AAVSO Newsletter 33: In Memoriam

The AAVSO extends its most sincere sympathy and condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the following members, colleagues, and friends who have passed away since the publication of the previous Newsletter.

Dr. Eugene C. Larr
Encinitas, CA

Eugene was a long-time AAVSO member who supported the work of the organization for many years. He was also the founder of Larr Optics and Electronics in California.

Carl F. Kurtz
Bethlehem, PA

A Life Member of the AAVSO, Carl joined the organization in the Fall of 1926. He taught astronomy in Westfield, NJ, and volunteered at the Sperry Observatory where he assisted the public with the use of the telescope and gave occasional lectures. He also volunteered at the Union County College campus for 15 years. Carl made 480 variable star observations, and was a true astronomy enthusiast, travelling to 71 countries that included observing 17 solar eclipses. He was 98.

John Baxter
Pasadena, CA

John (BJOH) was a dedicated and determined member/observer, participating in observing campaigns and contributing over 3500 binocular observations in about 18 months despite a very difficult observing situation. His observations total is actually 10,814, however, as in the 1970s he had contributed several thousand observations under the name Kenneth Sabine (SAB).

Barbara Silva
Stoneham, MA / AAVSO HQ

Barbara started at the AAVSO in 1979 as a data entry technician ("keypuncher" in the language of the day), becoming expert in accurately and quickly entering variable star observations, interpreting observers' handwriting, and remembering their reporting idiosyncrasies. In her 24+ years, Barbara keypunched/verified over 5.5 million observations, including 1.2 million in the 1911-1961 archival data project. She also helped with HQ projects large and small. Barbara was a true family person, with many beloved siblings and offspring. The AAVSO was her second family, and she in turn was a close member of the AAVSO family. We miss her cheery and comfortable presence, her concern and wise advice, and her sometimes wicked (but always ladylike) sense of humor.