Click a button to jump to that decade’s class notes.

Maggie Wheeler Sadoway ’64 writes, “Sixty years in 160 words! 1964–67: Studied, worked, traveled on four continents, sometimes with Kalamazoo grads. 1967–80: Thirteen years in Athens, Greece. Taught English, supported women’s liberation. Met an Ohio mathematician/artist there, married him, birthed a son. Jack was first dad ever allowed in delivery room—lifetime achievement, paved the way for other couples. 1980–2016: With my sister, 33 years running a small natural foods store in Lenox, Massachusetts. Adopted baby daughter in Peru. Mostly homeschooled our kids, hosted a dozen international students, worked for racial equity, political sanity, and battered women’s safety. Cared for mom and then husband through their Alzheimer’s and deaths 10 years apart. 2016–24: Moved to Turners Falls, Massachusetts, a block from three grandkids and their parents. Put miles and miles on ‘Grandma’s ChatMobile.’ Welcomed our daughter’s two sons into the family, in the surgical unit for one. More miles on that Honda Fit. Became a volunteer proofreader/writer/photographer/coffee-supplier for our dying-breed, small-town, nonprofit, independent weekly newspaper. Find me on Facebook and at maggiesad@verizon.net.”

A group of K alumni had a mini reunion in Philadelphia. Pictured are Bill Garrow ’68, Joe Young ’68, Nancy (Southard) Young ’67 and Mary Lou Hess ’67.

Karen Stanley ’69 has (“finally!”) retired and is now professor emerita at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, North Carolina, having taught academic English as a Second Language there for 39 years. She first began tutoring ESL in 1976, while she was taking modern Greek at Wayne State University. Later, in Athens, Greece, where she spent half a year to practice her Greek, she set up a tutoring service. A few years later, when she got bored working in the legal information section of the World Bank in Washington, D.C., she started taking graduate linguistics classes at American University, but before finishing an M.A., she accepted the job at Central Piedmont. She eventually completed her M.A. in linguistics by commuting from Charlotte to Columbia, South Carolina. She rounded out her career by sharing what she learned, making more than 35 international and 30 regional conference presentations. In addition, she published a composition textbook and a grammar workbook along with numerous articles.

Michael Kane ’74 joined Andrew Paul ’75 and his wife, Katie, at their daughter’s destination wedding in Branson, Missouri.

Elisa Klein ’75 retired in July 2023, after 35 years as a professor of human development at the University of Maryland, College Park. Prior to that, she was a professor in the College of Education at The Ohio State University, Columbus, for eight years, after receiving her M.S. and Ph.D. (1980) at Penn State. Forty-three years in higher education provided many opportunities for conducting research in early childhood education, mentoring doctoral students who have gone on to become important contributors to early education policy in the U.S. and abroad, and supporting the education of numerous cohorts of students who became teachers of young children. Elisa also served as the director of the Center for Young Children on the University of Maryland campus and spent several sabbaticals as a visiting scientist at the Administration on Children and Families in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She was an American Association for the Advancement of Science Policy Fellow and worked in the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences at the National Institutes of Health. Her focus has always been on the intersection of research in child development and the formulation of public policy to support young children and their families, especially those at risk. After a challenging first retirement year health wise, Elisa is starting to consider how she might best continue to contribute in this domain in the current political climate—not an easy task. She is starting to travel again and enjoys spending time with her two adult daughters, who live on opposite edges of the U.S., in Boston and Hawaii.

The American Chemical Society’s 2025 National Awards recipients include Eric Martin ’78 and Bill DeGrado ’77. Eric is receiving the ACS Award for Computers in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Research. Director of Computational Chemistry at Novartis, Eric has worked in computational drug design and herbicide design for over 30 years, has been awarded the lifetime title of Novartis Leading Scientist, and is currently developing novel methodologies for two areas of drug discovery. He holds a Ph.D. in physical organic chemistry from Yale University. Bill is receiving the Ronald Breslow Award for Achievement in Biomimetic Chemistry, supported by an endowed fund established by Ronald Breslow and others. Biomimetic chemistry involves using biological information to inspire new chemistry based on natural principles. A professor at the University of California San Francisco, Bill is principal investigator in the DeGrado Lab, which studies the structure of proteins to understand disease-related processes and develop new treatments, particularly in relation to influenza A, antibiotic-resistant infections, HIV and Alzheimer’s disease. Bill holds a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Chicago. Eric and Bill were roommates at K and each earned a B.A. in chemistry.

Kelly B. Brill ’80 retired in December after 30 years of service as pastor of Avon Lake United Church of Christ in Avon Lake, Ohio. The Oklahoma native found her drive to become a minister while attending K. Under her leadership, the Avon Lake United Church of Christ completed a $3 million renovation to the sanctuary, added a youth center to the property, and started the Good Neighbor Thrift Shop. She will continue running her consulting business, Calm Consulting and Coaching.

William Fisher ’80 writes, “Bill and his wife bought the farm in 2011, in Viroqua, Wisconsin—the Driftless Area—where there are more certified organic farmers than any other county in the U.S. of A. Eight years of ‘boutique’ farming for local farm-to-table chefs/restaurants (two James Beard finalists) turned out to be the site of lots of sex and death. (That’s what farming is!) But we didn’t know it was going to include the deaths of our co-farmers—my wife’s parents. At the same time, Toril’s art career took off (torilart@gmail.com). In one weekend in Minnesota, we made more money in art sales than a whole summer of organic produce farming had ever done. So, we sold the farm and moved back to the civilized world (Sheboygan, Wisconsin: the Malibu of the Midwest!), where our world revolves around the summer art fair circuit along the I-90/I-94 corridor. O happy days!”

Jon Stryker ’82 was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in the area of leadership, policy and communications, with the specialty business, corporate and philanthropic leadership. Jon is the founder and president of the Arcus Foundation, a grantmaking organization which supports the advancement of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender human rights, and conservation of the world’s ape populations. He is also a founding board member of the Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy in Northern Kenya, Save the Chimps in Fort Pierce, Florida, and Greenleaf Trust in Kalamazoo. He is a patron of nature of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and a member of the Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation Council for Hope and has served on the boards of The Museum of Modern Art and Kalamazoo College.

Jonathan Warshay ’82, re-elected as West Bloomfield Township trustee in November 2024, was selected by the township board to be township supervisor when the newly re-elected supervisor left to pursue another opportunity. The township supervisor oversees the police, fire, building, development services, engineering, environmental, code enforcement, human resources, information technology, budgeting, purchasing/procurement, assessing, and water utilities departments.

John Anzalone ’86 spent the 2024 fall semester as a resident fellow at the JFK School of Government at Harvard University. As an Institute of Politics resident fellow, John taught a study group for undergrads and graduate students on the 2024 elections and the intersection of polling and messaging. He also guest lectured throughout the university system. John was the lead pollster for President Biden’s 2020 presidential campaign and was a pollster for both of President Obama’s campaigns. His polling firm, Impact Research, celebrated its 30th year in business.

Meredith (Robertson) Eaton ’88 writes, “While in Savannah, Georgia, on our annual Class of ’88 girls’ trip, we stopped a stranger to take our picture in Forsyth Park. What are the odds he was also a K grad, now living in Australia but also visiting Savannah. We made him jump in the photo, but unfortunately didn’t get his name and year!” Pictured with him are (from left): Meredith (Robertson) Eaton, Christy (Kortryk) DeGrendel, Allison Pudduck, Anne (Herrnstein) Morris and Erin (O’Brien) Whaley.

Cristin Reid ’90, chair and CEO of Capitol National Bank in Lansing, Michigan, was recognized by American Banker at the 2024 Most Powerful Women in Banking Gala, held in New York City in October 2024. Cristin was also a featured speaker at the conference. In September, Cristin was one of the officers representing Capitol National Bank as the bank was honored in Atlanta, as a Top 5 finalist in the country for the “Extraordinary Bank of the Year” award given by the Institution for Extraordinary Banking. On the same evening, the bank received the Influence and Impact Award at the Greater Lansing Entrepreneurial Awards. 

Eric Hegg ’91 began serving as dean of Michigan State University’s College of Natural Science in September 2024. Eric joined the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology in 2006. His previous role was as the associate dean for budget, planning, research, and administration in the College of Natural Science, a position he held since January 2020. Prior to that, he served for approximately seven years as the director of MSU Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center’s business operations and as the MSU subcontract lead. Eric’s research is at the interface between chemistry and biochemistry, where he focuses on environmentally important processes, including biofuel production and enzymes involved in the global nitrogen cycle. He earned his doctoral degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Marian Goodman Gallery announced that Julie Mehretu ’92 has been awarded the rank of Officer of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ministry of Culture. The prestigious award recognizes eminent artists and creators and those who have contributed significantly to furthering the arts and culture in France and throughout the world. Born in Ethiopia, Julie lives and works in New York City.

Paul Ebner ’93, professor of animal sciences, has been named head of Purdue University’s Department of Animal Sciences. After graduating from K with a degree in political science, Paul traveled as a Peace Corps volunteer to rural Paraguay, where he worked with poultry and swine producers. He returned to the U.S. and completed master’s and doctoral degrees in animal sciences at the University of Tennessee and postdoctoral work in microbiology and immunology at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Paul joined the Purdue faculty in 2006.

Matt Longjohn ’93 is one of 12 new representatives in Michigan’s 103rd Legislature. Matt represents the State House of Representatives District 40, which encompasses Oshtemo Township, Texas Township, the city of Portage and portions of Kalamazoo. Matt holds M.D. and M.P.H. degrees from Tulane University. He was a fellow at the Altarum Institute and served on faculty at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He co-directs a course at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine and serves on the board of directors of the Committee to Protect Healthcare.

Michael L. Bąk ’96 recently transitioned from a distinguished career as a U.S. diplomat to leading public policy for Facebook (Meta) in Thailand and regional institutions in Southeast Asia. During his tenure, he spearheaded strategic initiatives to address the intersection of digital rights, human rights and gender equity. Michael served from 2023–24 as the executive director of the Forum on Information and Democracy, a Paris-based global NGO dedicated to ensuring democratic safeguards for the information ecosystem and addressing the societal impact of big tech’s technology, particularly in the Global Majority. Recently, Michael co-founded Sprint Public Interest, a Bangkok-based public interest market research firm. The firm’s mission is to support progressive, sustainable policymaking and advocacy through data-driven insights that inspires policymakers to create conditions for all people to build the lives they choose, in peace, health and security. In addition to these endeavors, Michael is a Non-resident Senior Fellow at the NYU Center for Global Affairs, where he focuses on cyber policy. He also serves on the advisory board for the Centre for AI Leadership in Singapore. Michael remains connected to his Michigan roots, serving on the board of directors for Eisenhower Dance Detroit (EDD), a nonprofit international touring dance company that also engages the community through the School of EDD. Michael splits his time between Singapore, Thailand and Portugal with his partner, Ferdian Widjaja, an Indonesian-Singaporean marketing executive.

Christopher Lyons ’96 has been named assistant vice provost for faculty affairs at The University of New Mexico. Chris joined UNM as a faculty member in the Department of Sociology and Criminology in 2006 and has served in various administrative roles. Chris earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology from K and an M.A. and Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Washington. Honigman LLP announced the appointment of Kathryn Doyle ’99 as managing partner of its Kalamazoo office in January. Kate joined Honigman in 2008, when the firm established its presence in the Kalamazoo market. She became a partner in 2015. She holds a J.D. from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law.

Hastings+Chivetta Architects recently welcomed Diana Daly ’01 as a senior proposal coordinator. With nearly 10 years of experience in marketing and interior design at various architecture and design firms, her passion for architecture emerged early in her career, inspiring her to pursue a Master of Science in design. Diana now combines her expertise and enthusiasm for design with her professional skills, playing a key role in developing strategic proposals that shape and promote meaningful spaces. Diana received a B.A. in biology and fine art from K.

The Hornet Hive converged on the annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America in Phoenix, in November. Pictured from left are Nicki Bailey ’21, Sandra Lìzarraga ’21, Marco Ponce ’19, Rina Talaba ’22 and Dan Hulbert ’09. Also attending the meeting were Rob Morrison ’06, Rachel Mallinger ’05, Brett Blaauw ’06 and Emily Fraser ’09 (who was accompanying Rob but is not an entomologist herself). Rob was this year’s recipient of the Early Career Innovation Award. This award honors young professionals working in the field of entomology who have demonstrated innovation within any area of specialization (research, teaching, extension, etc.). Rob received $1,000 and a plaque at the awards breakfast at the meeting. In addition, two of the students from his lab received second place in their student competitions, while a third was awarded a Rising Stars of Entomology Award and gave a talk on her research.

Colleen Leonard ’12 was elected trustee of the Kalamazoo Township board in November. She is a mid-Michigan native and a lead compensation analyst within HR operations at Stryker. During her time at K, Colleen was a dedicated member of the volleyball team, and her post-college years as a coach further refined her leadership and team-building skills.

Eric Fishman ’13 was inducted in October 2024 into the Michigan Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. A star basketball player at K, Eric takes his place alongside inductees including his father, uncle, and his grandfather, who among their athletic accomplishments were standouts at the University of Michigan.

Sean Bogue ’18 and Aly Homminga ’20 were married on October 29, 2023. The ceremony was a K College extravaganza! Represented in the wedding parties were mother of the bride Debra Farrell ’93, Lukia Artemakis ’21, Eleanor Hughes ’21 and Ynika Yuag ’21 on the bride’s side, and Kanwal Chowdhury ’18, Aidan Ives Johnson ’17, Graham Key ’16, Austen Scheer ’18 and sibling of the bride Ben Homminga ’23 on the groom’s side. The celebration took place in Traverse City, Michigan, and was attended by many K alums, Professor Emeritus Ed Menta, and retired Playhouse Company Manager Laura Livingstone-McNelis ’89. The reception featured performances by former Monkapult and Kalamadudes members and was emceed by Anders Finholt ’20. Aly and Sean “honeymooned” in Yokohama, Japan, while Sean was on a year-long English teaching contract. Since returning to the United States, the pair resides in New York City, where Aly is a theatre director and intimacy choreographer, and Sean is a video editor and content creator.

Gerald E. Rosen ’73 wrote Grand Bargain: The Inside Story of Detroit’s Dramatic Journey from Bankruptcy to Rebirth, published in October 2024 by Hour Media. The city of Detroit’s decades-long downward spiral crash-landed in bankruptcy court on July 18, 2013. Recession, decaying infrastructure, crime and competition from foreign automakers had hollowed out the city’s economic core. In Grand Bargain, Gerald—the chief mediator in the largest municipal bankruptcy in American history—tells the dramatic inside story of how Detroit was rescued from the brink of oblivion. The book can be purchased through GrandBargainBook.com, where the author of it receives a ringing endorsement from Mike Duggan, who has served as mayor of Detroit since 2014. “Gerald Rosen will go down as a very important figure in Detroit’s history,” Duggan said. “His work as mediator in the city’s bankruptcy and as architect of the Grand Bargain is a story of daring leadership, wisdom and diplomacy. He loves this city and always believed it could recover if it was given a fair shot. Ten years later, Detroit is undergoing a historic recovery, and Judge Gerald Rosen is a major part of that success.” Gerald served as a federal judge on the Eastern District of Michigan court for almost 27 years, including seven years as its chief judge. He obtained his law degree at George Washington University Law School. Gerald taught evidence at a number of law schools as an adjunct professor for 26 years and is the coauthor of two widely read law books. He is now with JAMS, the largest provider in the world of mediation, arbitration and other alternative dispute resolution services, and has mediated some of the largest civil cases in the United States. He lives in Franklin, Michigan, with his wife, Laurie.

Lawrence Pfaff ’73 recently wrote and published the book 52 Seeds: A Guide to Self-Discovery, Personal Growth and Meaningful Change. Larry is a member of the Kalamazoo College Athletic Hall of Fame, and the book is dedicated to Edward Baker, who was Larry’s head football coach at K. 52 Seeds is divided into nine chapters (Pathways), each focusing on a specific aspect of personal development. Within those Pathways, the book contains 52 thought-provoking essays (Seeds) that serve as starting points for introspection, growth and change. Readers start at the place in the book that is most appealing or intriguing to them. These Seed essays are not meant to be prescriptive nor conclusive, but rather serve as starting points to explore topics such as self-acceptance, mindset, human connection and resilience while gaining valuable insights into one’s own motivation and ability to make conscious choices to live a more fulfilling life. The book is a compilation of Larry’s wisdom after 40-plus years as a counselor and psychology professor. It is available on Amazon, and more information can be found at Amazon.com/author/lpfaff.

Randy H. Morse ’76 retired from his position as a research scientist at the Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, in July 2022. His first retirement project was to finish a book on chromatin structure and function, the topic on which he spent the bulk of his scientific career. The result, Chromatin: Structure, Function, and History, has been published by Academic Press. Chromatin refers to the assemblage of proteins and DNA that exists in organisms whose cells have nuclei (like ours, and unlike those of bacteria); the proteins that are central to this packaging of the genetic material have been found over the last 30 years to play important roles in gene regulation and other cellular processes involving DNA. The book summarizes the research, beginning with the first isolation of DNA in 1869, that has led to our current understanding of chromosomal structure and function. Apart from this project, Randy and his wife, Sue, who recently retired from her research position, have kept busy with travel, tennis, reading for pleasure and visiting their adult children, who are currently living in Brooklyn. Randy is emeritus professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, at the University at Albany.

Jared M. Ragusett ’00 recently published Understanding the Great Recession: A Pluralist Approach to US Capitalism in the 21st Century. An associate professor of economics at Central Connecticut State University, Jared describes the book as both a textbook on the Great Recession and a tribute to his education in heterodox economics and pluralist economic thought, which began at K. The book uses the Great Recession as a case study for understanding economic concepts, the conduct of policymaking and competing schools of economic thought. Divided into four parts, the book begins by introducing readers to the headline events of the crisis and the major differences between neoclassical and heterodox economics. The second part investigates the lead-up to the crisis, beginning with the long-term restructuring of capitalism following the Great Depression, the housing market bubble, and the transmission of the 2008 financial crisis. The third part investigates the policy responses to the crisis. The final part analyzes economic performance, the shift toward populism, and policy developments, providing the basis for understanding the long-term trajectory of capitalism today.

Becca McMurdie ’07 published her debut children’s book, Building A Beak: How a Toucan’s Rescue Inspired the World. The picture book, which follows the true story of an injured toucan named Grecia in Costa Rica who received a prosthetic beak and inspired legal protection of the rainforest, was published by Page Street Kids in June 2024. According to Booklist, “This cheerful, happy-ending STEM selection, with applications for both animal conservation and problem-solving units, makes a great read-aloud.” Becca is an elementary school principal in New York City by day. At night, she researches and writes children’s books. She takes trips to climb up mountains, hike through rainforests, and swim in oceans and lakes. While living in Costa Rica for two months, she learned of Grecia’s story from a local ornithologist and visited Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in Alajuela to conduct interviews with the rescue team.

Aaron Coleman ’09 had his translation of AfroCuban poet Nicolás Guillén’s The Great Zoo (El gran zoo) published by the University of Chicago Press. “Coleman’s pitch-perfect translation comes to us at just the right time, with its themes as relevant now as when the book was originally published in 1967,” writes Rosa Alcalá, Phoenix Poets consulting editor and author of YOU. “Through The Great Zoo, a guide describes what is being held captive in each cage, including a series of archetypes, places, abstractions and things—moneylenders, the Caribbean, Ursa Major, orators and atomic bombs. The cages allow for interrogation of destructive, racist and absurd colonialist ideologies, and these poems vibrate with the possibility of an uprising, the dismantling of order. Adeptly echoing Guillén’s sly discourse around race, Coleman recovers a work by one of the most important Hispanophone writers of the 20th century.” Aaron joined the faculty at the University of Michigan as assistant professor of English and comparative literature in the Helen Zell M.F.A. Writers’ Program in fall 2024.

P.S. Other print subscribers who would like to switch exclusively to the online magazine, or who are not currently receiving BeLight, can also share their preferences at info@kzoo.edu.

Ruthellen (Smith) McCurley ’53 on October 26, 2024, in Kalamazoo. Ruthellen taught piano at home and at Kalamazoo College. In 1953, Ruthellen was united in marriage to Rollin “Ron” McCurley. Ruthellen shared her musical talent and abilities as past president of the Kalamazoo Area Music Teachers Association and as the music director, pianist and organist as well as a lifelong member of the Kalamazoo Community of Christ Church. She enjoyed many hobbies, such as playing the piano, ballroom dancing with Ron, reading novels, traveling, fishing and daily walks. Surviving Ruthellen are two children; four grandchildren, including Valerie Cochran ’02; and four great-grandchildren.

Evelyn (Biek) Davis ’54 on January 16, 2025. At K, Evelyn earned a degree in English and met a dashing young man, Don Davis ’55, who became her life’s love and partner. Evelyn and Don married in 1955, and Evelyn worked as a teacher until the arrival of their first child in 1956. By 1966, they settled in East Lansing with their four children. Evelyn’s children grew up with stories of life at K: smuggling trays from Saga to slide down the hill on the quad; driving to town in “Black Beauty,” a vintage Packard sedan owned by roommate Billie Jo Tanner ’54; visiting hours on Sunday afternoons at Trowbridge women’s dorm—doors open!—under the watchful eye of housemother Mrs. Mordhorst; and required chapel every Friday. She and Don formed friendships at K that lasted her entire life. Evelyn and Don shared extraordinary travel experiences, among them New Zealand, South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya, where they celebrated their 80th birthdays. Evelyn’s favorite destination of all, however, was their cottage on Long Lake, the family gathering place. She kept track of four small children during Don’s medical education and later volunteered at the kids’ schools, cheered at swimming meets, and attended music recitals, choir concerts, plays and graduations. Evelyn belonged to AAUW, was secretary of the Ingham County Medical Society Women’s Auxiliary and, later, the State Society’s treasurer; she was an elder of The People’s Church, and board member of several organizations dedicated to helping families and children. Evelyn and Don relied on one another throughout their lives together in a true partnership. Leaving her much too soon was beloved son John Davis. Surviving are three children, including Susan Davis ’83; eight grandchildren (some of whom lovingly call her “Grandmuffin”); their spouses; and seven great-grandchildren.

Charles True Goodsell ’54 on November 24, 2024. After graduating from K, Charles served in the U.S. Army Counter Intelligence Corps in Berlin, after which he became an intern at the Bureau of the Budget in Washington, D.C. Newly married, he went on to receive a Ph.D. in political science from Harvard University in 1961, beginning his long and distinguished academic career. A resident of Blacksburg, Virginia, since 1978, Charles was a professor at Virginia Tech for the Center of Public Administration and Policy for 24 years and served as director from 1986–91. He retired from teaching in 2002, becoming professor emeritus. His lifelong love of learning, teaching, writing and inspiring others led him to publish 12 books, 90 scholarly articles and two dozen book chapters and speak at over 50 public engagements. His dear wife, Mary Elizabeth Goodsell, died in 2019. He is survived by two daughters, a son-in-law and five grandchildren.

Margaret (Wong) Hwang ’55 on December 23, 2024, in Evansville, Indiana. Margaret was born in Yangon, Myanmar (formerly known as Rangoon, Burma). During World War II, her family fled to southern China, where she finished high school. In 1951, she moved to the United States to study at Kalamazoo College, where she earned her degree in biochemistry. Margaret worked as a lab technician after graduation. She married Yu-Tang Hwang in 1961 and enjoyed being a homemaker once her children were born. In 1968, Yu-Tang’s work moved them to Clinton, Iowa, where her children grew up. Later, they moved to Shorewood, Illinois, when Yu-Tang was transferred for his work. They moved to Evansville in 2007, after her husband retired, to be close to their eldest daughter. Margaret enjoyed cooking for her family, singing in her church choir, doing various arts and crafts, bird watching with her husband and traveling all over the world. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years. Margaret is survived by three daughters and two grandchildren.

Robert Charles Bellinger ’57 on September 11, 2024, in Long Beach, California.

Victor Landeryou ’57 on August 20, 2024, in Wardsboro, Vermont.

Carole (Oliver) Shick ’57 on November 1, 2024. Carole received her teaching degree from Kalamazoo College. She moved to Beaverton, Oregon, in 1965, and met Donald Edward Shick, the love of her life. They were married on February 14, 1969. She worked most of her 30-plus year career in the Beaverton School District as a teacher and librarian. Carole’s love of her community led her to serve eight years on the Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District Board, followed by eight years as a Beaverton city councilor. She loved her cats, quilting, gardening, doing puzzles and reading to her grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grandma with the books.” Carole was preceded in death by her husband, Don. She is survived by her six sons, 16 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Ronald Nelson Kilgore ’58 on January 19, 2025. Ron graduated from K and the American Bankers Association National Trust School. He worked at First National Bank, started the trust department at Industrial State Bank, and worked at American National Bank for 19 years before starting the trust operations at Arcadia Bank. In 1997, he was approached to help create a new Michigan Chartered Bank that would focus on fiduciary and wealth management services only. Out of that relationship and collaboration was born Greenleaf Trust. Ron served as chief executive officer and senior trust officer, secretary of the board of directors, and secretary of the trust committee. Upon his retirement in 2023, he was appointed senior executive vice president, senior trust officer emeritus and board of director emeritus. He was a man of high integrity and remained humble through his many accomplishments. Ron was selfless and lived a life of service. He served honorably in the U.S. Army. He was affiliated with the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum (Air Zoo) since its inception. Ron served as trustee of the Dorothy U. Dalton Foundation, the Suzanne U.D. Parish Foundation and the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation. He was past president of the Gull Lake Country Club and a member and longtime treasurer of the Kalamazoo Rotary Club. Ron was a self-taught and avid sailor and a passionate and qualified golfer. Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 46 years, Suzanne “Suzy” Kilgore. He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Richard Charles Newberg ’58 on October 23, 2024. Dick attended Kalamazoo College for a year. He was a member of the tennis team (defeated then-top ranked Notre Dame) and the freshman basketball team, before transferring to the University of Mississippi, where he was the first tennis player awarded an athletic scholarship. Upon graduating with a degree in accounting, Dick accepted a job in Little Rock, Ark., and later earned his CPA designation. Eventually, he opened his own private practice. Dick often joked that his “boss had a lenient inclement weather policy,” which was his way of saying he was going to play tennis. Dick was a member of the Little Rock Racquet Club for many years, serving on the Board of Directors. Another of Dick’s passions was fly fishing. In 1977, he played an instrumental role in stocking the Little Red River with brown trout. The fish tales and stories of his athletic accomplishments escalated in 2009, as Dick’s high school basketball team was inducted into the Mason County, Michigan, Sports Hall of Fame. His “legend” grew in 2018, when his tennis team was inducted into the Kalamazoo College Athletic Hall of Fame. He became a published author in 2023, with a book about his grandfather’s heroic act in the stormy waters of Lake Michigan. Dick is survived by Sandy, his wife of 47 years; two children; and four grandchildren.

Jon M. Clapp ’59 on November 16, 2024. Jon entered General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) to pursue engineering, then continued at Kalamazoo College for a B.A. in philosophy. He earned a Master of Divinity at Oberlin College and a master’s in guidance and counseling from Wayne State University. He served as an ordained minister in the United Methodist churches of Nardin Park, Farmington Hills, Michigan; Lola Valley, Redford, Michigan; and Clarkston, Michigan, where he served from 1972–2006. He was a dedicated caseworker for Oakland County Juvenile Court from 1973–98. He was a caring and creative person who read extensively, sang in the Oakland Community Chorus, and was self-taught in classical music, photography, woodworking, macrame, painting and astronomy. Jon loved traveling with his family and spending time at their cottage in northern Michigan. Jon will be remembered for his faith, patience, kindness and good humor. Jon was the devoted husband for 61 years to Karen Baird Clapp, beloved father to two daughters and grandfather to three.

Ralph Edward Kenyon ’59 on September 17, 2024. Ed was married to Carole G. Kenyon for 59 years. They were named in their St. Clair High School yearbook as “cutest couple” and dated all through college while attending different Michigan colleges until they married. Ed had lived in Port Charlotte, Florida, since 1991. An avid outdoorsman, Ed grew up waterfowl hunting and fishing and loved fishing Charlotte Harbor for snook and redfish. Ed’s entire professional career was spent with the former General Foods, now Kraft Heinz, where he earned multiple patents, including a first for freeze-dried fruit in cereal, Shake ‘N Bake coating, Stove Top stuffing and JELL-O products. Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carole, in 2019. He is survived by his son, daughter and two grandchildren.

Allan M. Payson ’59 on August 26, 2024.

Norman Bruce Douglas ’60 on November 14, 2024. Norman studied and played football at Kalamazoo College and then earned a B.A. from Western Michigan University. Norm was a skilled machinist and metrologist, and he carried those abilities into the classrooms where he was regarded as a great instructor by his students. He built a distinguished career, contributing significantly to Kalamazoo Valley Community College, WMU School of Engineering, General Motors, Body by Fisher Division, and the Kellogg Company. At GM, he helped to institute a Learning Center. In 2010, he was awarded the first ever Outstanding Service designation for his instructional service to the WMU Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering. Norm is survived by his spouse, Judith Zahn Douglas; a daughter; a son; and two granddaughters.

Alfred John “Red” Gemrich ’60 on September 28, 2024, at home in Delton, Michigan. Al received a master’s degree from Western Michigan University, and his J.D. from Yale University. He practiced more than 59 years as an attorney in the Kalamazoo area, including the last 12 years from his home. Al loved being in nature, hunting and living on his 235-acre farm. He served on the Kalamazoo College Board of Trustees from 1975–93. Al married Jean M. Pease on February 1, 1975. Al was preceded in death by two stepsons, Greg and Mark Pease. He is survived by his wife, Jean; his children, Alexander Gemrich ’83 (Sarah Crittenden ’83), Anna Gemrich ’86, and Andrew Gemrich ’90; two stepsons, including Adam Pease ’90; 17 grandchildren, including Cameron Schneberger ’15, Maxwell Schneberger ’18 and Zoe Schneberger ’22; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Donald S. McClure ’60 on August 23, 2024, in Novi, Michigan. Don spent two years as a math major at Wesleyan University before transferring to K as an English major. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa and earned a master’s degree from Western Michigan University and a Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. Don taught at Sparta High School in Sparta, Michigan, for three years and at Indiana University of Pennsylvania for 33 years, where he was chair of the English department for the last five years. He credited his Kalamazoo College time in Germany for inspiring him to host eight high school exchange students over the years. Don actively supported local recycling group Pollution Solution and his children’s interest in swimming. Always interested in cars, he built a yellow Sebring kit car using a Mustang Cobra chassis. Don taught himself carpentry after he and his wife, Susan, bought a small cottage on Crockery Lake in Conklin, Michigan, and discovered half the floor was rotten. Over the years, he built garages, remodeled their home in Pennsylvania, and built furniture as well as a 12-by-22-foot model train layout. He enjoyed his summers on Lake Michigan salmon fishing. A member at Trinity United Methodist Church, he shared teaching the Good Samaritan Class and sang in the choir. After retirement, Don and Susan traveled to all the continents; saw elephants, Hadrian’s Wall, Notre Dame and a monastery in the sky; flew over Victoria Falls; and used the London tube. Don is survived by his wife, Susan; three children; five grandchildren; and his sister, Joan McClure Post ’67.

E. Joyce Coryell ’61 on July 5, 2024.

Jane Catherine (Ayers) Walsh ’61 on April 4, 2023. Jane taught in the Ida, Michigan, school system for two years and was a research assistant at Michigan State University for 37 years before her retirement in 2002. She was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and P.E.O. Sisterhood Chapter AG. She was blessed to have traveled to all the places on her wish list in the United States and abroad. Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; son Steve; and sister Liz. She is survived by her son Greg; three grandchildren; and two sisters, including Mary Stockard ’63.

Arthur Page Hartman ’62 on December 10, 2024. A modern-day polymath, he was previously sighted elbow-deep in hydraulics with his tie slung over his shoulder, deep in a quiet wood with a shotgun in the crook of his arm, asleep beneath an intimidating nonfiction publication or ankle-deep in his woodshop sawdust. He graduated from South Haven High School and went on to earn a degree in botany from Michigan State University. His career in regional sales of automotive industry hydraulics meant he knew every road, lane and sleeper-hit restaurant in Southwestern Michigan and Northern Indiana, but what he lived for were his garden, orchids, peonies, hunting and woodworking. He married Patricia King in 1965, and they celebrated 59 years together, traveling and gardening side by side. They made their first home in Sandusky, Michigan, before settling in Mattawan. Simultaneously able to build ornate pieces of antique-reproduction furniture by hand, solve complex physics problems, create new variant peony hybrids, explore ecosystems of Peruvian jungle butterfly species and discuss details of early steam locomotives and their expansion westward, his quest for learning knew no bounds. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his son; his daughter; and his granddaughter.

Gary P. Corpron ’63 on July 19, 2024.

John Martin Grandin ’63 on November 18, 2024. John received an M.A. in teaching from Wesleyan University and a Ph.D. in Germanic studies from the University of Michigan. His 40 years of service at the University of Rhode Island (URI) began in the German department in 1970. John created the German Summer School of the Atlantic to prepare students for study abroad, established a cross-disciplinary forum for engineering, and served as associate dean of students and curriculum, followed by acting dean of arts and science. John helped establish and direct the International Engineering Program (IEP) at URI, was co-chair of the IEP Advisory Board for many years and kept in contact with former students during travels to Germany, France, Italy, Spain and China. A living and learning house for IEP students was named for John. The Federal Republic of Germany awarded John its highest civilian honor for his service in transatlantic relations between the United States and Germany—the Bundesverdienstkreuz, the Federal Cross of Merit. In 2019, John was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Engineering from URI. He was a member of the Kingston Congregational Church for many years and a deacon. John loved to be at the family cottage in Ocean Park, Maine, for a walk to the beach, a swim in the cold Atlantic, body surfing and long walks at low tide. John balanced silliness with tenderness and support for his family. John was very proud of his Swedish heritage. He appreciated the mechanics and design of antique cars and trucks. His Lewy body dementia was difficult to observe but he handled his disease with dignity. John is survived by Carol, his wife of 59 years; a son; a daughter; and three grandchildren.

Gary Wild ’65 on October 30, 2024, peacefully in his home in Hawaii, surrounded by his children. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lee Summers Wild ’65.

Susan Ruth (Cope) Ekstrom ’68 on December 6, 2024, in St. Ignace, Michigan. Susan’s academic journey was a testament to her lifelong passion for learning. Susan graduated cum laude from K and was one of three Upper Peninsula students to receive the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. A fierce supporter of all women, while at graduate school at Michigan State University, Susan co-founded the Consumer Task Force on the Childbearing Year, an educational support group for new parents. After graduating with her first master’s degree in philosophy, Susan began her job as a legislative analyst at the Michigan House of Representatives in Lansing, Michigan, where she worked until retiring to complete her second master’s degree in social work from the University of Michigan. Susan was a beloved wife, mother and friend, whose curiosity, intellect and compassion left a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to know her. She is survived by her husband and high school sweetheart, Maurice Ekstrom, with whom she shared a loving partnership for more than 60 years; her son; and her daughter.

Donald Gooding Mason Jr. ’68 on November 4, 2024. Don attended Kalamazoo College, Indiana University Bloomington and Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, where he attained his bachelor’s degree. He continued his education over the years at Trine University. Don began his career as a draftsman for John Doyle and Associates. He then worked for the Indiana Department of Transportation from 1989–2005. He transferred to the Steuben County Surveyors Office and finished his career as a land surveyor and civil engineer, retiring in 2020. He was a member of Angola Congregational Church, where he sang in the choir. Surviving are his former spouse, Jill; two sons; and two grandchildren.

Mark B. Severs ’69 on November 12, 2024. Mark earned a master’s in English literature from the University of Rochester and his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida College of Law, where he met his wife, Nancie. They were married in 1977. Mark and Nancie first lived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where Mark quickly became a successful planning and zoning attorney, and their three sons were born. In 1989, the family moved to Hanover, New Hampshire. In addition to becoming a licensed member of the New Hampshire and Vermont bar associations, Mark became a Certified Financial Planner and worked as a wealth management consultant, remaining with the same firm for 25-plus years before retiring in 2018. Mark and Nancie lived in Hanover until 2010, when they moved to Lebanon, New Hampshire. Mark served the town of Hanover as trustee of trust funds and a member of the Hanover Planning Board. He also served as treasurer of the Grafton County United Way. Always inquisitive, reading and learning, Mark loved sports and played tennis his entire life. In July 2023, he was competitive in a tournament just weeks before he was diagnosed with the nonsmall cell lung cancer that would ultimately end his life. Kindred souls from the time they met in a legal ethics class, Nancie and Mark enriched each other’s lives. Mark embraced parenthood with joy and took great comfort in seeing the responsible adults his sons became. He adored his grandsons. In addition to traveling for tennis, Mark and Nancie explored Hawaii, Peru and Machu Picchu, the Galapagos and Belize, Thailand and Myanmar. Mark is survived by his wife, Nancie; three sons; and three grandchildren.

Thomas W. Thackara ’69 on October 2, 2024. Tom grew up in Kalamazoo and received a B.A. in German. He was awarded an M.A. in education from Middlebury College in Vermont, where he met his wife, the former Regina DiRienzo. Tom loved being a teacher and held several positions in the Midwest, including at the Howe Military School, Howe, Indiana. He relocated to Kingston, Pennsylvania, in 1979 to teach German and math at Wyoming Seminary and retired from his teaching career at G.A.R. High School in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. He also taught at King’s College, Wilkes University and briefly at Head Start. He was employed for several years as an insurance agent with Mass Mutual Life Insurance Co. Tom was a member of St. Ignatius Loyola Parish, Kingston. He was an avid photographer and member and former president of the Wyoming Valley Camera Club. He was also a member of the Cultural Heritage Council of the National Environmental Policy Act. Throughout his life, Tom was involved with swimming, including as a swimming and diving coach, and took pride in his many years as a swim official, both at the District 2 and state levels. Tom also became a Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins hockey fan and seldom missed a home game. In addition to his wife of 50 years, Tom is survived by two sons and two grandchildren.

Eugene Roger Blue Jr. ’72 on December 17, 2024. Eugene received a scholarship to Kalamazoo College. While completing his degree from K, he studied abroad in Sierra Leone, West Africa, for six months. He showed interest in a wide array of disciplines at K and graduated with a degree in psychology. He found his calling in earning a Ph.D. in accounting and business administration from Michigan State University in 1997. While finishing his degree at MSU, he taught classes and achieved recognition for his participation in the Doctoral Consortium of the American Accounting Association. His accomplishments led him to a professorship at Governors State University in University Park, Illinois, from 1995–2000. In 1995, Eugene had a golf date with a college friend, Gregory Cleveland ’74, and his wife, Gloria. They introduced him to Ms. Joshlyn (Simmons) Williams, Gloria’s sister. Eugene and Joshlyn were married the next year. He became a great, loving and kind bonus father to Joshlyn’s children, Haley and Jonathan. The Williams-Blue family moved to Washington, D.C., in 2000. Eugene taught at Howard University from 2000–08, where he received the 2005 Faculty of the Year Award, and at George Mason University from 2010–14, Bowie State University in 2015, and Catholic University from 2015–16 before retiring. He was known for his personable character, intellectual wit and jovial humor. He enjoyed travel and good friends. Eugene leaves his wife, Joshlyn Williams-Blue, his stepchildren, and a host of friends and family to cherish his memory.

Martha “Mickey” Byrnes ’72 on September 23, 2024, following a fall in her home in Los Angeles. Mickey graduated from Kalamazoo College, which included study abroad in Liberia, Africa. She earned a graduate degree in library science from the University of Denver, then a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in Los Angeles. As a law librarian, she worked at the University of Utah Law School for three years before becoming the head of the research department at the U.S. Supreme Court Library in Washington, D.C. Her job brought her in contact with many political figures of the day. She even took exercise classes with Sandra Day O’Connor. Mickey married Christopher Markey in 1988 and moved to downtown Los Angeles. She worked as a staff attorney for the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in Pasadena. Mickey and Chris were frequent travelers to Ireland and Scotland to play golf. Her 26th floor apartment overlooked the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, and she could look down on the Academy Awards crowds. Horses were Mickey’s passion. For many years, she volunteered to groom and ride horses at both Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles police equestrian stables. Mickey was a lifelong Democrat and avidly supported Kamala Harris.  

Kenneth Frederick Winter ’74, of Safety Harbor, Florida, on August 28, 2024.

Kenneth Lyle Hill ’76 on November 2, 2024, in St. Paul, Minnesota, after a long struggle with complications from myasthenia gravis. Kenneth received a degree in speech and theatre from K and an M.F.A. at Trinity University in Texas. He remained deeply committed to his home state of Wisconsin. He tried to never miss a Green Bay Packers game; he found joy in Wisconsin’s nature; and he loved attending outdoor shows at the American Players Theater. Kenneth spent over 30 years as a theatre professor at the University of Wisconsin Fond du Lac and then Ripon College. At Ripon, Kenneth helped develop an exceptional liberal arts theatre program, along with his wife, Susan (McDaniel) Hill ’76, and colleagues. To many students, he was a mentor, a parent away from home, and a supporting presence when it was most needed. He also founded and then ran the Ripon Summer Players for over 20 years. He touched countless lives through his dedication, care, brilliant imagination and sense of humor. He was a gifted director, teacher, actor and singer. Kenneth’s love of teaching was only surpassed by his love of his family. Kenneth was always in attendance at his daughters’ concerts, dance recitals and plays, and was available at any hour of the day to offer advice, guidance and encouragement. He and Susan prioritized family by including their daughters in preparation for productions at Ripon College and looked forward to traveling to the Keweenaw Peninsula every summer with family. Later in life, Kenneth moved to Minneapolis to be closer to his two grandsons. He was surrounded by those he loved the most: his wife and partner in everything, Susan, and his two children and their spouses. He is also survived by two beloved grandchildren and his mother.

Robert Nevin Sinsheimer ’77 on October 5, 2024. Bob studied math and sociology at K, later earning a master’s in statistics at the University of Michigan. After arriving in Washington, D.C., for a job with the Census Bureau, Bob spent almost his entire career working for the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Bob retired in 2010 from his role as chief of the office of IT security, then moved to Pittsburgh in 2014 to be near his son following the death of his wife, Gretchen Guelde ’77. An avid DIY-er and devoted family man, Bob was also a lover of music, games and good beer. An easygoing soul and good friend to those who knew him, he will be missed by all. He is survived by three children and seven grandchildren.

Susan M. Smoley ’77 on November 12, 2024. Susan studied economics and public policy at K, achieving Phi Beta Kappa honors. Upon graduating, Susan attended Essex University, United Kingdom in 1978 as a Rotary scholar. She then worked as an economist and project manager for the Army Corps of Engineers for 24 years while also earning an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago in 1989. Susan was deeply ingrained in the Orthodox Christian community, participating in Bible studies, choir, charity organizations, pilgrimages and conferences, especially the Saint Phoebe Center for the Holy Deaconess. Her faith and the community it fostered gave her the strength to live a full life during her courageous four-year battle with cancer. She met her husband, Peter Delgado, while studying at Essex University, and they were married in 1981 in Detroit. For over 43 years, Susan and Peter loved to travel, explore new experiences and engage in meaningful conversations with friends from all walks of life. Susan will be remembered for her devoted faith, ambition and kindness. She was a devoted wife and friend to Peter, and a loving mother to their son.

Daniel Patrick Morris ’81 on January 6, 2025, of a glioblastoma brain tumor. Dan was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, then began a global adventure with his family by moving to Indianapolis; Toronto; London; Florence, Italy; and along the way Dan explored dozens of other countries. Seeking his family roots, Dan returned to Michigan to attend Kalamazoo College. Following a misadventure where he inadvertently set fire to a dorm, Dan transferred to Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he successfully graduated without burning it to the ground. Dan was a store rep for Walgreens headquarters in Chicago, worked for a year in Rome, then opened two restaurants on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Following that, he managed Exxon’s operations on the island. Returning stateside, he became a neon artist in Grand Rapids, then helped “Keep Austin Weird” by being part of a team designing modernist, award-winning homes. Dan moved to Thailand, then Lithuania, before returning to Grand Rapids to reconnect with family. Everywhere he went he was a thriving artist and a consummate explorer of curiosities. Dan studied Arabic in Cairo, ran with the bulls in Pamplona, witnessed the sun setting over the Great Wall of China, gave guided tours of the demilitarized zone in Korea, volunteered at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand, salvaged Soviet art from abandoned factories in Lithuania and much more. His final trip was to Cuba, where he reveled in his love for quality dark rum and discovered a passion for hand-rolled cigars. He was married five times, saying it was because he was a die-hard romantic.

Patrice Renee Fields ’04 on October 5, 2024.

Todd Jack Robosan ’06 on October 24, 2024, peacefully in his sleep in Philadelphia. Todd earned a B.A. in psychology with a minor in religion and studied abroad in France, where he stayed on to teach English for an additional year. He then traveled to Granada, West Indies, and attended St. George’s University with a focus on public health. Todd moved to Washington, D.C., and was a principal consultant working with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Todd was passionate about public health and enjoyed making a significant impact in his work, especially during the COVID-19 epidemic. Todd had multifaceted interests—a lover of books as well as sports. Todd was involved in soccer, diving, tennis and theatre in high school. In college, Todd was a member of the K Diving Team. He was an avid flag football player and a volunteer at an equestrian center where he shared his love for horses and worked with children. His culinary abilities were unsurpassed, and his cooking and baking skills were enjoyed by all. Todd is survived by his parents and half siblings and his loyal companion, Rye.

Faculty, Staff and Friends of the College

Susanne Marie Gibson on January 4, 2025, at her home in Kalamazoo after a brief but valiant battle with cancer. Sue began her career at K in 1987 as the music and chemistry secretary. She held various administrative roles, including personnel manager and administrative assistant to the provost, until her retirement in 2017. Sue played an instrumental role in maintaining the operations of the provost’s office. During her time at K, she forged many deep and meaningful friendships, particularly her close bond with her dear friend Carol Kennedy. Susanne volunteered her spare time to the PTA at her daughters’ schools, Girl Scouts, March of Dimes, the United Way and anywhere else she could make a difference. She was a generous person, always putting others before herself. Susanne was a lifelong reader, classic movie lover, gardener, excellent baker, pie-maker and a talented seamstress. She found immense joy in spending time with her four grandchildren, and she welcomed her bonus grandchild into the family with love. As Nana, she enjoyed sharing pool days, baking lessons, games and concerts, board games, trips to the library and bookstores, crafting and holiday meals. She loved family trips to Binder Park Zoo to feed the giraffes. She was a devoted pet owner and loved her dogs and granddogs. Susanne was preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Gibson. She is survived by her two daughters and her grandchildren.

Jon A. Reeves on December 15, 2024, after a year-long journey with glioblastoma. Jon came to K as director of technical theatre in 2005 and served in various roles in the theatre and physical education departments until his retirement in 2022. His final exam for Stagecraft became his students’ hardest exam, something he was immensely proud of, all because of the knot tying. Jon designed and built hundreds of shows for area theatres and was a well-known blacksmith and metal artist who mentored many K students in the art of metal working. He was the owner of Combat Ready Art, a blacksmithing studio in downtown Kalamazoo. It was in the forge, seven years ago, that Jon met the love of his life, Jutta, when her son, Adam, started taking blacksmithing classes. Jon and Jutta were a love story for the ages. They showed each other that you didn’t have to change to be unconditionally loved. Jutta learned everything Jon would teach. And Jon would go along to photoshoots with Jutta and hold lights or umbrellas. Jon was a fixture in Kalamazoo, especially on the Kalamazoo Mall. He was often seen on the corner of South Street in front of the cigar shop, tattoos done by his dear friend Raven on full display, guitar in hand, playing music, not for money, but just to play. Jon lived a thousand lifetimes in his 62 years. His influence will live on in the physical art he created that can be seen throughout Kalamazoo, and, most especially, in the lives he changed, the skills he taught, and the unexpected paths he sent people on. Jon is survived by his wife, Jutta (Wilberding); his three stepchildren; his cats; cousins; lifelong friends; and the communities he created in theatre and the forge.