In Memoriam

1950s

Vincent Apruzzese L’53, a prominent labor law attorney, dedicated community leader, and beloved patriarch, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024. He was a long-time resident of Short Hills, NJ, Chatham, MA, and Naples, FL. A graduate of Rutgers University and the Law School at Penn, he was born in Newark, NJ in 1928, the only child of Mildred and John Apruzzese, who immigrated from Puglia, Italy. In 1955, he married the love of his life, Sandy (Marie Yeager), also of Newark. After serving for several years in the Navy’s JAG Corps in Wyoming, they returned to New Jersey where they raised their family. Vin and Sandy were married for 60 years before her death in 2015. Together they instilled in their five children and eight grandchildren the value of a good education, the imperative of hard work, the importance of giving back, and above all, the love of family. Vin was never happier than when he was with his family, whether skiing, playing tennis, cutting a rug, sharing fabulous meals, or gathering with friends who were as close as family. And there was no place he cherished more than the family home in Chatham, Cape Cod, the site of elongated dinners, intimate gatherings, large parties, tennis tournaments, spontaneous lawn games, and more magical sunsets than one can count. Other than his questionable boating skills and errant golf shots, he excelled at everything he put his mind to. Vincent distinguished himself in the field of labor law, which he practiced for more than fifty years. He founded the law firm of Apruzzese, McDermott, Mastro & Murphy in 1965. During his career, he served as President of the New Jersey Bar Association, Chair of the Labor and Employment Law Section and member of the Governors Board of the American Bar Association, and as a member of the International Labor Law Society. He was a principal witness for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Labor Committee before committees of Congress and successfully argued three cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. Generous beyond measure, Vin was always the first to help in a crisis, to advise a young person in need of guidance, to step up whenever leadership was needed, and modeled for his children the joy of building life-long friendships. An entertainer at heart, he played a mean piano, was famous for his litany of jokes with impeccable delivery and his ringing laughter will be sorely missed. He was pre-deceased by his wife, Sandy (2015), and daughter, Barbara Yeager (2019), and survived by his children John Apruzzese (Debra) of Morristown, NJ; Don Apruzzese (Michele) of Harwich, MA; Lynn Tetrault of Boston, MA; and Katherine Sherbrooke (Patrick) of Cohasset, MA; his grandchildren Dana Pierce (Greg), Ali Butkowski (Brad), Tom Apruzzese (Aubrey), David Apruzzese, Ross Tetrault, Ryan Tetrault, Henry Sherbrooke, George Sherbrooke; and his great-grandson James Butkowski.

David Roland L’53, passed away on April 26, 2024, at his residence. He was the husband of Shirley (Campbell) Roland. They married on January 28, 1961, and celebrated their 63rd anniversary in 2024. Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of Dr. Daniel L. and Eva (Hafer) Roland. David attended Reading High School, graduating in 1945. After high school, David made the commitment to his country and joined the Navy until 1947. He went on to attend Albright College and the Law School at Penn. He practiced as a lawyer in Reading until his retirement in 1999. David was a member of Community Evangelical Church where he served in various leadership and teaching positions over the years. He served the Hope Rescue Mission of Reading as counsel and as a board member for 57 years. He enjoyed going for runs, sailing, taking trips to Ocean City, NJ with his family and working around his property in Oley. David will be remembered for his dedication and service to the Lord and his love of family. In addition to his wife, Shirley, those left to treasure David’s memory are his children: David C. Roland (Esther), and Elizabeth A. Roland (Robert Bowdish); his grandchildren: Aaron D. Roland, Luke D. Eshbach, Kyle R. Eshbach, Hannah E. Roland, Leah E. Eshbach, and Adam D. Roland; and his great grandchildren: Kilee R. Eshbach, Chase R. Eshbach, and Elena N. Roland. David was preceded in death by his brothers: Dr. John Roland and Dr. Frederick Roland.

Jerome Balka L’54, passed away on October 10, 2024, at home, surrounded by his family. A graduate of Central High School, Temple University, and the Law School at Penn, he represented the 3,000 members of United Vendors of Philadelphia in the 1980s and ’90s during contentious legal negotiations with city officials and other local business interests. His father and uncle sold fruit from a street cart when they first arrived in South Philadelphia from Russia, and Balka had a soft spot for vendors who were chasing their own rags-to-riches story. “He felt lucky to have benefited from the American dream,” said his daughter Christie. He is survived by his wife Arleen (Sissy); sister Ruth; children: Christie, Ellen and Richard, their spouses; and grandchildren.

The Hon. G. Eynon, J.S.C. (Ret.) passed away November 16, 2024, at the age of 95. Judge Eynon graduated from Muhlenberg College and the Law School at Penn. He began his law career at Archer & Greiner, there after forming a firm with the Honorable George Farrell, J.S.C. and Sidney McCord. He served as a Municipal Court Judge for many years before being sworn in on the Camden County bench, starting on the County Court and then the Superior Court (including serving as Criminal Presiding Judge). He served for 18 years until his retirement in 1996 and then served on recall for an additional 13 years. To Judge Eynon, there was no bigger honor than being appointed to the bench, and no better job. He enjoyed fishing and boating in his younger years on Lake Winnipesauke and the Jersey shore, but was really an avid golfer, spending most Saturday mornings on the course at Tavistock Country Club with a devoted golfing group. He most enjoyed spending time with friends and family, particularly with his granddaughters and great-grandsons at holidays and in the Outer Banks. He was predeceased by his loving wife of nearly 65 years, Carol I. Eynon, and is remembered as the loving father of the Honorable Linda W. Eynon, P.J.F.P. and Nancy K. Eynon Roper (Michael); devoted Grandfather of Jessica Bander (Austen) and Abigail Asbell (John); Beloved great grandfather of John Michael Bander, Walker David Bander and Isaac Crawford Bander; step-great grandfather to Breanne Asbell, Scott Asbell and Luke Asbell; dear brother/sister-in-law of H. Korb and Josette Eynon and brother-in-law of Richard Webb Irwin; and uncle to Matthew Eynon (Michelle), Stephanie Eynon and his great niece and nephew, Samantha and Tayler Eynon.

John J. Bond L’55 passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Camden, NJ. John was born on April 7, 1927 to the late Helen and Charles P. Bond in Camden, NJ. A gifted student and outstanding athlete in track and field, he was a graduate of the Law School at Penn and the University of Iowa Department of Statistics and Actuarial science Program. He proudly served his country in the Army during WWII. John loved to travel and enjoyed anything related to the outdoors. He skied almost every winter in Europe, enjoyed the beach and spent many summers in Spring Lake, NJ and in later years enjoyed traveling to the Caribbean with his late father. John was a devout Catholic. Known for his outgoing nature and interest in others, John was always ready to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He had a unique way of making each person feel special. Above all, he cherished his family who brought him immense joy and purpose. John had two brothers, the late Charles P. Bond (Delores) and is survived by his loving brother Edward Richard (Mary) of Cherry Hill, NJ. He had 10 nieces and nephews and 19 great nieces and nephews who all adored him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his entire family.

William Shea W’52, L’55 died peacefully on July 12, 2024. He was born on July 2, 1930, in Springfield, MA, the son of the late Charles Edward Shea and Beatrice Milmore Shea. He moved with his family to Meriden, CT, in 1936, where he resided until 2018. He graduated from Meriden High School, earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from the Wharton School of Commerce at the University of Pennsylvania, and his Juris Doctor degree from the Law School at Penn. In 1955, Bill’s legal career was launched when he joined the Meriden law practice of Francis O’Brien, Joseph Noonan, George Kilroy, and William Comiskey, and he practiced law in Meriden for over 60 years. Bill was a natural politician who quickly found his calling. At 28, he was elected to the Connecticut State Legislature and became its youngest member in history. He served four terms and rose to the rank of Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. In 1963, he was elected Mayor of the City of Meriden, serving from 1964 to 1968. Meriden changed for the better because of his hard work and deep engagement, which continued for many decades. As Mayor, he was inspired by the Civil Rights movement, and, in 1966, created the first Human Rights Director position to ensure that all citizens had equal access to jobs, fair housing, and political representation. As part of the Urban Renewal and Redevelopment Plan, his administration also completed several highway projects, including Route 691, making Meriden a hub of a highway system covering the state. In 2015, he was inducted into the Meriden Hall of Fame to commemorate his contributions to the city. The ripple effect of his leadership was far-reaching. When he was out with his children and grandchildren in Meriden, it was common for people to approach him and talk about the ways he had personally helped them. Bill was much more than his list of accomplishments. His life and legacy were marked by joy, service, devotion, creativity, deep friendships, and a quest for adventure-all of which he instilled in his children and grandchildren. A lifelong learner himself, he believed in the power of education and made this a cornerstone family value. He and his wife Janice were true partners and shared their deep commitment to family, education, and faith. The second youngest of five, he was predeceased by his sisters, Marie Conklin, Eileen Trainor, Claire Garvey, and Betty Bremer Ferry, as well as his wife of 60 years, Janice Weigand Shea. He is survived by his children, Mary Shea, William Shea Jr., Ellen Mendelson, Kathleen Shea Smith, Christine Shea, and Margo Shea; children-in-law, Yuri Dombrovsky, Suzanne Welder Shea, Allen Mendelson, and Matthew Barlow; and his grandchildren, Emily Dombrovskaya, Haley Shea, Charlie Shea, Avery Smith, Rachel Mathison (wife of Avery Smith), and Ella Smith.

Charles Plotnick L’56 passed away December 2, 2024. Beloved husband of Diane (nee Needle); loving father of Steven Plotnick (Susan) and Amy Brody (Dr. Joshua); adoring grandfather of Lisa (Jeffrey), Benjamin (Jane-Randolph), Lauren (John), Gregory (Jillian), and Ian; devoted great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren.

Alan Miles Ruben C’53, G’56, L’56 died on February 21, 2024, and his wife, Betty Willis Ruben died on April 28, 2024, leave behind Alan’s maternal cousins, Robert Sinclair and Gillian Branston, Jeffrey Forrest, John Goodwin, their families, and the Leanse family all of the United Kingdom, and Richard Forrest who resides in Sweden. Betty and Alan leave memories for people whose lives they have touched over almost a century. Coming from small families of very different backgrounds, they built extended families for themselves through a network of friends, colleagues, students, and others. They mentored many young people both here and in China to become attorneys who loved the law as they did and who wanted to change the world through advocacy, civil rights, and principles of justice, fairness, and equity. But more than this, they demonstrated to all of us the strength of love and commitment through 8 years of courtship and 58 years of marriage that led Betty Willis to convert to Judaism in the footsteps of the biblical figure Ruth so that she and Alan could join hands as the blessings of marriage prayers were uttered, “let there soon be heard…the voice of the loving couple, the sound of their jubilance…one with the other.” Through the lean years of the beginning of their marriage, they enjoyed their first apartment in Connecticut and spent weekends hunting for treasures in auctions, second-hand and antique stores from which they reveled in finding beautiful objects to fill their new home. Through the middle years that saw the rise of their individual careers and prosperity, they moved to Cleveland, OH, purchasing a historic residence, “The Retreat,” a home overlooking Lake Erie, a home from which they never wanted to move. There they gardened, housed their collection of art and furnishings that they gleaned from all over the world. Through the invigorating years of their youth and into the challenging days of failing health, they maintained their loving laughter, their commitment to one another, and their unbreakable bond that gave life to their wedding vows, “I am my beloved, and my beloved is mine.” Their public and storied careers are as important as their private love and devotion.

Born in 1931, Alan Miles Ruben began his storied career began after he received his Bachelor of Arts in 1953, his Master of Arts in 1956, and his Juris Doctor of Arts in 1957. A Phi Beta Kappa and a Fulbright and Guggenheim Scholar, Alan was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1957, after which he opened his own law practice and worked as a law clerk for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, serving as a Deputy Attorney General for the Commonwealth. Moving to Cleveland, Ohio in 1969, to work for the Lubrizol Corporation, Alan found his calling as a law professor and joined the faculty of Cleveland-Marshall College of Law at Cleveland State University in 1970, until his retirement 33 years later, at which time he became a professor emeritus, and continued serving on the National Labor Arbitration Panels of the American Arbitration Association, and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. Beyond his legal career, Alan had many skills and interests. He was inducted to the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame in 1976 for his service as captain of the 1971 U.S. Pan American Fencing Team and as captain for the 1972 U.S. Olympic Fencing Team. Alan and Betty’s love for opera, theater, and classical music lasted a lifetime. Classical music and opera could be heard softly emanating from their rooms. To the end, Alan called for HB, his honey bear, and she always was there by his side to hold his hand, for they were the love of each other’s lives.

The Hon. Robert Young L’56 passed away January 25, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Carolyn E. (nee Stephen) Young, children, Donald S. Young, Esq., wife Debra; David R. Young; William J. Young, all of Macungie, PA; Paul R. Young, wife, Kelly, of Virginia Beach, VA; and Nancy E. Kline, husband, James, of Edgewater, MD. He was Granddad to 11 grandchildren and Great-Granddad to 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, May Swagert, of California. Bob was a graduate of Westtown Friends School, Haverford College, and the Law School at Penn. He began his practice of law in 1956 and was joined by his son, Donald in 1977. He was a president of the Lehigh County Bar Association in 1981, solicitor at varying times for the Borough of Macungie, Upper Milford Township, Lehigh County Vo-Tech School and Lehigh County Community College. He was nominated by Governor Thornberg to fill a vacancy on the Lehigh County Bench in 1984 and was then elected to a full 10-year term in 1985 where although he served in all divisions, particularly enjoyed being the Administrative Judge of the Orphans Court though his term. He retired in 1995. Throughout his career he served on many community committees, including Chair of Lehigh County Guardianship Support Agency, Chair of East Penn Industrial Development Committee, East Penn School Board, the Boy Scouts as a Scout Master; member of the Minsi Trail Council and recipient of the “Silver Beaver Award.” Bob enjoyed working with and supporting the good people of Macungie where he was actively involved with the Macungie Memorial Park Association serving as volunteer Board Member and President, Macungie Institute Association as a Founding Board Member, creator of the Macungie Flower Park, Das Awkscht Fescht Chairman, and the Kalmbach Memorial Park serving as Trustee. In his free time he was a private pilot for 30 years, enjoyed making Punkin Chunkin machines, converting a gas powered pick-up to battery power, organizing many canoe trips with friends and family, and continually acting as the family entertainment chairman.

Robert J. Levy L’57, age 93, of Aventura, Florida, long-time resident of Minneapolis, accomplished legal scholar, decorated war veteran, and adored husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away on August 16, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Bob was a revered law professor at the University of Minnesota Law School for over 40 years. Holding numerous chairs and honors, he taught thousands of students who went on to illustrious legal careers. Beginning his career in antitrust, he eventually became an internationally acclaimed scholar in family law, authoring the Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act which was adopted in nearly every state. He gave prominent lectures all over the world, and regularly trained judges on reforms in criminal sentencing. He cared deeply about the Minneapolis Jewish community and served on various boards and committees including serving as President of the Minneapolis Jewish Family and Children’s Service. Loving husband to his cherished wife, Bobbie, his partner for over 63 years, he passed on the day that would have been their 65th wedding anniversary. Preceded in death by his sister, Norma L. Shapiro, Bob is survived by children, Valerie (Chuck) Rennert, Jonathan (Beth Virnig) Levy, Joshua (Nicole) Levy; grandchildren, Jenna Rennert (Aubrey Levy), Emily Rennert Wein (Simon Wein), Jacob Levy (Jacqueline Brown), Zachary Levy, Alexandra Levy, Vanessa Levy; great grandchildren, Milo and Rafi Levy, and many nephews, nieces and friends.

Joe Beller L’59, a devoted Philadelphian and esteemed zoning lawyer, passed away on January 13, 2024, at 89. Known for his sharp sense of humor and ability to befriend everyone he met, Beller’s warmth and wit were hallmarks of his personality. As a leading figure in Philadelphia’s land use bar, Joe earned numerous accolades for his professional achievements, including his proudest recent accomplishment at age 87—successfully negotiating the relocation of the Atwater Kent Philadelphia History Museum’s content to Drexel University, preserving its legacy. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Beller (née Naden) DH’58; his daughters Joy Beller Shore and Alison Beller-Grossman; his son-in-law Jimmy Grossman; and his cherished granddaughters, Jacqueline, Emily, Ava, and Sarah.

William Congreve III W’53, L’59 died in his sleep on May 2, 2024, with his loving wife of over 70 years, Jean, by his side. A practicing attorney for many years, he lived a full life. Bill enjoyed tinkering in the garage, finding treasures at garage sales and thrift shops, and observing nature and wildlife around him, especially toads and salamanders. Bill had many bird feeders to sustain his feathered friends and enjoyed the sounds of wind chimes. Bill was a USAF veteran and a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School and Law School. In addition to Jean, Bill is survived by four children, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

George “Skip” Corson, Jr. L’59, 88, of Blue Bell, PA died on May 21, 2024, at Meadowood’s Holly House of complications from leukemia. Born in Plymouth Meeting, PA, he was the only son of the Honorable George C. Corson, Sr. and Jane Webb Corson. He graduated from William Penn Charter School in 1952, from Amherst College in 1956, with a major in German and a minor in drama, and from the Law School at Penn in 1959. He married Elizabeth (“Betsy”) Strayer in 1962 (she passed away in 2006), and is survived by their four children, Tacy, Ben, Julia and Nick, and by his five grandchildren Mikko, Clare, Will, Lily and Calder and his later life partner, Penny Brodie, and their dog, Bear. Skip practiced law in Norristown for 31 years and was active in his community as a volunteer and board member. He served on various committees of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends, was a long-standing member of the William Penn Charter School Board of Overseers and later Trustee emeritus, was a former director of Jeanes Hospital (now Anna T. Jeanes Foundation), a former school board member of Upper Dublin Township, and an active volunteer and advisory council member of Wissahickon Trails (formerly Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association), from whom he received a Lifetime Achievement Award. A lover of music, he was also very involved with the Young Musicians Musicales. Skip is known to many in the community for his engaging personality and sense of humor. He enjoyed tennis, sailing, hiking and spending time at Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, in Maine, and on the Chesapeake Bay.

John Francis L’59, a New Jersey trial attorney, died at his home in Mendham on September 16, 2024, 10 days before his 90th birthday. John was born in Orange on September 26, 1934, to John J. Francis and Penelope Connolly Francis. He grew up in South Orange and graduated from Columbia High School. He received a BA from Williams College (1956), where he majored in history, played lacrosse, and was a member of the DKE fraternity. He earned his JD from the Law School at Penn in 1959. John began his legal career by clerking for his father, who then was associate justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court. Next, John served as Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey and later as Assistant Essex County Prosecutor. For over 40 years, John practiced law at Shanley and Fisher (now Faegre Drinker Biddle and Reath) in Newark and later Florham Park, where he became a consummate civil litigator, concentrating in a wide variety of cases including complicated medical malpractice actions. His practice expanded and evolved over the years to primarily business and commercial litigation. John’s reputation as a superb trial attorney was recognized when he became Shanley and Fisher’s first attorney to be designated a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, an honor restricted to one percent of all lawyers in each state. John had several landmark cases which have been of precedential value in New Jersey. Foremost among these are cases refining New Jersey’s “entire controversy” doctrine and discovery doctrine in statute of limitation cases. John believed in contributing community service and, while maintaining a full-time practice, he served as President (Mayor) of the Village of South Orange in the 1970s; as a Trustee and ultimately Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Hospital Center at Orange; and as a Commissioner for the State Commission of Investigation from 1979 to 1982, investigating organized crime in New Jersey. John also served as the Vice-Chair of the Supreme Court Committee on Bar Admissions, Chairman of the Supreme Court Committee on Character, and Chairman of the Supreme Court Committee on Ethics (Essex County). Despite his demanding career pursuits, John always found time for his three children, Carey, John (III), and Sean. While raising his young family in South Orange, he was well known to gather up the children from his Glenside Road neighborhood and take them to the local Little League baseball fields to hit them countless flyballs and grounders with his prized Fungo bat. He loved playing doubles with his children and nephews on the grass courts of the Orange Lawn Tennis Club. For a time, he coached his son Sean’s basketball team. Later in life, he developed a passion for golf, spending countless rounds on the courses of Northern New Jersey and making a semiannual golf pilgrimage to Carlsbad, CA, where he would play golf every day. John was an avid reader and a history buff. In his retirement, he took numerous classes at Rutgers University, Drew University, and New York University. He loved visiting Civil War battlefields and participating in the North Jersey Civil War Round Table. John was predeceased by his sister, Cynthia F. Webber, and his brother, Hugh P. Francis. He is survived by his former wife, Mary Louise Francis, his three children, Carey, John (III), and Sean Francis, and his niece and nephews.

Howard Girsh W’56 L’59, age 90, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024. He was married to Joann Bogurz Girsh Ed’58.

Bernard “Bernie” Gross L’59 passed away on September 21, 2024. Bernie was an attorney, former State Representative, and a graduate of Central High, Wharton School, and the Law School at Penn. Bernie was an avid believer in democracy, a trailblazer in the legal profession creating precedent for venue and championing legislative changes in the law. He is survived by wife, Harriet Segal Gross, daughter Deborah (Stuart Kurtz); Susan (Samuel Gordon); David and Sharon (the late Elliott Herman); grandchildren Adam, Emily (Jeffrey Horowitz) and Zachary, Rachael, Sophie, Alyssa and Alana.

Louis M. Tarasi, Jr. L’59, a civil trial attorney from Sewickley, PA, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2023, at 92. He was born Sept. 9, 1931, in Harmarville, to Ruth Records Tarasi and Louis Michael Tarasi Sr. He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School and Miami University of Ohio, which he attended on a track scholarship. In 1954, he married the love of his life, Patsy Ruth Finley. He then enlisted in the Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Japan. Nine months later, on April 1, 1955, he made headline news in the local paper, when he “beat the stork” by returning home for the birth of his first daughter, Susan. After completing his military service, he obtained his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania on a scholarship. While in law school, he worked three jobs and welcomed his first son, Louis Michael III. After returning to Pittsburgh, he began what would become a successful national legal career. He received recognition in The Best Lawyers in America and served as president of both the Pennsylvania and Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Associations. He was a Certified Civil Trial Attorney and was a member of the Academy of Trial Lawyers and the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He was later admitted into the prestigious International Barristers Society and the American Board of Trial Advocates. Lou was a gifted litigator, championing the voiceless in the fields of class action, personal injury, medical malpractice and antitrust law. A devout Catholic, he served in many capacities in his church. Of all his awards, he felt most honored to receive the Saint Thomas More Award, which recognizes outstanding Catholic lawyers. He witnessed his faith to all who knew him through prayer, generosity of spirit, and attending Mass every Sunday. All aspects of his life were woven with his high moral character and his faith in God. Lou and Patsy moved to Sewickley in 1972. He was the first Democrat elected to the Sewickley Borough Council. He also founded the Sewickley 5K race through the YMCA. Lou is survived by his wife, Patsy, whom he showed an unwavering devotion to throughout their marriage; June 19, 2024, would have been their 70th anniversary. They traveled the world together and saved Thursdays for date night. He is also survived by his six children, of whom he was very proud, each with their own talents: Susan Sherbine (Jay), Michael, Beth Tarasi Sinatra (Tony), Brian C’85, Tricia Mantelmacher (David) and Matthew (Chris Brick). Beth, inspired by her father, became a lawyer and partner in the law firm, Tarasi & Tarasi. Lou’s surviving grandchildren are Sara, Teddy, Ben, Emma, Eliza, and Aidan, and great-granddaughter, Riley. He was close and lovingly involved in the lives of each and took pride in their accomplishments. He encouraged each one of them to become the best they could be and to stay close to their faith and family. Lou was preceded in death by his parents and brother, William (“Skippy”). Lou greeted everyone with a smile, a joke, and kind words. He was well known for his humor, countless personal stories, vast knowledge of history and literature, and interest in all things sports. Lou’s generosity and philanthropy benefitted numerous organizations and touched many individuals. He was the eternal optimist; Regardless of the situation, his glass was half full and never half empty. His optimism, strength, and endless love will never be forgotten.

1960s

John was the beloved husband of the late Colette Dugan for 36 years. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Helen Dugan. John is survived by his daughters, Jina Adams and Julie Mair (Michael); grandchildren, Gennifer, William, Amina, Max, Mei-Lin, and Mei-Ying; stepchildren Tricia Marchbanks (Scott), Christopher Cox (Candace), and Greg Cox; step-grandchildren, Ryan (Thuy), Lyndsay (Brett), Alyssa, Austin, Alexandra; and step-great-grandchildren, Brooklynn and Logan.

Vernon Stanton, Jr. L’60 died on June 14, 2024, in Jupiter, FL. Vern was born on July 17, 1933, in Philadelphia. As a child, he attended St. Peter’s Choir School, where he not only sang, but also rang the bells in the church’s tower. He graduated as valedictorian from Lower Merion High School in 1951. Vern earned a BA in History from Princeton University, and an LLB from the Law School at Penn. He served in the U.S. Navy for two years between college and law school. In 1955, Vern married his high school sweetheart, Betsy Borst. The couple lived in Coronado, CA while Vern was in the Navy, and returned to the suburbs of Philadelphia when Vern entered law school in 1957. After graduating from Penn in 1960, Vern joined Drinker, Biddle & Reath in Philadelphia, and specialized in corporate and securities law. He spent the entirety of his career with the firm. He rose to partner and also served as managing partner before retiring early in 2000. Vern was a devoted outdoorsman who took numerous trips with family and friends, from backpacking in the Copper Canyon of Mexico to canoeing the wilderness of the Chochocouane River in Ontario, Canada. He was always ready with trail recommendations for fellow hiking enthusiasts. Together, he and Betsy founded the Port Clinton to Eckville Stroll, a day hike with friends that ran annually for more than 30 years. Whitewater canoeing and biking were also passions for Vern, as was traveling the continent in pursuit of more birds to add to his Life List. An avid reader and lifelong autodidact, Vern loved exploring new topics, discovering new authors, and sharing book recommendations—or gifts of books—with his network. He regularly mailed news clippings that he found interesting or amusing to family and friends. Late in his life, this habit sparked the creation of the Good News Paper, a semi-regular publication of Vern’s that featured offbeat news items, favorite obituaries, photos of animals, and other tidbits that embodied his quirky sense of humor. Although Vern loved books and ideas, he was also incredibly handy. He was well versed in car repair, woodworking, electrical wiring, plumbing, and more. If he couldn’t fix something the conventional way, he would rig something up—making a new exhaust pipe for the family’s VW Bus with a piece of discarded gutter, for example. He is survived by three of his four children, Kathryn, Janet, Roger (Kristin), and daughter-in-law Lisa Baum Stanton. Vern had nine grandchildren: Aly and Jamie (Jeff); Justine, Bridget, and Tess (Janet); and Gray, Lily, Penn, and Katrina (Roger). He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Theodore Rodgers of Seattle Washington, as well as many nieces and nephews. Vernon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Betsy; his son, Jeffrey; and his parents, Emma and Vernon Stanton, Sr.

Charles “Chuck” Weisman GL’60 passed away on September 17, 2024. He attended Rollins College in Florida, then University of Pennsylvania for his law degrees (LLB and LLM), but his true calling was not as an attorney but rather hitting tennis balls and riding horses. He will be remembered by his family and friends for his kindness, gentle way, and sense of humor (including toilet jokes). Beloved husband of Phyllis (nee Barnett); loving father of Gilbert (Alane Becket) Weisman and Cynthia Weisman; cherished grandfather of Jaden, Jenna and Owen; brother of the late Maryellen Shafer.

William “Bill” Noble, Jr. L’61, 91, of Island Heights, NJ, writer, author, educator, storyteller, lover, husband, father, adventurer and sage, died peacefully in his sleep on January 8, 2024. Bill was born in New York City on January 25, 1932, to Ethel and William Noble. Although he grew up in Pelham, NY, William went on to live much of his adult life in Pennsylvania and Vermont before permanently moving to Island Heights, NJ. After graduating from the Hotchkiss School, he earned a BA in history at Lehigh University. William had an adventurous career path, from serving three years in the U.S. Coast Guard aboard the USGS Cactus and the USCGC Castle Rock, an oceanic research vessel chasing storms, to earning a doctorate in judicial law from the University of Pennsylvania. William went on to practice law and run the Model Cities Program in Lancaster, PA. After many successful ventures in these different career fields, William found his true calling in writing. Bill and his second wife, June, worked on several unique writing projects. They traveled extensively together, writing their way through South America and Europe. In Norway, the pair investigated the wartime activities of Nazi collaborator Vidkun Quisling for the Norwegian Justice Ministry. They also authored several books together, starting with The Custody Trap and followed by The Psychiatric Fix, How to Live With Other People’s Children, The Private Me, and Steal This Plot. William also co-authored five books with his wife and ballet director Angela Whitehill, including The Parents Book of Ballet and The Dancer’s Book of Ballet. In 1991, Bookbanning in America: Who Bans Books? And Why was published. As William was an activist and staunch supporter of free speech, this was one of his most impassioned projects. In addition to writing many more books, articles and other published works, William also joined the staff of the Community College of Vermont. Here he taught creative writing and creative nonfiction for 37 years. He was an early practitioner of online education, developing innovative creative-writing curricula. William’s writings and teachings broached a variety of subjects, including politics, history, the art of writing, golf and restaurant reviews. He was named a Vermont Scholar for the Vermont Council on the Arts and was close to completing his memoir at the time of his passing. He is survived by his wife, Angela Whitehill; sons, William III and John; daughter-in-law, Leslie Noble; much-loved cousins Judy Ogden and son David; and stepchildren Lynn Feiner, James Whitehill and Pamela Harnish. William is also survived by his granddaughters, Madeline, Nataleigh and Veronique, and many loving step-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his sister, Marsha Blythe; first wife, Madeline Carman Noble; second wife, June Brogger Noble; and stepdaughter Leigh Shields Dudnick.

William immersed himself in books, baseball, horses and good conversation. He was the person others knew they could go to, and he always delivered. Above all else, William loved his family. He was happiest when talking about the accomplishments of the sons and granddaughters of whom he was endlessly proud and the love and laughter he shared with his wife Angela.

Paul Auerbach W’58, G’59, L’62 Beloved husband of Judy (née Finkelstein). Devoted father of Kimberly Klein, Kevin (Esther) Auerbach and Jennifer (Michael) Willner. Proud grandfather of Max, Melanie, Sam, Zachary, Jared, Ethan, Talia and Asher.

Birchard “Birch” Clothier L’63 died on June 29, 2024, at the age of 87. He’d want memorial donations made to Beaumont RSI/ Employee Scholarship Fund.

Joanne (Redmond) Denworth L’63 passed away on March 1, 2024, at the age of 85, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was 85. Before Alzheimer’s struck her more than 10 years ago, Joanne was known as one of Pennsylvania’s leading environmentalists. A graduate of Vassar College (’60) and one of only a handful of women in her class at the Law School at Penn (’63), she built a pioneering career as a land use and environmental lawyer. She was the kind of environmentalist who was passionate but practical, excelling at both innovative ideas and real-world solutions. Her goal was to bring people together and get them talking and collaborating, and she succeeded. Beginning in 1986, Joanne served for 12 years as President and Executive Director of the non-profit Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), transforming it from a small office in Philadelphia to a vibrant entity with five offices across the state, 28 employees and six times the budget. Then she founded and led 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania, a statewide alliance of more than 200 organizations. In both jobs, she worked to revitalize cities and towns, reform land use law, enhance urban environments and protect open spaces. In 2003, she was appointed by Governor Ed Rendell as Senior Policy Manager in the Governor’s Policy Office. She was the Governor’s chief liaison with agencies on policies and programs related to land use, community and economic development, environmental protection, transportation and infrastructure, agriculture, historic preservation and parks and recreation. She (grudgingly) retired in her early 70s. Joanne brought people together in her personal life, too. She was the gravitational center around which people gathered. Always, she was “home” for her sisters after their mother died when they were children. Then she created warm, welcoming homes in Philadelphia’s Society Hill and on Maryland’s Eastern Shore where her family and enormous group of friends loved to congregate. So many people will remember drinking wine under the trees at Compton at cocktail hour or convivial conversation around a delicious meal at the dinner table. Everything Joanne did benefited from her sharp intelligence and determined engagement. She was a fierce competitor on the tennis court, and a willing adventurer with family and friends. She gamely took up Ray’s passion for sailing and went to sea for long stretches of time, most notably in 1979, when they took Lydia and Michael (then 12) on a six-month trip across the Atlantic and through Europe. She could identify the constellations in the sky, the birds in the trees, and the flowers in any garden. Civic-minded and a sought-after board member throughout her life, Joanne headed the Society Hill Civic Association in its earliest days and spent 20 years on the board of managers of Pennsylvania Hospital. She also served on the boards of the William Penn Foundation, the PA Audubon Society, Women’s Way, and many other organizations. She received too many honors and awards to list but a few of the highlights were Woman of Distinction from The Philadelphia Business Journal, Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania (awarded by Gov. Tom Ridge), The Good Samaritan Award from Pennsylvania Hospital, The Learned Hand Award for Community Service from the American Jewish Committee (given to her and Ray jointly), and leadership awards from the Pennsylvania Bar Association and Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. For the last ten years of her life, Joanne was lovingly cared for by the remarkable Kelly Wiley, who made everything better. There were also many home health aides who helped, but Joanne Smith stands out for her dedication and heart. Every family should be so fortunate. She leaves her beloved twins, Lydia and Michael, their spouses, Mark Justh and Christin Bassett, her five grandsons, Jacob, Matthew, Alex, Ben, and Jamie, her sisters, Nancy Redmond and Margaret (Peggy) Redmond and their families, and her long-time partner, John Bower. She was preceded in death by her husband of 37 years, Ray Denworth, Jr. and is survived by her beloved twins, Lydia (Mark Justh) and Michael (Christin Bassett); her five grandsons, Jacob, Matthew, Alex, Ben, and Jamie, her sisters, Nancy and Margaret (Peggy) Redmond, and her longtime partner, John Bower.

John Flackett GL’63, Professor Emeritus and former Associate Dean of Boston College Law School, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, surrounded by his loving family, anchored by his devoted wife of twenty-six years, Joanne. Born on October 27, 1935, in Penkhull, Staffordshire, England, John grew up during World War II, an experience that profoundly shaped his compassion for those on society’s fringes. His professional life was dedicated to championing the underrepresented, whether by sleeping in prisons in solidarity with inmates or advocating for civil rights in the American South. John was educated at St. John’s College, Cambridge University, and came to the United States on a Fulbright Scholarship to study law at the University of Pennsylvania, where he met his first wife, Gail. Together, they raised their children Jennifer, Antony, and their adopted daughter, Rachel. John’s academic career spanned several institutions, including the University of British Columbia, the University of Ontario, and the University of Florida, before settling at Boston College. His tenure there was marked by dedication to student advocacy and the co-piloting of the “International and Comparative Law Program” with King’s College, London. Beyond his professional achievements, John had a zest for life, deepened by his marriage to Joanne. Together, they traveled, explored nature, and shared a love for the outdoors. John was an avid birdwatcher, tennis enthusiast, and gifted cook. His greatest joy, however, was his family. John is survived by his wife, Joanne; his children Jennifer, Antony, Rachel, and Charles; his first wife, Gail; his son-in-law, Mark; his daughters-in-law, Sabrina and Kerrilyn; and his five grandchildren, Franny, Finn, Dashiell, Clio, and Ronan.

Gerald M. Levin L’63 passed away on March 13, 2024, at the age of 84. He was a former CEO of Time Warner and a towering figure in the media industry. Once regarded as one of the most powerful media executives in the nation. After stepping away from the public eye, Levin reemerged in California, where he embraced a new path focused on wellness. Alongside his wife, Laurie Perlman Levin, he founded Moonview Sanctuary, a holistic treatment center dedicated to personal growth and healing.

Sidney Masri L’63 passed away on June 30, 2024, at the age of 85 in Falls Church, VA. Born on August 26, 1938, in Baghdad, Iraq, Sidney achieved a distinguished educational background, earning a degree from Princeton University followed by a JD from the University of Pennsylvania. Sidney dedicated 20 years of his career to NASA as an attorney, where he managed contracts for the Space Shuttle. He left the government to work as general counsel at Western Union, GTE, and he concluded his career at MAMSI/UNITED Healthcare, leaving a legacy of dedication and excellence in his field, as well as many dear friends and colleagues. Beyond his professional life, Sidney was passionate about the outdoors. He was a master gardener, taking pride in his exquisite garden at Chandler Street. His love for nature extended to hiking, biking and skiing, activities that he enjoyed immensely and shared with friends and family. Sidney is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia; his son, David Masri and his wife Sally, and their sons, Jack and Luke; his daughter, Rebecca, her husband Joe, and their children, Jacob and Riley; and his brothers, Norman and Raymond Masri. Sidney’s life and achievements will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Thomas Quay L’63 died peacefully at his home in Chester Springs, PA on June 13th, 2024. He was 90 years old. By his side was his wife and best friend of 34 years, Winnifred Cutler, and their cherished puggle, Sybil. Tom was born on April 3,1934 to Esther Thomas and Emery Quay in Lakewood, OH where he spent his childhood with both parents and his beloved older sister, Marilyn. He thrived in sports and school and served campers in the YMCA. He graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University in its Special Program in the Humanities in1956, where he subsequently served as Class President, Yearbook Editor, and Fund raiser. After Princeton he trained as a Naval Officer, to serve for 3 years on an aircraft carrier as its Legal Officer in foreign waters before entering the Reserves. Next, he earned his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Tom practiced law his entire life, serving for 25 years at Rorer US, eventually as its as General Counsel. As well as 34 years as the Athena Institute for Women’s Wellness General Counsel. He declared himself a feminist. His friends and family will remember and miss the way he embraced every day with energetic gratitude, competitive spirit, strong voice and vibrant intellect. Tom took great pride in his children and grandchildren: the Cohen family of Malvern and Philadelphia, PA, and the Gould and Flaherty families of Wellesley, MA. and Denver, Co. He loved both reading and writing poetry, playing tennis, baseball, jazz, the Constitution, and his philosophical hero, Aristotle. Above all, he loved his wife, Winnifred and the mission-based, philanthropic research organization they built together since 1986 working to improve the quality of health care for women via the Athena Institute.

Yale Lazris L’64, attorney, active in his community, beloved family man, passed away quietly in his home with his wife at his side after a long and wonderful life. He attended Syracuse University where he met Marilyn, his wife for over 60 years, at the semester abroad in Florence, Italy, and then received his law degree from the Law School at Penn. He worked with Max Rosenstein in Newark and spent most of his career with Mandelbaum, Salzburg, Gold, and Lazris (now Mandelbaum Barrett). He also volunteered his services, including to the Sierra Club, the Urban League and the Rachel Coalition for battered women. His life was far more than his work. He lived for purpose, for family, and for friends. He touched so many lives through his humor, his undaunted intellect, and his intense bond to people. He enjoyed working with children, such as his volunteering with the Literary Coalition, and never met anyone he didn’t want to speak with. He always sought to learn, reading voraciously and never simply accepting the world as it was. He taught his three kids-Andy, Mitch, and Kim-to always look toward helping others and rejecting hate and ignorance. That’s how he lived his life. His loving grandkids-Michael, David, Matt, Rachel, Jacob, Bryce, and Elana-and his children’s spouses–Jenny and Marc–enjoyed every second with him, and he derived so much joy from speaking with them and spending time with them. He spent the last month of his life seeing all his kids and grandkids and entertaining all of them with his jokes and wisdom.

Anthony P. Baratta L’65 died Feb. 6th, 2024. For the last 10 years of his life, he was a resident of St. Joseph’s Manor. The Baratta family is grateful for the compassionate care he received. We’d especially like to thank Kathleen Falcone for her special warmth and kindness. For the past 17 years, since suffering his first major stroke at age 66, he has been sick. But even those years could not diminish the memory of the firebrand that was Anthony P. Baratta, Esquire for the 66 years of vitality that preceded it. The only child of the now deceased Anthony P. Baratta Sr. and Sophia (nee Rogus), a graduate of St. James High School in Chester and LaSalle College, he went on to graduate from the Law School at Penn in 1965. He married Dolores (Altomari) (deceased) in 1963 and together they had five children, Anthony J. (Trish), Angela Kearns (Tom), Adam (Charlotte), Andrew (Noelle) and Anita Householder (Keith), all of whom survive him along with 13 grandchildren Maggie, Kristen Weiss (Josh), Nicco, Dante, Devon, Holly, Luca, Grace, Deacon, Sophia, Kayden, Mac, Giabella and one great grandson, Harrison. After his divorce to Dolores in 1991, he later married Alla Kroutaia, from whom he became divorced after his first stroke. After law school, he was the very first law clerk to a newly elected Judge of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Judge James McDermott, who, later became a Supreme Court Justice for whom son, Anthony J., also clerked for as his first job after graduating law school himself in 1989. He briefly worked for the legendary courtroom cowboy James Beasley and engaged in partnerships and affiliations with some great trial lawyers over the years, including John F.X. Fenerty, Sr., Ray Takiff and Nick Lisi. He was also an entrepreneur. He started many small businesses, and he especially loved to be involved with restaurant ownership. He may have never cooked a meal himself in his lifetime, but he made sure to surround himself with people who knew food. He became a partner in a number of different restaurants over the years including Pouchos in Kensington, Amici’s on Erie Ave. near St. Christopher Hospital and Zio Mio on Castor Ave. in Northeast Philadelphia. He was a man of stories. He would have a story ready for any occasion or event. He had a great capacity to remember a joke and when appropriate, he could pull one relevant for the situation. He might not remember a name though, a weakness he would cover up with a hearty “hey sunshine” or “how you doing big-guy.” He had a capacity for language, ready with phrases in Italian, Greek, Hebrew, and Russian. When he ate at a restaurant, he invariably would order by asking the server, “what would you be having if you were eating with us tonight?” At any birthday or celebration, he would offer the toast, “May this most happy day be the unhappiest day of your life.” He would offer the sage advice of “be careful what you wish for, you might just get it.”

Frank Wright L’65 passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at his home at the age of 83. He was born on September 6, 1940, in Mifflintown, Juniata County, PA. He was the eldest son of the late Frank E. and Edna (Landis) Wright. Frank was a 1958 graduate of Juniata Joint High School. In 1962, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the Pennsylvania State University, and, in 1965, he graduated with a law degree from the Law School at Penn. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1965 through 1971,and was honorably discharged as a Specialist Fifth Class. He had been engaged in the private practice of law in Harrisburg for 55 years, and was a former assistant district attorney of Dauphin County. He was a member of the Pennsylvania and Dauphin County Bar Associations, and a member of the Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association and the Estate Planning Council of Central Pennsylvania. Frank had been a member of the board of directors of First Community Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiary, The First National Bank of Mifflintown, now Pennian Bank, for 20 years, and was currently a director emeritus thereof. He was a member and elder of Paxton Presbyterian Church, Paxtang, where he had served as a member of the session, the stewardship and finance ministry, the board of trustees and various church committees. Frank was also a member of the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, which he had served as a director, treasurer, and chairman of the administrative department and as a member of various operating committees. He had been a member of the Lower Paxton Business and Professional Association, the Rotary Club of Harrisburg, and the Polyclinic Medical Center Consulate. He was a life member of the Penn State Alumni Association, a former member and president of the Penn State Alumni Cub of Greater Harrisburg, and a member of the Nittany Lion Club, the Penn State Wrestling Club and the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club. Frank was a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America and its Hershey Region, the Classic Car Club of America, the Horseless Carriage Club of America and its Susquehanna Valley Region, and was a life member of the Williams Grove Old Timers and the Eastern Museum of Motor racing. He had been a member of the national Wildlife Federation and an adult member of The Pennsylvania High School Rodeo Association. His beloved wife, Sharon S. Wright, whom he married on August 17, 1963, preceded him in death, on October 18, 1991. He was also preceded in death by his brother, William K. Wright. He was the last of his immediate family, and the next to the last of the twenty-nine grandchildren of his paternal grandparents, the late Frank B. and Berthelda (Kennedy) Wright. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Terrence Boyle L’66 entered Eternal Life Monday, October 28, 2024, at Schenectady Center Nursing Home. Born in Rochester, N.Y., he was the son of Joseph and Anne Gallagher Boyle. Terrence graduated from Georgetown University and University of Pennsylvania. He was a U.S. Army veteran and had a long career as a tax attorney for the New York State Department of Tax and Finance. He is survived by many dear friends.

Charles Sokoloff L’66 passed away peacefully on March 11, 2024. He was 81. Charlie was born on June 9, 1942 in Brooklyn New York, the only child of Nekha Leibowitz Sokoloff and Nathan Sokoloff. In his youth, Charlie was an avid cyclist, often riding from Brooklyn to the airport with his cousin Art Leonard to watch the planes take off and land. After graduating from Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn, Charlie went on to study at Brown University where he found one of the great joys of his life, radio, at the start of WBRU, and made some of his closest lifelong friends. Charlie then graduated from law school at the University of Pennsylvania in 1966, received his LLM in Taxation from Boston University, and moved back to Rhode Island where he practiced law first at Tillinghast, Collins & Graham and then at Tobin & Silverstein, Hinckley Allen and then his solo practice. He was a devoted member of the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce in Woonsocket, a fervent Autumnfest worker, a Shriner and member of the Royal Order of Jesters, amusing children and living by the motto, Mirth is King. All who knew Charlie knew his dry humor, warm wit and tremendous bear hugs. Charlie was famous as well for knowing the very best, tastiest food in every country, city and town he visited, or came within 50 miles of. Charlie is survived by his children Audrey, Seth, and Daniel Sokoloff, three grandchildren, Nate and Ben Sokoloff, Leah Riley Brown and her husband Andrew McDonald, two great-grandchildren, Freya and Savanah Riley Brown, his many wonderful cousins and his beloved cat Chloe. Charles is also survived by his two former wives, Barbara Sokoloff and Catherine Nobleheart (née Christina Bond Sokoloff).

David Belasco L’67, 81, of South Orange passed away on March 27, 2024. Born in Newark, NJ, the first child of Martin and Gertrude Belasco, the family moved to Bradley Beach where David grew up with younger brothers Elliot and Kenneth. David attended Asbury Park High, Princeton, the Law School at Penn, and NYU Law. He was an estate planning specialist and manager at Mutual Benefit Life in Newark before moving to the Epstein firm in Springfield. A taxation expert, he served on the ABA Gift and Estate Tax Committee. The balance of David’s career was in private practice doing estate planning as well as pro bono work for family and friends and organizations he supported. While attending NYU, David visited the office of a friend who introduced him to coworker Barbara. David and Barbara were married in 1968, moving from Elizabeth to South Orange after their son Mark was born. David’s many interests included a passion for politics and history and he once ran for South Orange Village Trustee. He had a love of animals and served on the board of trustees of the Zoological Society of New Jersey. He enjoyed art and illustration and graduated from the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts and also served on the board. He was an avid sports fan and followed all the local teams (even once drafting a will for a Giants starting quarterback). David is survived by Barbara, Mark, daughter-in-law Grace and Kenneth. Donations in David’s memory can be made to Sierra Club New Jersey Chapter.

Steven P. Floman L’67, a dedicated lawyer from Milford, CT, passed away on January 7, 2024, with his wife of 57 years, Susan, by his side. He was 81. Steve was born in New Haven, CT on June 24,1942, the son of Lillian and Benjamin Floman. He graduated from Yale University in 1964, the Law School at Penn in 1967 and obtained a Master’s of Science and Taxation from the University of New Haven in 1985. Throughout his 50+ year career in the law, Steve was always committed to helping the underdog, including those who could not afford counsel and the elderly. Steve was widely recognized for his commitment to pro bono – in 1995 and 1997 by the Connecticut Bar Association, and again in 2017 as a Half-Century Honoree at the Connecticut Bar Association’s Celebrate Stars event. Steve was also committed to teaching and mentoring those around him, teaching business law and evidence for many years as an adjunct professor at the University of New Haven, and volunteering as an Attorney Trial Referee and Arbitrator for the Connecticut state court system. Beyond his many professional achievements, Steve was a wonderful and dedicated friend. He remained close to his Hillhouse and Yale classmates, participating in weekly Zoom calls with many. He was an avid Yale sports fan, agonizing over every football and basketball loss, and cheering with abandon when Yale won. He lived for his Boston Red Sox. He loved being silly, and could often be found singing (off-key) and dancing to whatever music happened to be playing. And he was ever the intellectual, taking courses at Yale long after he retired, even if it meant sneaking into the lecture halls to do so. But what mattered most to Steve was family. He was a dedicated husband for 57 years to his wife Susan, who he started dating in high school. He was a loving father to his daughter Betsy and her husband Scott (Fishbone), and his son Jonathan. He was a beloved brother to Gerry Floman. And most of all, he was the incredibly proud grandfather to his six grandchildren, Lucas, Alex, Kate, Sebastian, Cameron and Caroline. His greatest pleasure in life was spending time with them, goofing around, learning about their interests, and trying to instill in them his love of New York Times crossword puzzles. His legacy will live on forever in each of them.

William Macan, IV L’67 died on June 20, 2024, at age 81. Bill graduated from Haverford College in 1964 and magna cum laude from the Law School at Penn in 1967, where he was Order of the Coif and an Editor of the Law Review. He joined Morgan Lewis & Bockius in 1969 and left as Senior Partner in 2000. Bill spent the final years of his career with international law firm, Allen & Overy, as Senior Partner (2000-2004), and Of Counsel (2004-2007). He is survived by his wife Jane; his children Sandi (Chris) and Andy (Lisa); and his grandchildren Kyle, Katie, and Will.

J. Bernard McCurley, Jr. L’67 on May 27, 2024, in Kensington, MD, due to complications from a fall. No obituary was published.

Jacob “Jack” Nogi W’64, L’67, of Clarks Summit, passed away on December 4, 2023, at 81. Jack Nogi was born in Scranton on October 27, 1942. He attended Scranton Central High School. He earned his undergraduate degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1964 and his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1967, proudly following in the Penn footsteps of his father Eugene Nogi with both degrees. It gave Jack great pleasure as a father for his daughter Jennifer to do the same as a Penn undergrad decades later. For more than 50 years, Jack served his clients as a preeminent labor, trusts and estates, and real estate attorney. He built a successful practice over decades with longtime friends and partners at Nogi, Appleton, Weinberger & Wren, P.C. Later in his career, he was passionate about his work helping establish the Robert H. Spitz Foundation and serving as an integral trustee. In this role, Jack advocated for many local organizations, supporting numerous causes, while collaborating with the Scranton Area Foundation to maximize funding throughout Northeast Pennsylvania. It was his close personal relationships and intimate knowledge of the Scranton community that were most impactful. In 1965, Jack married his elementary school sweetheart, Carol Dickstein Nogi. With Carol, Jack was active in philanthropic activities for decades with a special emphasis on Jewish causes, both locally and nationally, and his and his children’s academic institutions. Jack took immense pleasure in his family, especially his grandchildren. He greatly enjoyed international travel with family, history and sports, including attending every one of his son’s football and lacrosse games in high school and college, racking up many miles driving throughout New England and the Mid- Atlantic. He was also an unofficial travel agent and concierge to all as Northeast Pennsylvania’s resident bon vivant providing the most detailed itineraries, obscure restaurant and sartorial references, whether in Throop or Tashkent. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carol; his two children and their spouses, Dr. Jennifer Nogi (Dr. Adam Hirsch) and Eugene Nogi (Alison Nogi); and five grandchildren, Matthew Hirsch, Lexi Hirsch, Brett Nogi, Nicholas Nogi and Alexander Nogi. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Eugene and Minnie Nogi. Jack cared for Minnie daily for over 30 years after his father’s passing as he did for many in his family.

Following his retirement, Frank devoted his professional talents, primarily pro bono, to persons of limited income and to non-profits. Frank became a Knight Magisterial in the now nine hundred-and-eleven-year-old Catholic lay Order, the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta. He became the first Secretary and General Counsel for its international relief agency branch, Malteser International Americas, in the Western Hemisphere. Supporting other Christian brethren, Frank was also a legal adviser for U.S. projects for the Greek Orthodox Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi in Mt. Athos, founded in the 10th century. Frank was a Director and one of the charter members of the American Association of Corporate Counsel (now Association of Corporate Counsel) helping to lead its efforts to internationalize the Association. He also served as a Director of the Ethics & Public Policy Center, Washington, DC, as a member of the U.S. State Department’s Advisory Committee on Private International Law and a member/officer of many other professional, cultural and business organizations. An avid traveler, up until the last year of his life, Frank had visited or worked in circa 150 countries. He was a keen hiker, fly fisherman, cook and movie, opera and Asian art buff—all pastimes he shared with his wife of 52 years. Frank lived an exemplary life in striving for excellence in all that he did, in always seeking the good in people and in doing good himself. He was the loving husband of Anne and father of his beloved children Sarah and Michael: Sarah O. Salati of New Rochelle, NY and her three children Lucian, Theodore and Mary, and Michael M. A. Orban of Sydney, Australia. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Michel Orban of Paoli, PA and Susan Eichler (Eric) of Malvern, PA.

Nathaniel Philip “Phil” Wardwell L’68 died on May 19th, 2024, at age 80. Phil was born in Watertown, New York. He attended public schools in Watertown through the ninth grade, and graduated from The Hill School, Pottstown, PA, and from Harvard College and the Law School at Penn. Following law school, Phil entered the U.S. Army as a Captain in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. He served for 4 1/2 years on active duty, in Charlottesville, Virginia, and at Kagnew Station, Asmara, Ethiopia, where he tried courts-martial, advised the post commander, and served as Acting Staff Judge Advocate. After being discharged from the Army, Phil was employed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as a Regional Attorney for the Watertown Region. He then was employed by the DEC as a litigation director and deputy division director at the DEC headquarters in Albany. During this time, he participated in the DEC’s groundbreaking lawsuit against General Electric Co. for pollution of the Hudson River with PCBs. This eventually led to designation of the lower Hudson as a Superfund site. Phil was also very active in cases involving the public right of navigation over freshwater rivers which had been used in the past for logging and other forms of commerce. At one point, he read every case in New York on the public right of navigation. This public right was ultimately vindicated in a decision by the New York State Court of Appeals. Phil became a staff attorney with the New Mexico Environment Department in 1997, handling water and air cases. He then became a staff attorney with the Laboratory Counsel’s Office of Los Alamos National Laboratory. He encouraged staff to pursue soil and water conservation techniques to stabilize polluted soils and prevent contaminated runoff. Following his retirement from the Laboratory in 2010, Phil and his wife Julie moved to Colorado, residing in Erie, Colorado. Phil became active in local movements to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by using solar and wind, and to use electric vehicles. He was a member of the Sierra Club, and supported their efforts reduce coal pollution. Phil loved his visits to the Caribbean and to Hawaii with his family and was interested in the environmental problems of those regions. He also enjoyed music, and sang with the Harvard Glee Club for four years, and with the Santa Fe Symphony Chorus for three years. Phil married Julene “Julie” Marie Reudink Strauss in Watertown in 1984. He is survived by Julie, Erie, Colorado; his brother Edward Wardwell, Watertown, NY; and by children Kristalyn Larsen, Louisville, Colorado; Kimberly Dufraux, Louisville, Colorado; Melissa Cloninger, Mount Vernon, Washington; and Philip M. Wardwell, Oswego, NY; and by six grandchildren.

Miner Hill Warner L’68 died at his home in New York City on November 26, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born on August 13, 1942 to Nancy (Hill) and Bradford Arnold Warner. He attended Allen-Stevenson School and graduated from Lawrenceville. He earned his AB from Harvard College, CEP from Institut d’Etudes Politiques (Paris), MSc from The London School of Economics and LLB from the Law School at Penn. After beginning his professional career at the law firm of Shearman & Sterling, he spent 20 years in investment banking, 16 years at Salomon Brothers including co-founding International Corporate Finance in London for five years, and with Salomon Brothers and Merrill Lynch in New York. In 1992 he co-founded Public Resources International, a financial advisory firm representing governments and creditors in third-world countries. His community involvements included serving as Chair of the Board of the New-York Historical Society at a pivotal moment. Under his tenure Betsy Gotbaum was hired as President, and the revitalization of the Society began. Miner subsequently introduced his friend Henry Luce to the Society which resulted in the Luce Center. He has served as Trustee and Executive Committee member of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine and the English-Speaking Union as well as director and committee member of the Graduate Theological Union (Berkeley, California), The General Theological Seminary, Council of the Americas and other not for profit boards. For the past two decades his main involvement has been as a Board member, and briefly Chair during a period of transition, of The Hispanic Society Museum and Library. For the past 19 years he has been President of The Pilgrims of the United States, a principal forum in New York for the promotion of understanding between the United States, the UK, and the Commonwealth. Miner is survived by his wife of 52 years Ellen (Murphy), his daughters Alix Mallet-Prevost Warner and Lily Wolcott Warner, his son-in-law Mohammed Yacine Ouarad, his granddaughter Fiona Amandine Ouarad, his brother Bradford Arnold Warner Jr., and many cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws who loved him.

1970s

William “Bill” Roberts L’70 died peacefully on August 30, 2024, after a brief illness. From courthouses to concert halls, colleagues, family, and friends are remembering the remarkable life of William (Bill) H. Roberts, Esq., a long-time partner at Blank Rome LLP – where he practiced prior to retirement for nearly a half century —and a passionate classicist, botanist, musician, and philanthropist. He was born June 14, 1945, in Buffalo, NY, the cherished son of Esther Creagh Roberts and William H. Roberts, Jr. In 1972, he joined Blank Rome, LLP (then known as Blank Rome Comisky & McCauley) as an associate, following a clerkship with The Honorable Malcom Muir, in the federal court in the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and a state court clerkship with President Judge Clinton Budd Palmer of the Northampton Court of Common Pleas.

At the Firm, Bill quickly developed a reputation as “a lawyer’s lawyer” in the finest Philadelphia legal tradition and ascended to Partner in Blank Rome’s formidable litigation department. He specialized in antitrust litigation and counseling, international cartel litigation, defamation and First Amendment issues, professional responsibility and legal malpractice, and federal election campaign finance law. Bill represented national and international corporations and individuals, in countless, highly complex, high-profile cases, in both civil and criminal antitrust litigation, including international cartel cases and defense of private class actions alleging price-fixing. Lauded for his exemplary legal acumen, universally respected throughout the Firm, Bill was tapped to serve as the first General Counsel of Blank Rome from 2009 to 2021, a period of significant growth for the Firm in the United States and abroad. In that role, Bill adeptly established the Office of General Counsel which expanded to include additional attorneys and a staff dedicated to managing the Firm’s risk management needs. Upon his retirement in 2021 after 49 years of service, he was frequently characterized as a sagely “Renaissance man” dedicated to the highest ethical standards. From 2021 to 2024, Bill was recognized in The Best Lawyers in America for Antitrust Law in Philadelphia. Throughout his career, he was a proud member of both the Philadelphia Bar Association and the American Bar Association. Bill attended Harvard University from which he graduated cum laude, majoring in Philosophy. He received his juris doctor degree from the Law School at Penn. In addition to his long and distinguished legal career, Bill pursued richly varied interests with unabashed singularity. Chief among these interests were: botany (the Academy of Natural Sciences lists him as a Research Associate); trout fishing (only using a fly rod); international travel (most recently Paris and the West Coast of Newfoundland and Labrador); philosophy; playing violin and lute (he was enthralled by Early Music); politics; and Greek and Latin literature (particularly Homer, Theocritus and Virgil in their original texts). He was passionate about the arts, having served over decades on the boards of a number of organizations, including the Curtis Institute, the Walnut Street Theater, and The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, where he served as the President of the Board of Directors for many years. At the time of his death, he was a trustee of the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society and Marlboro Music School and Festival in Marlboro, Vermont. He was also a board member of Tempesta di Mare Baroque Chamber Orchestra. Deeply connected to Harvard since graduation, Bill chaired the Board of Trustees for The Harvard Review of Philosophy. He was a member of The Philadelphia Club and the Harvard Club of New York. Bill was predeceased by his sister, Martha Roberts Detwiler and is survived by his niece, Lisa Detwiler (Don Mahoney), his nephew, Bill Detwiler (Michelle) and two great nephews, William A. Detwiler and Jack P. Detwiler.

James Spencer Bryan L’71 passed away on August 26, 2023. A graduate of Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts in Government (1966), Bryan graduated from the Law School in 1971, where he was the Managing Editor of the Penn Law Review and began his legal career as a law clerk for Judge Marvin Frankel in the Southern District of New York. After marrying Karen Bryan, he relocated to Los Angeles, where he built an esteemed career with several notable law firms. He was a partner at Arter & Hadden LLP, preceded by roles at Lawler Felix & Hall, Dretzin & Kauff, and as an associate at Seyfarth Shaw LLP and O’Melveny & Myers LLP.

James Magee L’71, an extraordinary artist known for his multifaceted creations, passed away on September 14, 2024, at 79. Magee’s legacy is tied to his enigmatic body of work, which spanned sculpture, poetry, and painting, His most famous creation, The Hill, located in the vast plains of West Texas, is a monumental stone installation that has been compared to the scale of Stonehenge. This mysterious, awe-inspiring piece took over four decades to construct and stands as a testament to Magee’s vision of art that fuses architecture, nature and poetry. Magee was born on June 3, 1945, in Fremont, MI to parents Robert Magee and Mary Branstrom Magee and was Ivy League educated at the University of Pennsylvania. As an attorney he worked with The Quakers and the United Nations on bills concerning the right to conscientiously object to military service. Later he continued to work with the United Nations on the “Law of the Sea.” Magee eventually settled in El Paso, Texas. There he adopted additional personas—Anabell Livermore and Horace Mayfield—under which he produced distinct bodies of work, particularly paintings. Magee’s metal collages and sculptures were often paired with poetic titles, and were exhibited across the US, Mexico, and Europe. James Magee’s work, especially “the Hill”, eludes simple categorization, evoking a mix of awe, solemnity and even sacredness in those that experienced it. His artistic and literary legacy including his poems published in “Letters to Goya: Poems, Titles and Letters to the Dead”, remains an enduring influence on contemporary art and poetry. His work has been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC. Further information can be found at mageehill.com. The planet has lost one of her most unique individuals. He was a compassionate, brilliant man, and he was regular people. James Magee had a profound and abiding love for the family he was born into, and the one he chose. James will forever be in our hearts He is survived by Camilla Carr (partner), Barbara Kemble (sister), Susan Wente (sister) and Dale Wente (brother-in-law), as well as countless nieces and nephews. His work and spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who experienced his art and his life.

Emmett Roden, III L’72 died on September 28, 2024, in Rockville, Maryland, after battling Parkinson’s Disease for nearly 25 years. Emmett was born in Huntsville, Alabama, served in the U.S. Airforce, and graduated from Brandeis University in 1968. Emmett then graduated from the Law School at Penn in 1972 and began his career as a devoted public servant. He worked first as an attorney at the Internal Revenue Service and then at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, where he was an Assistant General Counsel. Emmett loved telling jokes and had an irresistible sense of humor. He was a talented linguist, woodworker, bicyclist, and hiker. One of his greatest achievements was hiking the entire Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia in 1999, when he adopted the trail name “Logjumper.” He also built a two-story renovation to his home and will be best remembered in his overalls cleaning a paintbrush or working on the roof. Emmett is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Mary Kathryn Roden (née Arnold), his daughter and son-in-law, Kathryn Michelle Grajales and Andres Myles Grajales, his grandchildren, Sophia Kathryn Grajales and Samuel Myles Grajales, his siblings, Janet Roden Simonet, Margaret Ann Garza, and Samuel LeMaster, and many cherished extended relatives and family friends. He was predeceased by his younger daughter, Lily Rebecca Roden, and his parents, Emmett Norman Roden, Jr. and Margaret Ophelia Graves.

Murray Gerstenhaber L’73, a brilliant and esteemed mathematician, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2024, at the age of 96. Dr. Gerstenhaber was a mathematician and professor of mathematics at the University of Pennsylvania, best known for his contributions to theoretical physics with his discovery of Gerstenhaber algebra. The recipient of the prestigious Steele Prize for Seminal Contribution to Research in 2021 for papers he had written in 1963 and 1964, the significance of Dr. Gerstenhaber’s work was not appreciated until late in his career. Moses Gerstenhaber was born on May 6, 1927, in Brooklyn, NY, to Jewish immigrants, Pauline (Rosenzweig), a bridal gown seamstress, and Joseph Gerstenhaber, a mechanical engineer. A child prodigy recognized for his exceptional intellect from an early age, Gerstenhaber was profiled as “Child L” in Leta Hollingworth’s 1942 book, Children Above 180 IQ, Origin and Development. According to her book, at 10 years old, a Stanford-Binet test showed Child L to have the mental age of 19 years and an IQ of 199+. Recommended by the principal of P.S. 35 in Brooklyn, Gerstenhaber attended the Speyer School and subsequently the Bronx High School of Science, where he was named valedictorian and was awarded the prestigious 1944 George Westinghouse Award. The first Bronx Science student to matriculate at Yale University, he attended on a scholarship and spent two years in an accelerated program in Yale’s then-Sheffield Scientific School. He earned the Chittenden Prize, the university’s award for the highest grades in mathematics or the natural sciences, despite severe antisemitism. He graduated with his class in 1948, even though he spent 18 months in the Army from 1945 to 1947 working in Berlin in ground transportation and teaching classes in higher mathematics at a university the United States had established there. He was a proud veteran and often told stories about his experiences as a young man in the Army. Following his graduation from Yale, Gerstenhaber studied at the University of Chicago beginning in 1948 and received his PhD in 1951 where his advisor was A. (Abraham) Adrian Albert and his mentor was André Weil. Gerstenhaber engaged in postdoctoral study at Harvard from 1951 to 1952, and at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey from 1952 to 1953, where he was an assistant to Hermann Weyl. Gerstenhaber began teaching in the Department of Mathematics of the University of Pennsylvania in 1953, rising quickly to the position of full professor, and retired in 2011 as a Professor Emeritus and the longest-serving tenured faculty member in the University’s history. His research focus areas were Algebraic Deformation Theory, Structure of Algebras and Quantum Groups. Gerstenhaber made significant contributions to theoretical physics, notably his discovery of Gerstenhaber Algebra while at Penn. He was an active member of the Penn academic community, serving as chair of the Mathematics Department, and subsequently as chair of the Faculty Senate. According to the Mathematics Genealogy Project, Gerstenhaber was a dedicated teacher who developed 17 students and 69 descendants. He was also active in broader mathematical circles and was a founder of the Association of Members of the Institute for Advanced Study (AMIAS), a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and an Inaugural Fellow of the American Mathematical Society. Ever intellectually curious, Gerstenhaber spent his sabbatical as a first-year student at the Law School of the University of Pennsylvania, earning his JD in 1973, and becoming a member of the Pennsylvania bar. Interested in probabilistic inferences in law, he was a lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, and taught the first course of its kind to show how statistical evidence could be used defensively in criminal trials. Consistent with his academic pursuits, Gerstenhaber was interested in social justice and a long-standing member of the American Civil Liberties Union. His legacy as a pioneering mathematician and esteemed educator will continue to inspire generations to come. On a personal note, Gerstenhaber married Ruth Zager in 1956. He was supportive of her career as a physician when women were not typically professionals. He was a jogger as early as the 1970s, enjoyed classical music and bad puns. He is survived by his son David, daughter Rachel, son-in-law Alex, granddaughters Amanda, Arielle, Elana, and Mikaela, and grandsons Alexander, Joshua, and Dylan. His older son Jeremy James died in 2001, and his wife Ruth died in 2020.

Ralph Ibson L’73, a longtime advocate for veterans and mental health, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 17, 2024. He was born on April 19, 1945 in New York City, NY to Rose and Kurt Ibson, Holocaust survivors and refugees from Germany. Ralph loved being in nature, playing and listening to music, reading and discussing good literature, travel, and spending time with family and friends. Ralph attended Tufts University, enlisted and served in the U.S. Army as a Public Affairs Specialist, and then earned a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania. His legal career spanned over three decades including serving as Deputy Assistant General Counsel for the Veterans Administration, Staff Director for the Subcommittee on Health of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Vice President for Government Affairs for the National Mental Health Association, and National Policy Director for the Wounded Warrior Project. Throughout his career, Ralph was admired by colleagues for his tireless advocacy on behalf of veterans, his encyclopedic knowledge of healthcare issues, his modesty and politeness, and his dedication to helping others in need. Ralph was preceded in death by his first wife Julie and is survived by his wife Lizann Schloff, his second wife Susan Baron, and their daughter Zoe (Bela); his daughter Miriam (Kevin); son Jonah (Sarah); and grandchildren Julianne, Elliott, Noa, and Lev.

Joel Kaufman C’70, L’73 passed away on July 26, 2024 at the age of 75. Born in Philadelphia on March 29, 1949, Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Yetta and Max Kaufman. He is survived by his brother, Gary of Elmhurst, IL, and by many friends. He received both BA (1970) and JD (1973) degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. After a clerkship with Justice Samuel Roberts of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, Joel embarked on an almost half-century career in the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. While that was his work, his passions were helping others, lifelong learning, and being a good person. He was an Eagle Scout, Scoutmaster, and recipient of the Silver Beaver Award for Distinguished Service from the Allegheny Trails Council. He received immense satisfaction from mentoring young assistants in the DA’s Office and in teaching law at the Police Academy. He was a regular at both Temple Sinai and B’nai Israel (White Oak) minyan’s and he was a passionate supporter of democratic and Democratic causes.

Gerald Butler L’74 died peacefully at home on July 29 2024 at the age of 78 following a battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Known to most as Jerry, he was the husband of Susan (Tremml) Butler, to whom he was married for 56 years. Born in November of 1945 in Scranton, he was the son of the late Gerald J. and Margaret (Gallagher) Butler. Jerry graduated as valedictorian of Scranton Preparatory School’s class of 1963. Following his graduation from College of the Holy Cross in 1967, he attended the University of Pennsylvania in pursuit of his Juris Doctorate. Before completing his law degree, Jerry served in the Vietnam War in the United States Army intelligence division. Upon returning to civilian life, he completed his law studies and gained admission to the Pennsylvania Bar Association in 1974. His area of expertise included corporate law, civil litigation, real estate and commercial litigation. Affable and warm-hearted, Jerry enjoyed social settings where he reveled in telling stories and jokes, often savoring the listener’s reaction even more than the punchline. He was a dedicated family man and coach to his sons and their teammates for both the Green Ridge Little League and Green Ridge Biddy Basketball League. As an avid sports fan, Jerry had a special affinity for rooting for the underdog and instilled this instinct in his children. His knowledge base and influence extended far beyond the sports world. Jerry had an innate knowledge of seemingly every subject beyond law, including politics, education, business, religion, foreign languages and spirituality. If he felt his knowledge was lacking on a particular subject, Jerry would delve into the Encyclopedia Britannica without hesitation. His family perpetually served as a loyal audience to his performances, whether they be untested jokes, literary orations or spontaneous serenades, often with accompanying dance moves. This exceptional man will be sorely missed, but his generous and curious spirit will live on through his children and grandchildren—and hopefully through all who were lucky enough to have known him. Jerry is survived by his spouse, Susan, of Moosic Lakes; daughter, Jessica Zugel and husband, Anthony, of Sciota; sons, Gerald “Jamie” Butler and wife, Mindy, of Bridgton, Maine; Gregory Butler and wife, Kelly, of Scranton; Matthew Butler and wife, Erin, of Scranton; grandchildren, Maren and Charlie Zugel, Susie, Jack and Ellie Butler, Lily and Nolan Butler, Noel, Maggie, Annie and Emma Butler; as well as a nephew, Thomas J. Merrigan. Jerry was preceded in death by his sister, Margot (Butler) Merrigan.

Donald Miles L’74 of Bethlehem, passed peacefully on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at the age of 75 from metastatic prostate cancer. Husband of the late Julia (Bronstein) Miles (d. Oct. 26, 2016), he was born on December 19, 1948, to the late William R. and Mary P. (Coons) Miles and raised in Cranford, NJ. A graduate of Lehigh University (’71), Don earned his law degree at the University of Pennsylvania in 1974. A resident of Bethlehem for nearly his entire adult life, Don was a tireless advocate, activist, and community leader. From his start organizing for gender integration at Lehigh University and against the Vietnam War, including his legal defense of the Muhlenberg 5, he fought tirelessly for the causes he believed in. As a former member of the Bethlehem School Board, a long-time member of numerous community organizations, including LEPOCO, the ACLU, Boy Scouts of America, and others, and as an attorney for numerous community groups and causes, Don spent countless hours serving his community. Don devoted his later years to working as a leader with the Lehigh Valley and Pennsylvania chapters of the Sierra Club and WDIY 88.1 FM, his beloved community public radio station. In his law practice and as a volunteer, he also worked tirelessly to protect natural resources locally and regionally, including helping to lead the effort to designate Delaware Water Gap a National Park. Don loved the community as he loved his family, and he will be missed by both. He is survived by his sons, Michael William (Dr. Alexandra Stevens) Miles of Bellaire, TX, and Stephen Paul (Lauren Scott) Miles of Pittsburgh; his beloved grandchildren: Henry William Miles and Benjamin Arthur Miles, & Cole Julian Scott; his sister: Linda S. (Peter) Aagard of Nellysford, VA; his nephews: Peter, Brian & Kevin Aagard; and his nieces: Stephanie Meer & Melissa Bronstein.

David Buente, Jr. L’75 passed away on May 1, 2024, in Washington, D.C., at the age of 75. David had a distinguished career spanning over 34 years as Senior Counsel at Sidley Austin LLP, specializing in environmental law and white-collar criminal defense. Known for his legal expertise and integrity, David was also a husband to Frances A. Dubrowski, L’73.

Dennis Horn L’76 devoted husband and father, beloved by family and friends, passed away peacefully at home on December 13, 2024, at the age of 74, surrounded by his wife of 42 years Diane and sons Jonathan and David. He was the loving grandfather of Jordan and Leo Horn. Dennis embraced life to the fullest. He cherished his family and friends and nurtured his relationships in ongoing and significant ways, with a generous and caring spirit. He was a smart, conscientious and widely respected real estate and business attorney. Over 47 years in practice as a real estate attorney, Dennis led legal work for numerous projects significant to the revitalization of Washington. He was widely admired by his clients and colleagues. Dennis was warm and witty, and a voracious reader. His intellectual curiosity and determination to have a full and productive life following his retirement led him to enter graduate school and receive a MA in history in 2024. Dennis was born on April 10, 1950, in Elmira, NY, to Joyce and Irving Horn. He grew up in Elmira, where his mother was a homemaker, and his father was a dentist. Dennis graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1968, where his academic achievements included membership in the National Honors Society and winning a National Merit Scholarship. He was also on the high school debate team, ran cross country, and was on the wrestling team, winning Outstanding Wrestler awards. Dennis was an Eagle Scout, and in the Jewish community was a member of AZA. Dennis continued his education at the University of Rochester, where he graduated with a BA with highest honors in history and economics in 1972. He received a Rotary scholarship to study at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he was awarded an MS in Urban and Regional Planning, and then to the Law School at Penn, from which he received a JD. Dennis loved to travel with his family and made frequent trips in the United States, to Europe and to Japan. He particularly enjoyed their trips to Aspen, CO in the summer for Music School concerts and intellectual events. He loved the outdoors, enjoying hiking, biking, camping and fly fishing. He was an avid reader, with over 15 different library cards. A lifelong learner, he constantly was exploring new ideas and concepts, be they history, economics, or anything that he hadn’t tried yet. Like his father, Irving Horn, Dennis had a keen interest in other people, and liked to greet those around him in parks, in his neighborhood, and anywhere he went. He loved watching movies and television shows with his family and also had a deep love for the theatre. Dennis was a partner at the firm of Holland & Knight. He lectured and wrote extensively about various aspects of commercial real estate development. He served as a member of the District of Columbia Mayor’s Terrorism Task Force, assisting the Mayor with the city’s response to the commercial and business impact of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Over his 47 years as a practicing real estate attorney, Dennis led legal work for landmark developments in Washington, among them: Amtrak’s $1.1 high speed rail project, development of over 800,000 square feet in Georgetown and in the West End, and the Research and Innovation Campus of Children’s National Hospital. In addition, Dennis led a team of lawyers and other professionals representing a private real estate fund in the acquisition, development and dispositions of over $1.2 billion of real estate nationwide. He was designated as a Super Lawyer from 2007-2020. Dennis provided pro bono counsel to several non-profits including the Friends of the Library Montgomery County. In the late 1990s, Dennis headed a task force that recommended a program for regulatory reform in the District of Columbia which was largely implemented by the D.C. Council. That experience inspired Dennis’s Master’s Thesis at UMD later in 2024, entitled “The Clash between Race and Politics: Marion Barry, the District of Columbia Financial Control Board, and the Fight for Home Rule.” Before joining Holland & Knight, Dennis was a partner in the law firm of Dunnells & Duvall, which merged with Holland & Knight in January 1994. He previously served as General Counsel to Levitt Homes, Incorporated in Boca Raton, Florida, and was associated with the law firm of Fried Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson of Washington, D.C. In 2004, Dennis edited a book entitled The Commercial Lease Book – Expert Tools for Drafting and Negotiation (ABA Publishing 2004) which has become an ABA Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section bestseller. In addition to his wife and sons, Dennis is survived by his sisters Linda Horn Schatz and Sherry Horn Keller, daughter in law, Adi Horn, and grandsons Jordan Horn and Leo Horn.

Lee A. Rosengard L’76, beloved Master in Law Lecturer and longtime partner at Stradley Ronon Stevens & Young, passed away unexpectedly on April 30, 2024, at 72. Rosengard dedicated 41 years of his legal career to Stradley, Ronon, Stevens & Young, LLP, where he retired as a litigation partner in December 2017. A pioneer in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), he founded and chaired Stradley’s groundbreaking ADR Practice Group in the mid-1990s. He held many roles throughout his career, including Chair of Stradley’s Litigation Department and General Counsel for over 20 years. As an active member of the legal community, Rosengard served on the CPR Institute Panel of Distinguished Neutrals and the American Arbitration Association Commercial Panel and chaired the Philadelphia Bar Association’s ADR Committee in 2006. A dedicated educator, Rosengard taught Introduction to U.S. Law and Legal Methods in the Law School’s Master in Law Program for over a decade. He profoundly impacted his students and colleagues, mentoring many and often inviting students for coffee to offer career and life advice. He was known for his kindness, genuine care for others, and passion for teaching, leaving a lasting legacy in the classroom. In 2018, after retiring from Stradley, Rosengard founded Rosengard ADR, where he continued to offer his expertise as a mediator, arbitrator, and neutral evaluator. Rosengard is survived by his wife, Andrea Kramer CW’73 L’76; Loving father of Rebecca Kramer Rosengard (Jennifer Robinson), Joanna Kramer Kowitt (Joshua), and Laura K.R. Thompson (Jeffrey). Dear brother of Steven Rosengard (Patty) and Peter Rosengard (Faye). Adoring “Grandpa” of six grandchildren.

The Hon. Mark Andrew Baber L’78 passed away suddenly in Jersey City Medical Center on Saturday March 30, 2024. He was 70 years old. Born on December 4, 1953 to Dr. Julius and Joyce Baber, he was the eldest of five children and was a proud lifelong resident of Hudson County. He was a proud graduate of Our Lady of Victories School in Jersey City and Regis High School in New York City. He studied at the Sorbonne in Paris while pursuing his bachelor’s degree at St. Peter’s College and received his JD from the Law School at Penn in 1978. Having been appointed to the judiciary by former Governor Tom Kean in 1989 at the youngest age possible, Judge Baber was one of the longest-sitting Superior Court Judges in modern New Jersey history. He served from the day of swearing in to his seventieth birthday. He was devoted to his children and to his chosen profession. He loved being a mentor to the many law clerks that supported him. Over the course of his career, he held assignments in the Family Division, the Civil Division, and the Criminal Division. Judge Baber retired in December 2023 and continued to serve on recall until the time of death. Not only was Mark an avid sports fan, he was a lifelong amateur historian and a Francophile. His sharp intelligence was matched by his rapier wit. He loved his family and never missed an event. He will be forever missed by those that loved him. Judge Baber was a loving father to his children James, Stephen and Marguerite and their mother Peggy Simpson. He was a beloved older brother to siblings Bruce, Matthew, and Susan Baber, and Nancy Kelley.

Gayle Nelson L’78 died peacefully on September 26, 2024, following a short, courageous fight against pancreatic cancer. She was 72 years old. Born October 3, 1951, in Detroit, MI, Gayle was the oldest of two siblings. Her sister, Fern Paula Nelson, MD, survives her. She graduated from Cass Technical High School in Detroit in 1969 and received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan in 1973. After a short stint working in Washington D.C., Gayle entered the Law School at Penn, receiving her Juris Doctor degree in 1978. She met her husband of 45 years, Michael Leland Wheet, while at Penn. Upon graduation, they moved to Washington, DC, where they have lived ever since. Gayle’s lifelong search for intellectual and personal fulfillment took her on multiple paths. She practiced law for several years with the national law firms Morgan Lewis, Surrey & Morse as well as Hunton & Williams. Gayle also served in the Office of the General Counsel at the FCC and at National Public Radio before taking a break to start a family. While being an accomplished and loving mother she found time to embark on a teaching career at the Widener School of Law in Delaware and, several years later, to receive a master’s degree in public health from Johns Hopkins University. This last accomplishment resulted in a career change that included positions at the National Institutes of Health and with the Hilltop Institute at the University of Maryland’s Baltimore campus, from which she retired in 2016. Gayle’s passion for life found expression via several outlets. Her interest in travel, foreign cultures and history took her and her beloved husband to Europe, Mexico, Costa Rica and Morrocco. Gayle also traveled with her family to several Caribbean islands, where she satisfied her love of white sand and blue water. Upon turning 50 she decided that life required an additional challenge, so she trained for and ran in the Marine Corps Marathon. From 2019-2020 Gayle served as a volunteer docent for the “Outbreak: Epidemics in a Connected World” exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Faced with free time during the pandemic, Gayle developed an interest in bridge, teaching herself online and developing several friends in the process. One of her last trips was to California where she got to meet her online group of bridge friends and to visit with her family. Family was everything to Gayle, and she derived great pleasure from seeing her sons develop into young men of great character. Gayle was the driving force behind an annual Fourth of July picnic that drew family from across the country. She took great delight in decorating the Christmas tree, as it meant the joyous gathering of the family. Gayle was predeceased by her parents, Howard and Tommie Nelson of Detroit. She is survived by her husband, Michael Leland Wheet; her sons, Michael Nelson Wheet and Thomas Leland Wheet of Los Angeles and New York City, respectively; her sister, Fern P. Nelson, MD, of San Diego; and many aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews, all of whom were a source of joy during her life.

1980s

Michael Mentzel L’80 passed away on August 7, 2024, at home, surrounded by his loving family. He developed pancreatic cancer after successful treatment for multiple myeloma. His greatest joy was spending time with his devoted spouse Maria Rita (Peronace), his beloved children, Erica (Andrew) Garcia, Michael (Hana Fudala), Maria (Bruce McElwee), and his four grandchildren. He is survived by his brother Eric (Meredith Beck) and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Muriel, older brother Joseph and infant siblings Barbara, Richard, and Barry. He was a mentor and friend to many, and like a father and brother to friends and neighbors. He was a passionate advocate for his clients and colleagues at White and Williams. He loved his Huntingdon Valley community and was an early board member of the Rails to Trails Coalition. He loved making bouquets from Rita’s garden and biking in Cape May and on the local trail he saw to fruition.

Nancy Schultz L’81 passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on December 15, 2023. Born July 21, 1953, Schultz earned her Bachelor of Arts from Boston University before graduating from the Law School at Penn in 1981. Schultz began her distinguished legal academic career as a legal writing professor at Villanova University Law School, later serving as Director of Legal Research and Writing at George Washington University Law School. In 1996, she joined Chapman University’s Fowler School of Law, becoming the Kennedy Professor of Dispute Resolution and Director of the Competitions Program. Over her 27 years at Chapman, she built the Competitions Program from the ground up, guiding teams to national prominence in trial advocacy and alternative dispute resolution. Nancy was known for her ability to teach and coach across multiple areas, including appellate advocacy, trial skills, negotiation, mediation, and client counseling. She served in leadership roles for international competitions and was widely recognized for her expertise on a global scale. Schultz is survived by her daughter, Lindsay Schultz, her son, Kyle Schultz, and her siblings, Lisa, Cindy, and Carl.

Eugene “Gene” Amandus Studer GL’83 passed away on November 1, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend passed away unexpectedly on November 1st, 2024 at his home on Vashon, Washington. Raised in a military family, Gene was born on September 20, 1947 at Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey to Rosario (Duarte) Studer and COL Robert Studer USA, Ret. He was the oldest of 4, with two sisters, Rita and Maria and his brother, Mark. Gene followed his father’s path into the Army, attending St. John’s University in Minnesota for one year before attending the United States Military Academy (USMA ’70). While at the Academy, Gene met the love of his life, Nancy Marilyn Feyereisen, at a party hosted by her parents. Off to a rocky start, Gene offended Nancy by disliking her mother’s Christmas bread, but his charm, intellect, and mischievous wit quickly won Nancy over. After he graduated and was commissioned as a 2LT in the Army, they were married on June 6th, 1970, at Ft. Meyer, Virginia. They had three children, Jennifer, Matthew and Marah. A soldier and scholar, Gene dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice. He graduated from Santa Clara University Law School with a Juris Doctorate in 1977 and furthered his legal education with an LLM from University of Pennsylvania in 1983. Primarily serving as a defense attorney, Gene’s military service was varied and complex, ranging from defending soldiers in Korea to military doctors as a special assistant to the US Attorney. He retired from the Army in 1992 as a Lt. Colonel Judge Advocate General after 22 years of active-duty service. Gene continued his career in medical malpractice at the United States Attorney’s office, where he served as an Assistant US Attorney. He then moved to Abbey, Putnam, Albo and Causey law firm, practicing maritime and personal injury law, defending workers and the underserved. Gene spent the final part of his career practicing medical malpractice law at the Johnson, Graffe, Keay, Moniz & Wick law firm. Gene unconditionally loved Nancy, recently celebrating 54 years of marriage. He loved his children and extended family and friends. Gene also loved learning. Forever intellectually curious, he was a student of democracy, history, literature, and geology. He loved America, so much so that he often carried a copy of the Constitution in his pocket. He was also a writer, poet and a lover of poetry. But perhaps most of all, he loved fly fishing. A self-proclaimed fishing bum, he spent years camping and fishing throughout the United States and Europe. His joy was a fly rod in his hand and a river under his feet searching for the perfect drift and a big brown trout, preferably in Yellowstone National Park or the braids on the Madison River. He reveled in sharing his love of fishing with his children, grandchildren and fishing buddies. “Poets talk about ‘spots of time,’ but it is really fishermen who experience eternity compressed into a moment. No one can tell what a spot of time is until suddenly the whole world is a fish and the fish is gone.” A River Runs Through It. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, COL Robert Studer, USA, Ret., Rosario Duarte Studer, and his sister Rita Dudley. Gene is survived by his wife, Nancy Marilyn Studer (Feyereisen); his children Jennifer Studer (Peter) Houston, COL Matthew (Kari) Studer USA, Ret., and Marah (Sebastien Gaetan) Studer; former son-in-law Stewart (Jody) Todd; his brother MAJ Mark (Nancy) Studer USA, Ret., and sister, Maria Studer; and his grandchildren John Houston, Alex Todd, Emily Houston, Owen Todd, Maxwell Studer, Ellery Studer, Vivian Studer and Milo Studer.

Matthew Yee L’85 died on December 2, 2023, after a yearlong fight with liver cancer. He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on April 11, 1959, a year of great change in Hawaii with statehood. Matt grew up in an Asian American home. He attended Punahou School for his formative years where he developed a wonderful talent for music. He even wrote his graduation song in 1978. Matthew went on to Dartmouth College and then to the University of Pennsylvania to become a lawyer. Returning home, he put together a local band which had hits on local radio in the early 90s. He gradually put together his own show for Hawaii Public Radio as well as gay pride events from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. That’s when the cruise ships picked him up and he became quite an act in the infamous schooner bar. It was during this time that he developed a close bond with Paul Hannigan, who he eventually married on December 21, 2013. Matt’s cruise ship career took him to ports all over the world, as well as performing at private events for the last 20 years.

Ward Lowell Smith G’85, L’86 passed away on May 8, 2024. He was a retired assistant general counsel for Exelon Corporation.

Steven Block L’89, a former Belvedere councilmember and the city’s most recent Citizen of the Year Emeritus, died May 11, 2024, after a battle with prostate cancer. He was 62 years old.

Thomasenia “Tommie” Duncan, L’89 passed away on April 23, 2024, after a brief illness. Born on April 2, 1964, in New York City, Tommie was raised in Baltimore, Maryland. Born on April 2, 1964, in New York City to proud parents, Alfred and Vivian Duncan, the family returned to Baltimore, Maryland where her grandmother, aunt, cousins, and extended family were a constant presence and an infinite source of loving support. Tommie’s vibrant personality and authentic curiosity resulted in long-lasting friendships from childhood. She attended Roland Park Country Day School, where her passion for social justice and advocacy was nurtured. As a high school student, she interned at the State of Maryland Public Defenders Office in Baltimore City. Tommie attended Brown University (Class of 1986) where she excelled academically and enriched campus life through her leadership in cultural arts programming. Her confidence, wry sense of humor and genuine spirit endeared her to a wide array of classmates, many of whom remain close friends. Following college, Tommie pursued her commitment to advocacy and earned her JD at the Law School at Penn (Class of 1989), where she was a member of the Penn Law Review. She completed her third year of law studies as a visiting student at Yale University Law School. While Tommie started as a successful litigator at Covington & Burling, LLP, she couldn’t deny her calling to public and community service. Thus began a journey, more like a mission than a career, that leveraged her nimble intellect to become a remarkable woman of public service. Staying rooted in her dedication to change the conditions that perpetuate voicelessness, Tommie invested her time and talents in a wide range of organizations. She served as General Counsel to the Federal Election Commission, America’s Promise—The Alliance for Youth, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. She also served as Senior Legal Advisor to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration; Acting Deputy Solicitor and Special Assistant to the Solicitor of the U.S. Department of Labor in the Clinton Administration; and, in her most recent position, Panel Executive for the United States Judicial Panel on Multi-district Litigation. She was an elected member of the American Law Institute. Tommie knew that mentoring the next generation of civic-minded activists was essential to assuring sustainable change. Accordingly, during her career, she taught at Georgetown University Law Center and at the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law. Tommie is also a Founding Mother of the Washington Area Women’s Foundation, a community-supported foundation that invests in the power of women and girls of color in the Washington, D.C., region. She also served as President of the D.C. Rape Crisis Center Board and Vice-Chair of the Board of the Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School in Washington, D.C. She served on the Edmund Burke School Board of Trustees and chaired its Equity and Inclusion Committee. Her love for young people also extended to membership in Jack and Jill of America, Inc., a historic organization focused on providing social, cultural, and educational opportunities for youth. Tommie was a woman of deep faith and reverence. She was a member of New Bethel Baptist Church in Washington D.C, where she participated in a variety of ministry classes. Tommie’s intellect, charm, and joy were unparalleled. Anyone who met her instantly fell in love. She enjoyed the beach, long walks, reading and listening to all kinds of music, especially Sade. Her laughter was medicine for an enormous circle of friends. Her sound counsel was freely given and treasured. Tommie and Rayner (Ray) Johnson formed a bond of deep and abiding love. As partners in life, they brought each other immense happiness. Ray’s commitment to caring for Tommie during her illness was a blessing to behold. Tommie is survived by her son, Hunter Harold, who was the source of unmatched joy. Together, they traveled the world, explored thorny questions of social justice, cared for family, and committed to continuing their family legacy of excellence in service to others. She co-parented faithfully with Hunter’s father, Avron Harold. Tommie is also survived by her aunt Sylvia Banks Fisher, cousin Vivian Cidney Banks, cousin, Eric A. Banks – EL and countless other family and friends.

1990s

Steven Norris L’98 passed away February 20, 2024. Steven was born in San Luis Obispo and attended San Luis Obispo High School. He earned a BA from UCSD and studied international relations for two years in the United Kingdom. He then returned home to study law at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his JD in 1998. Steven worked as an attorney in New York at Coudert Brothers LLP and in London at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer before returning to San Luis Obispo to serve as Chief Compliance Officer and General Counsel to Lindvall Capital Management LLC. He loved staying fit and during a respite from practicing law he was the co-owner of a gym in Valencia. At the time of his passing, he was Chief Compliance Officer at Open Door, an international investment firm. A dog lover throughout his life, Steve was rarely without a pet dog by his side. He excelled at tennis and golf. He particularly enjoyed camping and hiking with his much loved little boy JT, of whom Steven recently said, “My son is my reason to be.” Steven is survived by his parents John and Kathy Norris [nee Long], his son John T., his sister Leah Jenner and her husband Graham, nephews Brandon and Colin, several aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

2000s

2010s

2020s