SANTA ROSA, Calif. – John William Eldridge, Ph.D., 84, passed away Friday, July 21, 2006, in Santa Rosa, Calif. He was born Aug. 22, 1921, in Nashua, N.H., the only child of Clarence C. and Grace Evelyn Eldridge. He was a graduate of Brewer High School, received his Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from the University of Maine, received his Master of Science degree in chemical engineering from Syracuse University and his doctorate in chemical engineering from the University of Minnesota. An honored teacher and professor, he loved teaching. He taught at the University of Virginia from 1950 to 1962 and the University of Massachusetts from 1962 to 1986, where he was department head from 1962 to 1976. He also did sabbaticals to the University of New South Wales, Australia, the University of British Columbia, and the Environmental Protection Agency in North Carolina. He worked with major industrial companies from 1942 to 1950 and was a part-time consultant from 1951 to 1996. He published 26 articles on both chemical and chemical engineering research literature. John was well-known for his optimistic outlook and the effect it had on those around him. His wonderful sense of humor, his openness and zest for adventure made him a true treasure to everyone he knew. He loved boating, swimming and dancing. He especially enjoyed travel, learning cultures and exploration. A superb fisherman, he was more than lucky; he was skilled. He took his sons on numerous fishing trips to Canada and Alaska. He studied hard, worked hard and played hard. His family was the center treasure of his life and they treasured the summers spent in Maine for the past 60 years. He will be dearly missed. He was the dearly beloved husband of 64 years to Lucille “Pat” Patten Eldridge; loving father of John William “Jack” Eldridge Jr., Stephen Chapman Eldridge and David Patten Eldridge; loved and admired grandfather of Scott Byron Eldridge, Jonathan Edward Eldridge, Sean Brandon Eldridge and Briana Renee Eldridge; and great-grandfather of Joseph Morgan Eldridge. No formal services will be held. Private interment will be at Marston Cemetery, Orrington. To honor and remember John, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Daniels Chapel of the Roses Funeral and Cremation Services.
JOHN WILLIAM ELDRIDGE, PHD
