Their Light Lives On

Vernon McHugh ’36

Vernon McHugh ’36, a World War II veteran who built a corporate career before becoming a rural mail carrier, died Sept. 2, 2009.

An avid golfer, Vernon also loved dogs, especially his dock hound, Snoopy.

Elizabeth Sicard Sita ’37

Elizabeth Sicard Sita ’37, a world traveler, died Feb. 11, 2013.

Known for her loving spirit, “Biddy” was dedicated to charity work and her family.

Jeanne Cotten Blum ’40

Jeanne Cotten Blum ’40, a pioneering executive and an arts and civic leader, died May 16, 2018.

Beginning her career at IBM as a demonstrator at the 1939 World’s Fair, Jeanne rose to become personnel director and president of the IBM Employees Club. After leaving the company, she raised seven children, helped run several farms, and endowed a named Swarthmore scholarship.

Jean Abrams Roberts ’40

Jean Abrams Roberts ’40, who ultimately graduated from Skidmore, died Dec. 30, 2010.

An editor at the New England Aquarium, Jean also directed its volunteer program.

Charlotte Speight ’40

Charlotte Speight ’40, a talented artist and editor, died April 15, 2015.

Preston Buckman ’41

Preston Buckman ’41, an insurance executive who was the son of a Matchbox couple and father of an alumna, died June 15, 2018.

During World War II, he served as a medic with the 104th Infantry Division in France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany, for which he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart, and was invested as a Chevalier de le Legion d’honneur by the Republic of France.

Philip Lorenz ’41

Philip Lorenz ’41, a top research chemist and passionate environmental advocate, died May 14, 2018.

In addition to his distinguished scientific career—including his 1943 recruitment to the Manhattan Project—Phil served as a deacon, elder, choir member, Sunday school teacher, and volunteer in the First Presbyterian Church in Bartlesville, Okla. His loved ones honored his longtime request for his body to be given to the University of Oklahoma Anatomical Donation program.

Margery Brearley Ward ’41

Margery Brearley Ward ’41, a devoted Quaker environmentalist, teacher, and mother, died May 7, 2018.

An avid gardener and naturalist, Margery traveled the world and was much beloved for her legendary hospitality, kindness and “always sunny presence.”

Charles Carpenter Jr. ’42

Charles Carpenter Jr. ’42, who ultimately graduated from Wilmington College, died April 11, 2015.

Beginning as a caseworker, Charles rose through the ranks to become the commissioner of Poughkeepsie, N.Y.’s Department of Social Services.

Sally Yocum ’43

Sally Yocum ’43, who attended Swarthmore, Barnard, and Smith, died June 6, 2013.

As her loved ones wrote: “She believed life was to be enjoyed: Dessert first was always an option for Sally, who boasted that she never did a sit-up in her life. Sally was loyal, generous, tough, and unflappable.”

Philip Pendleton ’43

Philip Pendleton ’43, who rode the rails across the country during the Great Depression, died June 5, 2012.

A World War II veteran decorated with the Silver Star and the Purple Heart, “Red” founded a still-successful sales agency business and loved to play golf, read, and volunteer in retirement.

Irene Bany Magaziner ’43

Irene Bany Magaziner ’43, a compassionate, world-changing librarian and community activist, died March 11, 2018.

Described by her loved ones as “a broad-minded, philosophical individual with a wonderful sense of humor who was easy to talk to and a great listener,” Irene helped form the Open Space Committee of Upper Dublin (Pa.), which ultimately ensured 6 percent of the township remained recreational space.

John Pichtelberger ’45

John Pichtelberger ’45, a Navy veteran who proudly served in World War II, died May 14, 2018.

In addition to his award-winning, three-decade career working for the Naval Air Propulsion Center—where he retired as head of his division—John was also proud of his 1945 title as amateur light middleweight boxing champ.

John Graves ’45

John Graves ’45, who was known as Jack to family and friends, died May 24, 2015.

A research veterinarian, Jack traveled the world to help other countries develop anti-viral vaccines for livestock.

Yoneji Fukunaga ’46

Yoneji Fukunaga ’46, beloved by his large family, died March 10, 2015.

Martin “Ernie” Luther ’46

Martin “Ernie” Luther ’46, a writer who loved music and gardening, died Feb 3, 2016.

Marjorie Colwell Boardman ’46

Marjorie Colwell Boardman ’46, who was married to the late Harry Boardman ’44, died April 2, 2013.

“Marjorie exemplified grace and beauty while caring more about others than herself, including many friends, animals, and those in need,” her loved ones wrote.

Cay Sawyer Colberg ’46

Cay Sawyer Colberg ’46, a dedicated teacher who loved sewing, gardening, and politics, died Nov. 1, 2011.

An advocate for medical education, Cay donated her body to science.

August Giulianelli NV

August Giulianelli NV, a Navy veteran and mechanical systems engineer, died Dec. 27, 2011.

Receiving several commendations for his work on the Apollo Space Program, August was proudest to be known as a loving father, devoted husband, and dedicated friend.

Thomas Trafzer NV

Thomas Trafzer NV, an engineer whose seven-year Navy career included stations in Rhode Island and Hawaii, died July 2, 2012.

Proud of his large family, Tom was also a world traveler who eventually explored all the non-arctic continents.

Ronald Hill NV

Ronald Hill NV, a veteran who survived the attack on Pearl Harbor and returned to serve in the Korean War, died June 20, 2012.

As a civilian, Ronald built an impressive career at Martin Marietta as an assistant subcontract director and also sang in his church’s choir for many years.

Roderick Specht NV

Roderick Specht NV, who served as an ensign on the USS Fanshaw Bay and later built a career in food service equipment sales, died Oct. 12, 2013.

An avid skier, sailor, and camper, Rod was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Cranford for 49 years and was also the assistant scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 80.

Robert Shurts NV

Robert Shurts NV, a Navy veteran who served in the Pacific Theatre, died May 25, 2011.

Graduating from Lehigh University, Robert received the school’s Outstanding Alumni Award in 1998.

Janet Gay Nyholm ’47

Janet Gay Nyholm ’47, a creative, faithful life force who lived in Europe and Israel after graduation, died March 5, 2018.

After meeting and marrying a Danish trout farmer and artist, Janet moved to Denmark, where the couple raised a family of five children in an old farmhouse in the woods by a stream.

“Like her husband, Janet was cremated, and their urns are sat down in a small hill where long grasses and wild flowers are blooming near our childhood home,” her children wrote in tribute.

Graham “Pete” Harrison ’47

Graham “Pete” Harrison ’47, a former member of Swarthmore’s Board of Managers who also served as president of the U.S. Steel and Carnegie Pension Fund for more than 25 years, died June 12, 2018.

As his loved ones wrote: “For nearly 95 years, Graham walked the planet with humility, a strong commitment to social justice, and deep respect for the beauty and fragility of the natural world. He was a man of considerable intellect, emotional constancy, and surprising humor. He was accomplished in his educational and professional pursuits: generous in his contributions to his family and the communities he called home.”

George D’Angelo NV

George D’Angelo NV, an eminent thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon, died Nov. 23, 2014.

Ultimately responsible for mending more than 7,000 patients’ hearts and touching countless lives, George was also devoted to giving back to Erie, Pa., where he served as president of the Philharmonic for six years, founded the D’Angelo Young Artist Competition, and supported the Boys and Girls Club to help create a preschool that bears his name.

Frederick Schofield Jr. NV

Frederick Schofield Jr. NV, a native Philadelphian, died March 13, 2011.

Beloved by his family, Frederick was also a retired real estate broker.

Robert Bair Jr. ’48

Robert Bair Jr. ’48, a Navy veteran who graduated from Penn State with a degree in engineering, died March 14, 2011.

An avid fisherman and golfer, he was also active in the Episcopal Church.

Jane Ann Jones Smith ’48

Jane Ann Jones Smith ’48, a chemist, lecturer, and half of a Quaker matchbox marriage, died May 22, 2018.

Born on the high seas on a ship bound for France, Jane Ann volunteered with the League of Women Voters, was president of the East Williston School District Board of Education, and served as vice president of academic affairs of Friends World College until her retirement.

George Corse Jr. ’48

George Corse Jr. ’48, a Marine veteran born and raised in Swarthmore who served in World War II, died Nov. 27, 2017.

A lifelong devotee of antique cars, George loved to restore them as well as to garden, travel, and spend time with his family.

Edgar Kendall “Ken” Landis ’48

Edgar Kendall “Ken” Landis ’48, a former Swarthmore vice president and board member who passionately championed the performing arts as well as the Scott Arboretum, died Sept. 13, 2018.

Ken spent his early career with Citibank, which led the Landis family to live abroad in Paris, Saudi Arabia, and Beirut. After earning an M.A. from Wesleyan University, Ken joined Swarthmore as its first vice president for alumni, development, and public relations.

“Ken is best remembered for his warmth, sly wit, and persuasive charms,” said President Valerie Smith, “all of which he put to effective use in service to the College.”

Donna Larrabee Rigali ’48

Donna Larrabee Rigali ’48, a Navy veteran and badminton champ at Swarthmore and beyond, died May 30, 2018.

Going for her master’s in library science when her youngest son entered kindergarten, Donna built a 35-year career as a reference librarian and loved traveling with her family, needlework, and playing the piano.

Mary Katherine Yntema ’50

Mary Katherine Yntema ’50, a mathematics professor who taught and traveled around the world, died July 26, 2018.

Dedicated to her Baha’i faith, Mary Kate also completed a pilgrimage to Haifa, Israel, as well as served for several years as a live-in caretaker of the Urbana Baha’i Center.

John Giles ’50

John Giles ’50, who played varsity tennis at Swarthmore, died March 17, 2014.

College ties ran in his family: John’s wife, Marjorie Giles ’50, and daughter, Laura Giles ’75, were also alumni. His classmates memoralized him in his Halcyon as a “history major in honors, with a penchant for renaissance court life … paint-stained jeans and Shakespeare in crum … one of the few who really understand the art of give and take in conversation.”

Gwendolyn Hamilton Stevens ’50

Gwendolyn Hamilton Stevens ’50, a hugely gifted pianist since age 6, died July 30, 2018.

An assistant professor devoted to music education, Gwen organized two still-thriving organizations: Patrons for Young Artists, which sponsors concerts in private homes, and the Howland Chamber Music Circle.

Edwin Ernst ’50

Edwin Ernst ’50, who graduated from Lehigh University, died Oct. 10, 2012.

A decorated Navy veteran, Edwin served in the submarine fleet during World War II and later became the president and owner of a company serving the banking and library industries.

Dorothy Brodie Clarke ’50

Dorothy Brodie Clarke ’50, who taught law, served as a law librarian, and contributed to law school textbooks, died May 17, 2018.

Meeting her husband over crossword puzzles they worked together in class in grad school, Dorothy went on to become a longtime volunteer who gave much of her time and creativity to Church Women United, the Girl Scouts, the Barstow Parents Association, the Swarthmore College Alumni Association, and Rotary Auxiliary of Kansas City.

Alan Ward ’50

Alan Ward ’50, an engineer and veteran of the Korean War, died June 25, 2018.

His son, Andrew Ward, a professor at Swarthmore, wrote of his fond memories “of Alan attending and very much enjoying both his 50th and 60th reunions at Swarthmore. Alan particularly liked attending the special lectures, as, like so many Swatties, he was a lifelong learner.

“Alan was a skilled engineer, avid reader, world traveler, accomplished downhill and cross-country skier, appreciative of the arts, ballet, opera, professional tennis, and movies,” Andrew added. “Above all, he cherished time with his family.”

Margery Davis Romberger ’51

Margery Davis Romberger ’51, who majored in biology at Swarthmore, died July 12, 2018.

Half of a matchbox couple with the late John Romberger ’51, Margery was beloved by her large family.

Edwin Freeman ’51

Edwin Freeman ’51, a dedicated teacher and practitioner of psychiatric medicine, died June 29, 2018.

As his loved ones wrote, Ned’s “life was full of many passions, and he had a special gift for creating community and connecting with people wherever he went. He was especially drawn to people who, like himself, loved to tell stories. He was always a thoughtful listener and faithful adviser to friends and family alike.”

Bruce Graves ’51

Bruce Graves ’51, a scientific glassblower, teacher, and researcher, died June 26, 2015.

An outdoorsman and environmentalist, Bruce was also active in the peace movement.

John Henefer ’52

John Henefer ’52, a family man and devout Christian, died Feb. 23, 2013.

An active volunteer, John also ran a private dental practice for more than 40 years in Wayne, Pa.

Susan Harvey Houston ’53

Susan Harvey Houston ’53, an editor, marketing services manager, and politically active Chicagoan, died May 31, 2018.

A longtime Quaker who hosted a meeting at her house for many years, Susan also served on many local boards and was instrumental in saving the stained-glass windows of the St. James Cathedral at Quiqley Seminary.

Roger Sale ’53

Roger Sale ’53, a charismatic teacher, bibliophile, and author of 13 books, died May 11, 2017.

An expert in multiple genres of literature who taught at the University of Washington, Roger “particularly relished teaching groups to informally act out The Importance of Being Earnest,” according to a tribute his loved ones wrote that also highlighted how he “loved digging in his garden, the smell of rain, and watching sunlight as it moved across the trees.”

Robert Gumnit ’53

Robert Gumnit ’53, an acclaimed epileptologist, public health advocate, and professor, died Oct. 15, 2017.

A leading creator of the model for comprehensive epilepsy care, Robert founded the National Association of Epilepsy Centers in 1987 and served as president for 25 years.

Irving Kennedy Jr. ’53

Irving Kennedy Jr. ’53, an anesthesiologist who ultimately cared for more than 40,000 patients, died June 1, 2018.

Also an accomplished long-distance runner, Irving loved sailing and collecting fine art from around the world.

Eve Anne Johnson Kulberg ’53

Eve Anne Johnson Kulberg ’53, who raised five children and built a career that included stints as a dance camp director, art teacher, and secretary, died March 1, 2018.

Her daughter, Pam, wrote in tribute: “She will be remembered for her stories, dancing, teasing ways, teaching of art, and love of parties. Her ashes will spread at the Noyes School of Rhythm arts retreat center where she spent many summers.”

Dominic Cusano ’53

Dominic Cusano ’53, who rose through the ranks of the Scott Paper Co. to become vice president of human resources, died Nov. 20, 2017.

Passionate about history, golf, art, and his family, Nick was admired by his loved ones for his affectionate nature and generosity.

Andrew March ’53

Andrew March ’53, a Navy veteran, author, and professor of geography, died July 15, 2018.

As his loved ones wrote: “He will be remembered as a devoted humanist who loved nature, language, literature, and ideas. He believed in nonviolence and simplicity of lifestyle and found spiritual comfort in nature, meditation, and the silent gatherings of Quaker meetings.”

Alan Smith ’53

Alan Smith ’53, a distinguished scientist who held seven patents, died Aug. 3, 2018.

Outside of work, he loved to help his sons tinker with cars and home repair, and enjoyed jogging, swimming, and restoring antique radios.

Leighton Whitaker ’54

Leighton Whitaker ’54, a clinical psychologist who also directed student mental health services at three institutions, including Swarthmore’s Worth Health Center, died May 10, 2018.

Lee was also “a lover of biographies, Rachmaninoff, The Ink Spots, sports, storytelling, and barking out car windows at dogs,” his loved ones wrote. “He will be sorely missed as well by a lifetime of patients and colleagues, countless readers, and a world in search of emotional healing.”

Jonathan Fine ’54, H’93

Jonathan Fine ’54, H’93, who helped found the Nobel Peace Prize-winning advocacy organization Physicians for Human Rights, died Jan. 17, 2018.

As the Boston Globe wrote: “Over the past three decades, the organization has investigated and documented the medical effects of war crimes and mass atrocities in more than 60 nations around the world—in its early days often with Dr. Fine leading the way, bearing witness to abuses in places such as Iraq and South Korea.

In their tribute, they also quoted patient Jose Amado, who said, “A man like Jonathan, the U.S. needs millions like him.”

Julien Gendell ’55

Julien Gendell ’55, a chemistry professor and anti-war activist, died June 20, 2018.

One of the organizers of the first national teach-in held in Washington, D.C., to protest the Vietnam War, “Julie” also wrote two chemistry textbooks that are still in use today and served as a family services counselor.

John Clark ’55

John Clark ’55, an influential pastor renowned for living his faith, died May 30, 2018.

After shepherding the Lansdale (Pa.) Reformed Presbyterian Church for 36 years, John retired to Florida with his wife, but continued to serve, teach, and lead, calling his spiritual work “the best job in the world.”

Jane Stevenson Heitman ’55

Jane Stevenson Heitman ’55, a longtime newspaperwoman who spent 21 years as the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s daily advice columnist “Martha Carr,” died May 18, 2018.

The developer of a pilot preschool program that later became the Head Start program in St. Louis, Jane was passionate about volunteering for organizations such as the Girl Scouts, the American Cancer Society, the St. Louis Better Business Bureau, and the Food Crisis Network.

Fred Van Arsdel Jr. ’56

Fred Van Arsdel Jr. ’56, an Army veteran who loved tennis and completed his bachelor’s degree at Ohio Wesleyan, died May 5, 2013.

A veteran of the Army Reserves, Fred flew for Pan Am for several decades, retiring as captain, but counted his proudest moments as the birth of his three grandchildren.

Mary Woelfel Poole ’58

Mary Woelfel Poole ’58, who majored in history at Swarthmore, died July 16, 2018.

As her son wrote in a tribute for her loved ones: “She went out on the day she came in and squeezed in an amazing 82 years in between in which she fell in love with life and with you all.”

Donald Zinn ’58

Donald Zinn ’58, an attorney in the Bay Area of California, died March 2, 2018.

Proud that his younger brother and sister, Karl Zinn ’59 and Sue Zinn Eisinger ’64, followed in his College footsteps, Don came to Swarthmore as a physics major but, after a year abroad in England, changed to political science. Outside of work, he loved spending time with his family, sailing, playing the trumpet, keeping up with the Giants, and listening to Fats Domino.

Ann Carter Bohan ’60

Ann Carter Bohan ’60, a Philadelphia native who lived in Asheville, N.C., died July 3, 2018.

“Ann was a caring, spiritual, and thoughtful woman,” her loved ones wrote. “Her loving and generous spirit will be missed by those who knew her.”

Peter Euben ’61

Peter Euben ’61, a beloved political theory professor and mentor to generations of students, died May 28, 2018.

As his loved ones wrote: “His singular teaching style mixed intense intellectual engagement and passionate commitment to political action with a mischievous sense of humor (bad puns were a specialty) and dramatic flair that made ideas—and their consequences—come alive.”

Robert Hopkins Jr. ’64

Robert Hopkins Jr. ’64, who was deeply loved by his family and friends, died Jan. 12, 2014.

Bob was also a founding member of Harvest Bible Chapel in Traverse City, Mich.

Paul Todd ’64

Paul Todd ’64, a paralegal and volunteer who worked to make wherever he lived a better place, died Feb. 27, 2011.

Paul received a master’s from Western Michigan University and loved softball, skiing, and Anchorage, Alaska, where he became a pillar of the community.

Colin Wordley ’64

Colin Wordley ’64, a programming entrepreneur and “well-known Jedi warrior,” died May 28, 2018.

As his loved ones wrote in their tribute: “He was stereotypically English and was a soccer coach and an avid gardener. He gave up his first love of alcohol to become a 'teetotaler' and was sober for 39 years. He was part of the fellowship of Alcoholic Anonymous in Delco where he refined his Force powers. He was often known to wear his Yoda shirt at local AA meetings and say ‘Do or do not, there is no try.’

“While this may sound pretty silly, there was something simultaneously adorable and profound about it. As one of his loved ones remarked, ‘He was a bit of a rogue, but he was lovable.’ Indeed he stole a number of our hearts before he suddenly absconded after spending his final hours sitting by his garden in the backyard. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

Norman Passmore III ’65

Norman Passmore III ’65, who parlayed his gift for math into a bachelor’s degree from Swarthmore and master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Delaware, died May 9, 2018.

Beloved by his family and friends, Norman also enjoyed running, skiing, and playing the cello.

Stuart Reasoner ’69

Stuart Reasoner ’69, whose post-Swarthmore journey included stints in the military, television production, news reporting, and Seneca Foods, died June 2, 2018.

Fascinated by theology and scripture, Stuart was a devout Catholic as well as an avid reader and conversationalist. He loved opera and animals, giving his pets names from Greek mythology.

Jeffrey Remmel ’70

Jeffrey Remmel ’70, a distinguished professor of mathematics at UC–San Diego, died Sept. 29, 2017.

A tribute the university wrote quoted a fellow professor, Mark Thiemens, who said: “Jeff was a magnificent mathematician and scholar, teacher-mentor, creator of new academic programs and administrator. He did it all. I was fortunate to work with him every day for more than 15 years and see all that he was accomplishing. I was simultaneously astounded and humbled by Jeff.”

Richard Hegner ’71

Richard Hegner ’71, who graduated with honors in political science from Swarthmore and was beloved by family and friends, died May 13, 2016.

Thea Duell ’72

Thea Duell ’72, a regal Renaissance woman, pioneering lawyer, businesswoman, and artist, died June 27, 2018.

“She was an incredible cook, insatiable reader, and had a lifelong passion for traveling the world, especially in Italy, where she lived for a time outside of Florence. It was a time she cherished,” her loved ones wrote. “With a fiery joie de vivre and sense of humor, she was never one to take life too seriously. Even in her dying days, Thea had poise, wit, and a timeless grace, as if from another era. She truly was.”

Lucille Curry Frieder ’75

Lucille Curry Frieder ’75, a brilliant psychologist and devoted mother, died May 15, 2018.

Beloved for her quick wit and sense of humor, “Sam” adored reading fiction and spending time with her family, never missing a celebration or holiday.

Cynthia Jean Kogut ’84

Cynthia Jean Kogut ’84, who founded a one-woman company specializing in editing medical literature, died July 11, 2018.

As her loved ones wrote in a tribute: “An avid folk dancer, Cindy toured with the Mandala folk dance ensemble at festivals in eastern Europe. She was a skilled pilot and flew whenever she could. Friends and family recall her fondness for books and her comment that there were just too many books still to read. Family and friends will miss her spirited conversations, sharp wit, and lefty politics.”