Robert Fadeley Passes Away

Robert Fadeley, retired professor of psychology, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 3.  He had been under hospice care for a number of weeks prior to his death. A memorial service will be held for him in Arizona.

Passing of Gatha Williams, Mother of Inez Reyes

Gatha Williams, the mother of Inez Reyes, Administrative Assistant in the Office of Human Resources, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2013.  Services will be on Friday, November 29 at 11:00am at the South Nashville Seventh-day Adventist Church on 244 Tusculum Road in Antioch, Tennessee.

Please continue to keep Inez and her family in your prayers during this difficult time.
 

Students' Father Passes Away

Alex Vargas, father of two current Andrews University students, passed away suddenly on Sunday, Oct. 27. Services were held Friday, Nov. 1. Click here to read his obituary.

Geri Neidigh Passes Away

Geri Neidigh, mother-in-law of Walt Williams, a recent retiree from the Seminary, and mother of Carol Williams, a retired employee of the Center for Adventist Research, passed away October 12. Read her full obituary here.

Neil and Tina (Nedelcu) Carruthers Pass Away

Neil Carruthers, 34, and his wife, Tina (Nedelcu), passed away within hours of each other in August. Neil was a graduate of Andrews University. Read the full story here.

Roger Vitrano Passed Away

Roger Steven Vitrano passed away Sept. 2, 2013.  A memorial service will be held on Oct. 19 at 4 p.m. in Orrison Chapel of Andrews Academy in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Interment will occur at Rose Hill Cemetery in Berrien Springs where Roger will be buried next to his parents. Online messages may be left at allredfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in his name be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Click here for the full obituary. 

Help Verlyn Benson

Verlyn Benson (former Dean of College of Technology and now Assistant to Provost and President) has been stricken with a rare and very serious form of liver cancer.  The tumor is large and invasive.  He is going to Mayo Clinic weekly for chemo treatments and blood work.  This is expensive and there have been a number of requests from those who would like to help with his heavy travel costs.  On a website for donations, “Give Forward”, a page has been set up for contributing to Verlyn’s expenses:  http://gfwd.at/1d8Cy9e.  He also is blogging at:  http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/verlynbenson.  (You may make donations to the Caring Bridge but they are to support that website and not Verlyn’s medical travel expenses.)

Contact: Becky St. Clair  agenda@andrews.edu 

Category: Life Stories

Father of Student Passes Away

The father of Mwaka Chambwa, a student from Zambia, passed away last week. Mwaka is a student in the seminary (MDiv) and has requested that the campus keep his family in our prayers during this very difficult time.
 

Funeral Arrangements for Judy Chittick

Judy Chittick, wife of Tom Chittick (recently retired chair of the Department of Agriculture), passed to her rest Sunday evening, Sept. 1, after a brief battle with brain cancer.

Visitation will take place at Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs on Wednesday, Sept. 4, between 6-8 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Pioneer Memorial Church on Thursday, Sept. 5, at 2 p.m., followed by interment at Rose Hill Cemetery.

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Adventist Frontier Missions. Please remember the Chittick family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Funeral Arrangements for Nancy Miller

Nancy Miller, administrative assistant for the Department of Teaching, Learning & Curriculum in the School of Education, died on Friday, August 23, after a short battle with cancer. She had worked at Andrews University since 1986.

Viewing is at Allred’s Funeral Home on Thursday, August 29, from 6–8 p.m. Her funeral service will take place on Friday, August 30, at 1 p.m. at the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church. Please remember her son, Zachary, and extended family members during this difficult time.

Death of Joyce Augsburger

Joyce Pammel Augsburger, 93, of Berrien Springs, died at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, Mich., on August 25, 2013, after a heart attack three days before. Joyce was the wife of Daniel Augsburger, long-time faculty member at Andrews University. A memorial service is scheduled for Sabbath, Oct. 12, 4 p.m., at the PMC Youth Chapel. Memorials may be given to Your Story Hour. Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs is entrusted with arrangements, and online messages may be left at www.allredfuneralhome.com.

Edwin F. Buck

Edwin F. Buck, Jr., 92, passed away on August 5, 2013, at Woodland Terrace of Longmeadow, Niles, Mich., after several years of declining health.  A person of many interests, his priorities were his teaching and students, airplanes and flying, photography, the church, and family and friends.  Buck received a bachelor’s degree in theology and a master’s degree in counseling and guidance from Andrews University.  A private graveside service is planned.

Contact: Becky St. Clair  agenda@andrews.edu 

Category: Life Stories

100th Birthday Reception for Betty Garber

August 11, 2013
2 p.m.
Chan Shun Hall

The family of Betty Garber invites her University friends and acquaintances to join her for a video presentation chronicling her life followed by a reception honoring her 100th birthday beginning at 2 p.m. in Chan Shun Hall on Sunday, August 11.   

Betty has been associated with Andrews University for more than 60 years as a Berrien Springs resident, the wife of a University administrator, and through her support of students attending the University by providing both funds and housing. Her late husband, V.E. Garber, served as the chief financial officer at Andrews University from 1953 to 1976. Betty and her husband graduated from Andrews in 1935, as well as her two sons, Jim and Bill, who will be hosting the reception.

Personal greetings by card are welcome at:
P.O. Box 750755
Dayton OH 45475

Contact: Bill Garber  bill@ilsw.com 

Category: Life Stories

Digital Learning and Instructional Technology Department Expanding

School of Distance Education
Department of Digital Learning and Instructional Technology

The Digital Learning and Instructional Technology (DLiT) Department in the School of Distance Education is expanding! Samuel Villamizar joined our support team on June 17, 2013. Previously he served as Technology Director for Village Adventist Elementary School, where he was responsible for the school’s computers and network, teacher training, website support, and videoconferencing services. We are pleased to have the additional technical support he will provide.

Samuel will be providing additional technical Moodle support as the Learning Systems Administrator. Marsha Beal’s title has changed to Instructional Designer, and she will be focusing on instructional technology for on-campus courses as well as online course design. She will also continue to do Moodle training for faculty as well as other instructional technology training. Janine Lim will continue supporting Andrews University online programs as well as coordinating the Consortium of Adventist Colleges and Universities.

Contact: Becky St. Clair  agenda@andrews.edu 

Category: Life Stories

Welcome to Caleb Noe Velez

Caleb Noe Velez was born May 29, 2013, at 7 lbs 10 oz, and 21 inches. His proud parents are Maria Velez, payroll supervisor (Office of Human Resources), and Noe Velez, groundskeeper supervisor (Office of the Arboretum). Congratulations to Maria and Noe!

Mother of Linda Brinegar Died May 20

Wanda Lee Easley, 73 of Harvey, N.D., died on Monday, May 20, 2013 at her home. She was the mother of Linda Brinegar, executive chef, Andrews University Dining Services. Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 23, 2013 at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Harvey. For lifesketch visit the following link:

http://hertzfuneralhomes.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=2095423&fh_id=12320#.UZxBJIMlxXQ.facebook

Please remember Linda and her family in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn this loss.

Wilfrida Ruiz, 91, Died May 19

Wilfrida Ruiz, 91, died at her home in Berrien Springs on Sunday, May 19, 2013. She was the mother of Willyta Ruiz-Wamack, housing coordinator for University Towers, and Luz Ruiz, administrative assistant for the School of Architecture, Art & Design.

Wilfrida dedicated her life as an Adventist educator for 31 years in her native country of Peru. She was preceded in death by her husband Esteban Clodomiro Ruiz who died in 1975. She retired in 1981 and decided to move to the U.S. to join her two daughters in Texas. In 1989 she moved to Berrien Springs, following Willyta and Douglas  Wamack who were here to pursue their studies. While at AU, she was able to fulfill her longtime dream that was postponed when she had to take care of her husband after he became ill. In 1995, at age 73, she received her master's degree in Religious Education. Wilfrida slept in Jesus at her home with both daughters at her bedside. She will be surely missed.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 24, at Pioneer Memorial Church. There will be a visitation from 12-1 p.m., with a funeral service at 1 p.m. Burial in Rose Hill Cemetery will follow. Online messages for the family may be left at www.allredfuneralhome.com. The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Architecture Missions Group for Palpa School, c/o School of Architecture, Art & Design.

Please remember Willyta, Luz and their entire family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Richard Schwarz, 87, Died May 16

Richard Schwarz, prominent Seventh-day Adventist historian, teacher and administrator, passed away last Thursday, May 16, in Hawaii. Schwarz taught at EMC and later Andrews University much of his career, specializing in the history of the Adventist Church. His book, Light Bearers to the Remnant, was published in 1980. He also served in administrative posts late in his career including a brief time as acting president of Andrews University in the early 1980s. 

The family is planning a memorial service at Pioneer Memorial Church on Sabbath, July 27, at 4 p.m. Those who wish to may send cards or notes to his wife, Joyce F. Schwarz, 44-115 Nanamoana St, Kaneohe HI 96744.

Please remember the family during this time of sorrow.

Steven P. Vitrano, Former Professor Dies on May 4

Steven P. Vitrano, emeritus professor of preaching, worship and evangelism, died on May 4, 2013, in Auburn, Calif. Vitrano served Andrews University for 40 years, from 1958-1998, as a professor of religion and philosophy, serving both in the religion department as well as the Seminary. Local services include a visitation from 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, at Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs, and a graveside service at 10 a.m. on Sunday, June 9, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Berrien Springs. Online messages may be left for his family at www.allredfuneralhome.com.

Passing of Kevin DeLeon, an Andrews Student

Kevin DeLeon, an undergraduate student, was found deceased in his University apartment Wednesday evening, March 13. Funeral services were held on March 17 at the Hinsdale Fil-Am Seventh-day Adventist Church in Hinsdale, Ill. The following is the life sketch of Kevin shared at his funeral.

Kevin DeLeon | 1989-2013

After years of waiting, hoping, and praying, an eight-year old girl named Winnelle received an early ninth birthday gift, a baby brother. At 5:08 p.m., on October 19, 1989, within the walls of Adventist Hinsdale Hospital, Kevin Roy Paulo DeLeon was welcomed into the loving arms of Winnie and Elizabeth DeLeon.

Kevin, or “Kevoy” was named in honor of both his grandparents, Roy and Paulo. Even in his name, he was firmly rooted in his family, a theme that would continue throughout his life. While growing up, Kevin had to overcome many medical obstacles such as severe episodes of asthma and food allergies. As the youngest cousin of both his mother and father’s family, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins would collectively ensure Kevin was safe. This was a challenge because he experienced allergic reactions to almost anything he ate, touched or breathed.

While he was often sick as a child, Kevin grew up to be a very strong and athletic boy. Reaching Voyager rank, he loved the outdoors since his days as a Pathfinder. He played any sport his hands could find including: baseball, tennis, football, volleyball, hockey, swimming, basketball, snowboarding, and pool. In his later years, he especially enjoyed weightlifting. The child who could be weakened by the air grew into a man of strength able to leg-press almost 700 lbs., squat 300 lbs., and was training to bench-press 300 lbs. so he could join the “300 Club” at the Andrews Men’s Health Club.

Kevin was very musically talented. Throughout his life Kevin used his talents to serve God. Often alongside his cousins, he helped lead in praise songs, performed in musicals, and sang baritone in choir. Additionally, he played trombone, guitar, piano and the drums for fun.

Through the relationship Kevin had with his father and grandfathers, Kevin learned a strong work ethic. Throughout his life he would help his dad by mowing lawns, repairing houses and helping family members whenever in need of heavy lifting. When he was 10, Kevin’s giving spirit and hard-working mentality allowed him to raise the most money for the first Illinois Conference bike-a-thon winning a rare Schwinn bike as first prize. Kevin worked as a golf caddie, physics TA, Citgo cashier and, during his time at Andrews, a greenhouse gardener. He also loved to volunteer at Camp Akita and every summer, he enjoyed working there as a staff member.

Kevin was known for being a happy and fun-loving individual. He could brighten a room with his smile, sense of humor and ability to make people feel happiness with his gentle laugh. Throughout every stage of his life, Kevin’s friends knew him to be humble, genuinely caring and limitlessly forgiving. Kevin gained an exceeding amount of friends throughout his life because behind his brown eyes, there was no judgment, count of wrongdoings, or jealousy. He often called friends for no reason other than to see how they are doing or ask “Is anything wrong? Are you sure?”

Kevin was known for his unique mannerisms and endearing habits. He would try to cover up his smile when he laughed; he would greet his friends with funny sayings from movie lines; and he never failed to say “I love you” at the end of every phone conversation with his mom. He loved his family. His older cousins can tell you that whenever he greeted them by name, it would always be preceded by ‘Ate’ or ‘Kuya,’ a sign of respect. His uncles and aunties knew him to be respectful and considerate while his nieces and nephews knew him to be fun and spontaneous Uncle Kevin. Through all periods of his life he lovingly placed the needs of his friends and family above his own without expecting anything in return.

At the funeral service for Kevin, it was shared that Kevin’s goal of completing his college degree would be fulfilled. “The Andrews University family of faculty, staff and students join you in mourning the loss Kevin. He was your son. He was our student,” said Frances Faehner, vice president for Student Life at Andrews University. She continued, “Kevin was very close to completing his studies at Andrews and was looking forward to graduating this year. Therefore the university has determined to confer his degree posthumously during our May 5, 2013 graduation. On that day he and you will have reached the first goal in his adult life: a college degree. The next goal for Kevin will reunite him with his family on the resurrection morning.”

Kevin touched all the hearts and lives of those he came in contact with. He lived his life with humility, forgiveness and love. In his short life, he brought joy to who ever he could. We will earnestly wait for the day when we can see his smiling face, hear his gentle laugh, and hold our Kevin in God’s kingdom.

If you wish to leave comments or words of support for the family, please leave a comment below.
 

Passing of Joseph Warren, Associate Professor of English

Joseph W. Warren, associate professor of English at Andrews, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 4, 2012, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Please keep the Warren family in your prayers during this very difficult time.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14, at Pioneer Memorial Church. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. until service time. Live video streaming of the service will be available for those unable to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. Joseph Warren Scholarship Fund. The fund will support English majors through scholarship or endowment. Make checks payable to Andrews University and send to the Office of Development, c/o Mary Nell Rosenboom, Griggs Hall, 8903 US Highway 31, Berrien Springs, 49104-0660. Online donations may be made at www.andrews.edu/go/give/2jwarren.

You can leave a note for the family below. Please include your name in the body of your message.

Valerie Phillips, Assistant to the Dean, Has Passed Away

Funeral Service Information for Valerie Phillips
The funeral for Dean Valerie Phillips will be at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. The service will be held in the main sanctuary of Pioneer Memorial Church. Live video streaming of the service will be available for those unable to attend.

Dean Phillips was found deceased in her home on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011. The cause of death was hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Arrangements are being handled by Allred Funeral Home.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Valerie Phillips, Assistant to the Dean, Has Passed Away
Valerie Phillips, assistant to the dean for University Towers, was found deceased in her home this morning, Wednesday, Dec. 21. The cause of death is not yet known. She was 56-years-old.

Dean Phillips dedicated 31 years of her professional career to Andrews University. She joined the Andrews family in 1980, first as an assistant dean and, since 1986, as an associate dean of women for Lamson Hall. In August of 2011, she transitioned from Lamson Hall to serve as assistant to the dean for University Towers.

Valerie graduated in 1972 from Union Springs Academy in Union Springs, N.Y. She studied behavioral science, religion and English at Atlantic Union College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1978. During college, she worked as an aide at Worcester Memorial Hospital in Worcester, Mass. In 1978, Valerie took an assistant chaplain position at Battle Creek Sanitarium and Hospital where she stayed until 1980.

In 1980, Arlene Friestad, who was then dean of women at Lamson Hall, invited Valerie to speak at the first annual Womanhood Week at Andrews. Dean Friestad was so impressed by Valerie she invited her to join the residence hall staff at Lamson Hall.

Dean Phillips not only ministered to the ladies in her care at Andrews, she shared reflections and insights gained from her experiences as a regular columnist for the Adventist Review.

Valerie was known for her warm and compassionate spirit, her quick wit and exceptional wisdom, and care for her students. At the 2011 Faculty Staff Awards Banquet at Andrews University, Valerie was honored for 30 years of service. In her award tribute, Frances Faehner, vice president for Student Life, said of Valerie, "Among her many unique gifts, Valerie makes an intentional effort to note and remember the special interests (favorite food, collections, etc.) of her residents. She is known for countless acts of unexpected kindness that are especially meaningful to students missing the comforts of home and family."

Dean Phillips is survived by two sisters and one brother.

Funeral arrangements are pending. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available on the Andrews website.

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