Lambuth University in Jackson, now part of the University of Memphis. Chuck is survived by two children, one stepdaughter, and six grandchildren.

Diana Kratoville Garoian ’53, Carbondale, Illinois, April 20, 2019. Diana attended Grinnell College for two years then graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a bachelor’s in education. A lifelong member of Alpha Chi Omega, a member of Southern Illinois University Women’s Club, and a Cub Scout leader, Diana was always invested in the communities around her. She loved to work in her Japanese garden. Survivors include two children and two grandchildren.

William “Neale” Kelley ’53, Lincoln, Nebraska, May 10, 2019. Neale completed his bachelor’s degree at the University of Iowa. He worked in banking for many years, retiring in 1997 as senior vice president of First National Bank in Fairbury, Nebraska. Survivors include his wife Patricia Vriezelaar Kelley, three children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Donald W. Pederson ’53, Lincoln, Nebraska, June 2, 2019. Don earned his law degree at the University of Nebraska and started his career first as deputy county attorney in Scotts Bluff County and later in private practice, building his own firm. In 1996 he was appointed to the Nebraska legislature and eventually served 10 years, after which he was term-limited. He is survived by his wife June Remington Pederson, four sons, 12 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Larry “Nick” Nickander ’54, Edina, Minnesota, Feb. 26, 2019. After Grinnell, Nick served four years in the U.S. Air Force as part of Strategic Air Command and piloting B-25s. Following his military career, he spent most of his time in the work force as a manufacturer’s representative for Broyhill Industries. His favorite pastimes were boating, telling stories, and enjoying the serenity of his cabin on Big Sandy Lake. Nick was a longstanding member of the American Legion and Presidents Club of the North Central Home Furnishings Association. He is survived by his wife Vivette Nickander, two children, and a granddaughter.

Nancy “Anna” Hummel Dallner ’55, St. Paul, Minnesota, Sept. 1, 2018. In her first semester at Grinnell College, Nancy was named to the dean’s list and earned the Phi Beta Kappa book award for academic excellence in the end of her first year. She and her husband moved to the Twin Cities, where they raised their family and enjoyed neighborhood bridge parties. Nancy worked for Target Corp. managing store technology. After moving around the Midwest and to Arizona briefly, they returned to Minnesota in 2015; and Nancy enjoyed her days reading and cheering on her favorite sports teams. Nancy is survived by her husband Robert Dallner, four children, and three grandchildren.

Charles A. Gessler ’55, Torrance, California, April 27, 2019. Charles was a distinguished public defender who worked diligently to provide legal advocacy on behalf of those accused of crimes. He was a longstanding member of St. Cross Episcopal Church.

Carolyn Raffety Knutson ’55, St. Paul, Minnesota, May 27, 2019. Carolyn acted as a class agent in 2019. Survivors include her brother, Seymour Raffety ’54; niece, Jennifer Peek ’13; three children; and six grandchildren.

H. Keith Long ’55, Fort Collins, Colorado, May 17, 2019. In 2000, Keith retired from his career as a chemist in Denver. He loved vintage cars, card games, computer games, woodworking, sailing, camping, and reading. His true passion was for flying. As a student, Keith kept his plane at a nearby airfield in Grinnell. He is survived by his wife Kay Long, three children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Margaret Barnard Stubbs ’56, Baltimore, June 15, 2019. Peggy worked as a child welfare specialist at the state and local levels in Maryland for more than 20 years. She is survived by her siblings, Elizabeth Barnard Brooke ’54 and Thomas Barnard ’61.

Carol Gibson Selby ’57, Davenport, Iowa, June 2, 2019. After college, Carol worked until she started a family, then returned to the work force when her children were all in school. She worked for the Davenport Community School District and retired as an administrative assistant after 31 years. Carol always looked forward to family fishing trips to Minnesota and loved to visit the family farm. She is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Kathleen Paasch Hunter ’59, Washington, D.C., Nov. 5, 2018. Kathy enjoyed reading and had a keen interest in history and political affairs. She loved raising children and took joy in the innocence and curiosity of all babies and toddlers. She is survived by her husband John Hunter, four children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Harris E. Ulery ’59, Newark, Delaware, June 18, 2019. After Grinnell, Harris earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the California Institute of Technology. He spent his career as a laboratory research chemist with DuPont in Delaware, where he occasionally worked on projects beyond the confines of chemistry. His thirst for knowledge never waned, and he pursued a variety of hobbies that included languages, aviation, computer programming, woodworking, birding, and gardening. For many years he volunteered as a tutor at Delaware School for the Deaf and Literacy Delaware. His memories from Grinnell provided a rich source for stories he loved to share. He is survived by his former wife, Dana Tanzer Ulery ’59; two children; and two grandchildren.

Janet “Jill” Gleysteen Dill ’60, Wilmington, Delaware, May 13, 2019. Jill is survived by her sister, Glenore Gleysteen Jerrard ’69.

John “Jack” Pitts ’61, Santa Rosa, California, May 13, 2019.

Patricia Haley ’63, May 19, 2019. Pat studied art and French at Grinnell and completed her degree at San Francisco State University in 1964. She taught art at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School in San Mateo, California. In 1980, she became a realtor in San Mateo and the Santa Maria valley. Pat was the sales manager at multiple firms throughout her career. Always active in the community, she was a regular and passionate contributor at Rotary, Kiwanis, and Minerva. She enjoyed traveling the world and was a lifelong lover of the arts. She is survived by three children and four grandchildren.

The Rev. Allen L. Lewis ’63, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, April 29, 2019. Allen attended Grinnell College and Augustana College before embarking on a 13-year career in the trucking industry, rising to president of Midwest Coast Transportation. Allen returned to Augustana College and received a bachelor’s in 1980. He later went on to earn his master’s of divinity from the University of the South, School of Theology. He served as a pastor in towns across the Midwest, including Sioux Falls and Sturgis, South Dakota. Even retiring in 2012, he offered continued support to local churches in Lahaina, Hawaii. Allen is survived by his wife Brenda Anderson Lewis, four children, and five grandchildren.

Mary Barnard Litts ’64, Las Cruces, New Mexico, July 5, 2019. Mary graduated from the University of Iowa after attending Grinnell. She worked at the University of Iowa for more than 40 years in a number of different positions, finally as the director of volunteer services at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. While director, she created a number of programs meant to improve the patient and family experience, such as a certified dog visitation service. Mary was also involved in the Iowa Directors of Volunteer Services, Rotary International, and the League of Women Voters in New Mexico. She is survived by her husband Stephen Litts, two children, and two grandsons.

Mary Jane Cooper ’68, North Port, Florida, May 20, 2019. Janie was a member of the synchronized swim team and the board of Associated Women Students at Grinnell. She worked as a computer programmer in Iowa, Minnesota, and Massachusetts for many years before moving to Florida. She was a successful executive assistant and director of marketing for a local general contractor. Her many personal passions included playing tennis and writing letters to the editor of the local paper, many of which were featured in print. She served on her class committee from 2006 to 2011. Janie is survived by her son and daughter and two grandchildren.

Karen Smith ’69, Chicago, May 5, 2019.

Kathleen Ogle Ronnebaum ’72, Baileyville, Kansas, May 7, 2019. Kathleen graduated from Grinnell with a major in history with an emphasis on Slavic studies. She earned a master’s in elementary education from Emporia State University and later a master’s in special education from Kansas State University. Kathleen taught gifted students for most of her career and led many academic competitions such as a Geography Bee, Scholar’s Bowl, and math activities. She was a founding member of the Seneca Quilt Guild, taught quilting lessons, and was regionally recognized for her artistic ability. Kathleen is survived by her husband Elmer Ronnebaum and two children.

Joyce Nakamura-Tanoue ’73, Honolulu, May 10, 2019. Joyce graduated from Grinnell and returned home to Hawaii, where she earned her medical degree at the University of Hawaii. She completed her OB-GYN training and worked at the Honolulu Medical Group before joining Kaiser Permanente Group. Joyce retired in 2014 after 28 years with Kaiser. She enjoyed making crafts and playing the guitar and piano. She is survived by her husband Ross Tanoue and two sons.

Robert C. Creasey ’74, Waterloo, Iowa, Sept. 21, 2018. After graduating from Grinnell, Bob earned his law degree at the University of Iowa College of Law. He spent most of his career teaching at Western Iowa Tech Community College. He loved grilling fine cuts of steak and was a practiced photographer. Bob served on his class committee from 2004 to 2007 and was a class solicitor from 2010 to 2012. Survivors include his brother, Bill Creasey ’69; nephew, David Creasey ’04; and two children.

Dennis E. Lamb ’80, Grinnell, Iowa, May 29, 2019. Dennis grew up in Grinnell and graduated from Grinnell High School and Grinnell College. In his youth, he and his brother, Dale Lamb ’78, made a business venture in shoveling snow and mowing lawns for $3 to $5 per house. After college, he taught in the Grinnell School district as a full-time and substitute teacher. Dennis was an athletic and artistic child and balanced both of those pastimes well into adulthood. Survivors include his brother; sister-in law, Mary Finn Lamb ’80; and parents, sister, and a nephew.

Kevin J. Lang ’83, Sunnyvale, California, April 29, 2019. Kevin was a math major and a member of the Grinnell Singers. He won the Archibald Prize his senior year, awarded to the student with the highest grade point average. He earned a doctorate in computer science in 1989 from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh and worked as a computer science researcher for several different companies, including Yahoo, which recognized him as a “master inventor” in 2015. He published more than 30 research papers during his time with Yahoo. Survivors include his parents; brother, David Lang ’87; and two half-sisters.

David N. Mitchell ’90, Pelham, New York, June 22, 2019. After David majored in English at Grinnell, he worked for various companies in Chicago before returning to his native New York. He married Lestiyani Mitchell in 2008. Most recently he worked for Stroz Friedberg, a risk management Aon company, as a project manager. David was a voracious reader, had a deep interest in history, and loved listening to jazz. He is survived by his wife, three children, his mother, and his sister.

Heather Strait ’93, Elbert, Colorado, June 16, 2019. She is survived by two children.

Staff

Leota May Brown, Chesterfield, Missouri, April 28, 2019. Leota was 89. She spent many years at Grinnell College as secretary with the athletics department. She is survived by a daughter, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Claribel Clark Taylor ’36, Atlanta, Dec. 23, 2018. Claribel grew up playing the organ for her local church services and used this skill to fund her tuition at Grinnell. After graduating from Grinnell, she continued her higher education at Westminster Choir College and took up an organist position at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, where she married Hubert Vance Taylor. Claribel was a baseball fan who loved cheering on the Atlanta Crackers at the old ballpark and even attended the inaugural game at the new Atlanta Braves stadium. She is survived by her children, four grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. 

Catharine Bousquet Evans ’38, Des Moines, Iowa, Feb. 1, 2019. Katie graduated from Roosevelt Senior High School as salutatorian in 1934, two years ahead of her class. She married Dayl Thomas Evans ’37 in 1940. She assisted in the creation of the PEO Record at PEO International’s Des Moines headquarters. An active member of Grinnell College’s Alumni Council, Katie received an Alumni Award in 1968 and 2008. She is survived by her three sons, including Thomas A. Evans ’64; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Elizabeth Sheetz Kadarauch ’39, Medford, Oregon, Feb. 7, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Elizabeth attended the Eastman School of Music, where she met her future husband, Robert Kadarauch. She was a gifted pianist and often performed with her musically talented family. Elizabeth is survived by three sons, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. 

Vera Babka Kotiza ’39, Chesterfield, Missouri, Mar. 2, 2019. Vera majored in music and sang in the Chicago Metropolitan Opera Chorus in many different languages. After graduating, she pursued a career as a music instructor and physical education teacher in Michigan and later her hometown of Cicero, Illinois. She taught middle school music classes for more than 30 years and conducted church choir productions. Vera loved to travel the world, visiting Hawaii, Italy, Fiji, Mexico, China, and many more countries. Vera is survived by a daughter, two grandchildren, and great-grandson. 

Betty Bare Ver Burg ’40, Claremont, California, Oct. 4, 2018.

Milton A. Johnson ’41, Newark, Delaware, Aug. 16, 2018. Milton served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After the war, he completed a bachelor’s in business from Grinnell and enjoyed a 35-year career at Equitable Life Assurance. A dedicated hockey fan, Milton loved to cheer on his favorite team, the New Jersey Devils. He is survived by his daughter, granddaughter, and two great-grandchildren. 

Marie Layer Coleman ’43, Arlington Heights, Illinois, Feb. 15, 2018. Marie is survived by a daughter and four grandchildren. 

Lorna McCleary Patterson ’43, Medford, Oregon, Jan. 6, 2019. Laurie studied chemistry at Grinnell, where she met her husband Clair Patterson ’43. After graduation, she worked on the atomic bomb at the Oak Ridge Laboratory in Tennessee and taught high school science for many years.
In 1993, she won a Grinnell College Alumni Award. She is survived by three children, Charles Patterson ’73, Susan Patterson ’74, Cameron Patterson ’75; and three grandchildren, including Brian Patterson ’10.

Roberta Carlton Heller ’44, Fredericksburg, Texas, Nov. 4, 2018. After attending Grinnell for two years, Bobbie transferred to the University of Minnesota, earning her degree in elementary education. During World War II, she worked as a telephone operator. In 1979, Bobbie began working as a realtor for Ebby Halliday Realtors in Dallas and was a million-dollar producer in her career. Bobbie loved playing bridge and mah-jongg with close friends and family members. She is survived by three children, 15 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren. 

D. Robert Levering ’44, Naples, Florida, Jan. 20, 2019. Bob served as a submarine officer during World War II, graduated from Grinnell in 1944, and later earned a doctorate in organic chemistry. He worked with Hercules Powder Co. and its affiliates for his entire career, eventually rising to the company’s top executive level. He was married to Virginia Lee Brantner, the love of his life, for 60 years. Bob was a Life Master bridge player and loved playing games with his family in his spare time. He is survived by two children and a grandson. 

Barbara Perine O’Neill ’45, Gold River, California, Dec. 31, 2018. Barbara attended Grinnell College for one year, then returned home to complete her bachelor’s at the University of Minnesota. After college, she moved to San Diego, working as a “Rosie, the riveter” and as a social worker. Travel, both domestically and abroad, was an integral part of Barbara’s life, thanks to her husband Donald O’Neill’s career with Standard Oil. Barbara is survived by four children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. 

Joyce Sylvester Bailey ’47, Duluth, Minnesota, Apr. 27, 2018. Joyce loved to spend time with her family solving puzzles, playing with her dogs, and going to see her grandkids’ and great-grandkids’ school events and programs. She is survived by her daughters, 15 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. 

William H. Halper ’47, Highland Park, Illinois, Aug. 24, 2018. Following his graduation from Grinnell, Bill returned to Chicago to help his father run Halper Publishing Co., which published Made to Measure Magazine. The magazine was originally about custom menswear and was published for tailors. When ready-to-wear menswear became popular, Bill pivoted the magazine to uniforms. For decades, the magazine was known as the “bible of the uniform industry.” Bill is survived by his wife Joan Halper and their children and grandchildren. 

Kenneth C. Kitterman ’47, Webster City, Iowa, Feb. 1, 2018. Kenneth served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1944–46. Afterward, he earned a four-year teaching certificate from the Iowa State Teachers College and was employed to teach industrial arts in Grand Junction. He was later a coach and teacher at Geneseo Community Schools. In 1992, Iowa Central Community College hired Kenneth as the bookstore manager. He is survived by his wife Bonnie Kitterman, three children, six grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. 

Barbara Macoubrey Thorne-
Thomsen ’47, Shreveport, Louisiana, Feb. 5, 2019. Barbara studied speech pathology and acted in several theatre productions while at Grinnell College. She met Fletcher Thorne-Thomsen, a soldier doing training at Grinnell during World War II, and they married after the war. Later, she returned to college to earn her master’s in social work from Louisiana State University. Barbara loved her career as a therapist and never considered retiring until she was 90 years old. She is survived by four children, seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and her niece and nephew, Leslie Rayson Amundson ’69 and Christopher Rayson ’71.

Jewell Marie “Rusty” Brunner Freeburg ’48, Bozeman, Montana,
Feb. 3, 2019. On her first day at Grinnell, Jewell’s roommates dubbed her “Rusty” for her red hair. Originally from Nora Springs, Iowa, Rusty graduated from Grinnell with degrees in speech and drama and became a speech therapist in Elgin, Illinois, schools. She married William Freeburg of Elgin, and they raised their family with much fun and laughter about grammatically correct speech. Rusty always made time to help kids with speech and reading. Rusty is survived by three children and two grandchildren.

Jean Van Horn Cavanaugh ’48, Great Bend, Kansas, Feb. 21, 2019. Jean attended Grinnell College and the University of Minnesota. She is survived by her nephew, Patrick Cavanaugh ’69, and niece, Susan Cavanaugh Butcher ’73.

Bayard T. French ’49, Silver Bay, Minnesota, Jul. 26, 2018. Bayard served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later graduated from Grinnell. He met and married Barbara Wetherell ’49; they were married for 54 years. Bayard earned his medical degree from the University of Iowa Medical School. He took part in the development of the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, founded to serve the needs of rural and indigenous people’s communities. He is survived by four sons, eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, his nephew Barton Dunning ’66, niece, Cidney Dunning Walter ’67, brother-in-law, Kenneth Gordon ’71, and his companion Carol Townsend.

Dolores Shockney Riddick ’49, Memphis, Tennessee, Jan. 25, 2019.

Anne “Breezy” Bresnahan Adams ’50, Ladera Ranch, California, Sept. 20, 2018. Anne was a stellar athlete and competed in the 1948 Olympic Swimming Trials while attending Grinnell College. Though she did not make the Olympic team, she remained dedicated to the sport. She was a swim coach and helped build a successful program for adult athletes, in which she also competed. Over the years, Anne won many gold medals and held a number of world records. At 74, within 12 months of having aortic valve replacement surgery, she entered, swam, and won a 5K open water race. In 2017, Anne was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. She is survived by four children, two grandchildren, and two brothers, including Richard Bresnahan ’59. 

N. Sue Hardy Carr ’50, Bremerton, Washington, Dec.14, 2018. Sue worked as a secretary in private industry in Illinois and Florida and later joined the International Cooperation Administration, which became the U.S. Agency for International Development, a branch of the U.S. Department of State. She followed assignments in Thailand, Iran, Laos, and Washington and eventually joined her husband on assignments in Nigeria and Vietnam. Her survivors include three stepsons and one step-granddaughter. 

Betty Klett Johnson ’50, Oak Park, Illinois, May 2, 2018. Betty attended Grinnell College and then graduated from the University of Denver with a degree in speech-language pathology. She worked as a speech therapist for the Chicago public school system and got her master’s in speech pathology from Northwestern University. While raising her family, Betty worked at Easter Seals and became the program director for the Chicago area. Later, she became the Oak Park site director for Head Start. Betty is survived by two children and two granddaughters. 

Patricia Flanagan Judd ’50, Boulder, Colorado, Oct. 20, 2018. After graduating from Grinnell, Trish completed graduate work in English at North Texas State University. She taught English at several community colleges and Texas Tech University. While living in Dallas, she formed a small group at the First Unitarian Church of Dallas that was instrumental in the lawsuit that eventually led to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. Survivors include two sons, seven grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. 

Leonard “Bud” Leonard Jr. ’50, Gaithersburg, Maryland, Dec. 29, 2018. 

Jean Bouma Ruth ’50, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Jan. 14, 2019. Alumni Award recipient in 1975, Jean was born and raised in Grinnell. After high school she worked for the FBI during World War II and never revealed the secrets of her work. She returned to Grinnell College and married her sweetheart Royal Francis “Bud” Ruth ’49 on graduation day. She worked at a Cerebral Palsy Clinic for children in Edmonton and obtained her doctorate in psychology from the University of Alberta. Jean was active as a class agent for Grinnell and helped gather clothing and supplies for those in need in Edmonton and in Eastern Europe from about 1968 to 1988. She is survived by her son, Makino Ruth ’79; nieces, Ellen Bouma Barnes ’75 (Marvin Barnes ’76) and Margaret Bouma ’72; and great-nephew, Adrian Barnes ’05. 

Robert D. Tomasek ’50, Lawrence, Kansas, April 7, 2019. Bob majored in history at Grinnell. During his first stint in graduate school, he was drafted and served in the Korean War. Afterward he earned a master’s and doctorate in political science at the University of Michigan. He married Ruth Waltershausen in 1953, and in 1957 he joined the faculty at the University of Kansas, where he taught Latin American affairs and international law for 35 years. His research covered controversies in Latin America, such as exile disputes and arms races. His survivors include three daughters and three grandchildren.

Nancy Cornforth Campbell ’51, Fort Collins, Colorado, Jan. 7, 2019. Nancy attended Grinnell College for three semesters and later finished college at the University of Denver. She married Laird Campbell in 1948 and they raised four children. She began her teaching career as a substitute, then became a fifth-grade teacher. In a perfect marriage of her interest in education and love for the outdoors, Nancy helped open Skyland, a summer camp program in Colorado. She is survived by three children and 11 grandchildren.  

C. Morton Cliff ’51, Palm Springs, California, Sept. 12, 2018.

Ritta Randolph Kurth ’51, Ackley, Iowa, Dec. 11, 2018. Ritta graduated from Grinnell with a major in art. She pursued a successful career with the Ackley World Journal in its advertising department. One of her favorite hobbies was quilting, and she made sure to pass along a quilt to every one of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She is survived by four children, 14 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. 

Alice Van Housen Littlefield ’51, Neenah, Wisconsin, Aug. 25, 2018. Alice attended Grinnell and then graduated from Lawrence College in 1951. She married Charles Littlefield in 1953. She had many jobs over the years, including serving at her husband’s law firm and driving a school bus. Well known for her holiday generosity, Alice baked and delivered roughly 30 of her special coffeecakes each year. She is survived by her three children, five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and her siblings. 

Ruth Martin Minter ’51, Loveland, Colorado, March 15, 2019. Ruth loved to travel, spend time at her family’s cabin, and host a bed-and-breakfast. She is survived by her husband, children, and grandchildren. 

Marilyn Reeling Hallman ’52, Mount Prospect, Illinois, Dec. 10, 2018. After graduating from Grinnell, Marilyn became a third-grade teacher at South School in Des Plaines. While raising her family, she worked as a part-time reporter for The Arlington Heights Daily Herald, penning its weekly children’s crafts column, “Kids Korner.” Her investment in children’s development and education continued to grow as she volunteered in the PTA, was a Girl Scout leader, and acted as a cultural arts chairman at Fairview School. She is survived by her husband Newt Hallman, three children, and 10 grandchildren. 

Sylvia “Sibby” Redding Soh ’52, Santa Rosa, California, May 25, 2018.

Bruce Cole ’53, Scottsdale, Arizona, Feb. 22, 2019. Bruce was an English-journalism major at Grinnell. He married the love of his life, Jane Bagby Cole ’53, on the day they graduated. The two Midwesterners lived in the Sonoran Desert in the Southwest for 40 years. They loved hiking, music, art, growing flowers, and listening to or reading the stories around them. In 1989, Bruce won an Alumni Award. He’s survived by two daughters, including Dorothy Cole Domrzalski ’79. 

William K. Keister ’53, Council Bluffs, Iowa, Feb. 28, 2019.

Peter Adams Gaertner ’54, Lake Elmo, Minnesota, June 21, 2018. Peter loved traveling, cheering on the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, and supporting her favorite competitors, her grandkids. She is survived by six children, 15 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Sarah Morris Winckelman ’54, Malvern, Pennsylvania, March 18, 2019.

John Derber ’55, Boulder, Colorado, Oct. 22, 2018.

Edwin T. Ho ’55, Honolulu, Dec. 31, 2018. After graduating from Grinnell in 1955, he requested that his graduate studies be postponed until he fulfilled his military service, which he did in 1960. From 1965–68 he served as a Foreign Service officer in Venezuela, Ecuador, and Canada. He was in the Air Force Reserve, retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1993. Ed was married to Mildred Ho for 52 years. His survivors include his brother, Albert Ho ’58. 

Beverly Valentine McClintock ’55, Ankeny, Iowa, Oct. 6, 2018. Beverly met John McClintock ’53 at Grinnell and they married in 1953. She was a homemaker and got involved with many of her husband’s activities and social organizations. She volunteered at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, and was also a member of the PEO Sisterhood. She is survived by two daughters, two sons, two grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter.

James Owens ’55, Lincoln, Nebraska, Feb. 12, 2019. After graduating from Grinnell, Jim served two years in the U.S. Army. He spent a few years working for Keystone Lumber Co. in Loup City, Nebraska, where he also held a position on the city council. James moved on to work at the Nebraska State Bank, retiring as president in 1990. He is survived by his wife Mary Lea Domingo Owens, two children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. 

Barbara Ramsey ’55, Arlington, Virginia, Nov. 27, 2018. After graduating from Grinnell, Barbara worked as appointments secretary for U.S. Sen. Hubert H. Humphrey and held that position during his tenure as vice president. She later worked as an environmental protection specialist at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. She was member of the PEO Sisterhood and a performer in the Choral Arts Society of Washington, D.C. She is survived by a nephew and three nieces. 

Della “Adele” Narcisi Nelson ’56, Sedona, Arizona, Dec.10, 2018. Adele was an inspired student at Grinnell and a passionate teacher throughout her career. She married Kent Nelson in 1959. She loved her job at Bishop Dwenger High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and was proud of all the students she helped nurture. She was the first recipient of the school’s Teacher of the Year award in 1985 and was inducted into Bishop Dwenger’s Hall of Fame in 2015. She is survived by two sons and a granddaughter.  

James “Tony” A. Beals ’58, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oct. 26, 2018. Tony received his education at Rensselaer Institute and Grinnell College, then served in the U.S. Air Force. He pursued a career with IBM and Pricer Inc. and traveled the world. He loved the Oklahoma City community, his hometown and where he lived most of his life, and was a leader in Kiwanis and the English Speaking Union. 

Thomas R. Gillan ’58, Denton, Maryland, March 29, 2019. After receiving a bachelor’s from Grinnell, Thomas went on to receive a second bachelor’s in forestry. His forestry career spread over many decades, first with Koppers Co. and later as a self-employed logger. He worked for the State of Maryland as an environmental health specialist for 10 years. Survivors include his wife of 60 years Barbara McVay Gillan, two children, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his sister, Nancy Gillan Bloom ’57.

Ellen Taylor Huppert ’58, San Francisco, Nov. 13, 2018. Ellen completed her bachelor’s at Northwestern University, a master’s at Harvard University, and a doctorate in modern European history at the University of California, Berkeley. She spent her adult life in San Francisco and taught classes at San Francisco State and Holy Names University. After her teaching career ended, Ellen remained a stalwart defender of education, founding both the Institute for Historical Study and the San Francisco Parents’ Lobby, serving as president for each organization. She is survived by two children and three grandsons. 

Judith Mullens Burke ’59, Omaha, Nebraska, March 14, 2019. Judith is survived by four children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Karen Senty Ewing ’59, Chesapeake, Virginia, Jan. 28, 2019. Karen was always devoted to her family. She supported her husband Richard Ewing’s naval career and later opened an equipment rental store with him. Her favorite hobbies were entertaining friends, playing bridge, feeding birds and squirrels, and writing handwritten notes and letters. She was also an active volunteer at her church and received the Alumni Award in 1990. She is survived by her two children, four grandchildren, and a great-grandson. 

Sandra Petrus Griffith ’59, Council Bluffs, Iowa, Feb. 2, 2019. Sandra attended Grinnell College and the University of Iowa. She and her husband Robert owned R.C. Griffith Walnut Co. She was a member of First Christian Church and was an active participant in the Council Bluffs Service League. Sandra and her husband frequently visited Leech Lake in Walker, Minnesota, and loved spending time outdoors. She is survived by one son, six grandchildren, and great-grandchildren

Judith Bourne Stone ’60, Barrington, Illinois, June 9, 2018. After attending Grinnell College, Judith earned a master’s in social work from the University of Michigan, as did her late husband Judson Stone ’61. She began her career with the University of Michigan’s Center for Population Planning and served as a director of the Interdisciplinary Project on Child Abuse and Neglect at the University of Michigan Hospital. In 1964, Judith was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but that neither hindered nor stopped her commitment to helping those in her community. Survivors include two sons and four grandchildren. 

James A. Ahrens ’62, Grinnell, Iowa, March 4, 2019. Born and raised in Grinnell, James graduated from Grinnell High School and Grinnell College, as well as Iowa State University. He entered the U.S. Air Force shortly after and served as a radar controller and public affairs officer. He married his college sweetheart, local artist Julie Williams. He taught at Wentworth Military Academy in Missouri and commanded the 418th Civil Affairs Unit that mobilized during the first Gulf War. He retired from military service at the rank of lieutenant colonel. James was a member of his Grinnell College class committee from 2011 to 2019. He is survived by his second wife Sue Ahrens, two children, two stepchildren, and four grandchildren.

Craig A. Rolfs ’62, Menominee, Michigan, Dec. 20, 2018. Craig graduated from the University of South Dakota in 1962 and from Drake University Law School in 1965. He began practicing law in Parkersburg, Iowa, where he also served as the county attorney for Butler County. He moved to Menominee in 1973 where he began practicing law with the Anuta & Minerman Law Office. He was appointed as Menominee County prosecuting attorney in 1975 and in 1979 was appointed by the governor to be Menominee County judge of probate. He is survived by his wife Monica Crandall Rolfs, two sons, three stepchildren, five grandchildren, and four step-grandchildren.

Robert DeCook ’64, Venice, Florida, Feb. 12, 2019. Robert majored in philosophy at Grinnell and earned a law degree from the University of Iowa. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1967–1975. 

C. Orville Teising ’64, Mill Valley, California, Dec. 19, 2018.  At Grinnell, Orville was a track star and played lead guitar in a rock band. Following graduation, he pursued a career in sales and became vice president of marketing for ACNielsen. He loved traveling to distant countries, running marathons, and singing for a barbershop quartet and the Mayflower Chorus. He is survived by his wife Rochelle Teising, his brother John Teising ’66, two daughters, three stepchildren, and eight grandchildren.

Pamela Eschbach Wolfmeyer ’66, Winona, Minnesota, Jan. 20, 2019. Pamela graduated from Grinnell with a degree in economics and did graduate work in industrial relations at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She joined the faculty of Winona State University in 1969 as a professor in the College of Business Management, teaching courses in human resources. She earned a reputation as an excellent student adviser. She retired as full professor in 2008, which allowed her to indulge her passion for passenger trains. She rode every long-distance passenger train in the United States and Canada.  She is survived by her husband Marvin Wolfmeyer, three sisters, and nieces and nephews.

Suzanne Hughes James ’67, Topeka, Kansas, Aug. 1, 2018. Suzanne studied Spanish at Grinnell and went on to pursue a career in sales for Sterling Pharmaceuticals in Oklahoma. Later, she worked for the district attorney’s office with victims of violent crimes. In 1984 she married Myrlen James, with whom she shared a love of Native American history and jewelry. A lover of all animals, she provided a home for dozens of cats and dogs and was a long-standing supporter of the Humane Society. Survivors include her brother and nieces. 

Robert N. Beal ’75, Fort Stockton, Texas. Aug. 27, 2018.

Paul J. Crane ’78, La Vista, Nebraska, March 3, 2019. From a young age, Paul excelled at academics and sports and earned an academic scholarship to Grinnell College. He worked as a chaplain for Risen Son Christian Village in Council Bluffs, Iowa; as an administrator at Creston Nursing and Rehab Center, Creston, Iowa; and finally as executive director at the Primrose Retirement Community in Council Bluffs. Paul’s survivors include his wife Kelly McBride Crane, two children, and three grandchildren.

Andrew R. Preston ’78, North Palm Beach, Florida, April 10, 2019. Andy died in a car crash in a restaurant parking lot. He was a longtime radio broadcaster in Florida. Andy got his start in radio at Grinnell on KDIC and worked in radio for most of his career. He worked at stations in Hawaii and Florida, most recently as music director and afternoon drive DJ for WKGR-FM 98.7 (The Gater). 

William G. Stowe ’81, Des Moines, Iowa, April 14, 2019. Bill died of pancreatic cancer. After graduating from Grinnell, where he played basketball, Bill earned a master’s in engineering at the University of Wisconsin, a master’s in labor relations at the University of Illinois, and a law degree from Loyola University. In Des Moines he worked as the city’s human resources director, as director of public works for 13 years, and as head of the water works since 2012. He was an advocate for clean water. Under his leadership, Des Moines Water Works filed a lawsuit against three northwest Iowa counties, alleging that their drainage ditches allowed nitrates to travel from farm fields to the Raccoon River. The water works lost the suit when a federal judge ruled that drainage districts don’t have the authority to mediate pollution. Survivors include his wife Amy Beattie and his son, Liam Stowe ’18. 

Steven A. Buckman ’85, Charlotte, North Carolina, Oct. 10, 2018.

James J. Rosse ’85, Springfield, Illinois, Nov. 10, 2018. James attended University of California, Los Angeles, in 1971 before serving in the U.S. Coast Guard for four years. After that, he sold boats and worked as a Volkswagen mechanic. James then attended Grinnell, where he studied biology and met his wife Nancy Suggs Rosse ’87 when he was doing dishes in a residence hall kitchen. After graduation, he worked as a computer network analyst for a variety of companies before he retired in 2004. He loved to cheer on his St. Louis Cardinals, practiced woodworking, and was a leading member of the Sangamon Table Tennis Club. Survivors include his wife and three children.

Omar Ghaffar ’99, Munster, Indiana, March 27, 2019.

Beryl Wellborn, Grinnell, Iowa, Oct. 7, 2018. During the summer following graduation from Cantril (Iowa) High School in 1942, Beryl attended Parsons College and earned his teaching certificate. He was 17 when he started teaching at a country school. His oldest student was in eighth grade, a 14-year-old. Beryl served for two years with the U.S. Army in France before completing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and taught school in several Iowa cities. He joined the Grinnell College faculty in 1958 and retired 28 years later. He served for two decades on the board of the Iowa Valley Community College; as IVCC board president, he played a pivotal role in advancing facilities projects there. A dedicated and generous member of the Grinnell community, Beryl also volunteered on the Stewart Library Board, the Grinnell-Newburg School Board, and the S.E.E.D. Committee. Beryl received an honorary degree from IVCC when he retired from the board, and Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad recognized him in 1984 for his outstanding record of community service. Beryl’s great contributions to the community and its colleges will be missed. Survivors include his wife Deena McKim Wellborn, a son, a daughter, three stepchildren, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.