Fred B. Eiseman Jr.

Eiseman, Fred B. Jr.
died in Scottsdale, Arizona, on April 6, 2013. "Knowledge exists to be imparted" (Ralph Waldo Emerson) exemplified Fred's life. He was foremost a teacher, as well as a mentor and accomplished writer. Born in St Louis, Missouri, September 3, 1926, he graduated from John Burroughs High School in St.Louis County, and entered the Navy. As he completed his training and schooling, (a master's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Wisconsin) the war was over. After a second master's degree in education from Columbia University, he taught Earth science, chemistry, and physics at John Burroughs School. He moved to Phoenix Country Day School in 1962 and retired in 1971. As a unique and exceptional teacher, he inspired all to be inquisitive and to do their best. At age 11, he visited the Grand Canyon and first saw the Colorado River. 17 years later he would return to do many river trips, first as a commercial boatman and then as a private boater rowing his own dory on trips he organized and lead. At the age of 12 he spent a summer in the Southwest with Prairie Trek Expeditions where his life long appreciation for the stunning natural history of the area began. As a teacher, he often used his summer vacations to explore Grand Canyon and the surrounding area. On several of these trips, he would invite students to accompany him. He became a good friend to the Navajo and the Hopi. Upon marrying Margaret (Maggie) Gorman in 1958, he and Maggie continued traveling the Southwest as well as the world. On a visit to Bali, the life and culture of its people intrigued him, so much so, he spent most of the last 40 years living there. Virtually all of that time was spent learning, writing, and publishing about his second home. He and Maggie collaborated on several books and articles, including a 1980 National Geographic article titled "Bali Celebrates a Festival of Faith." Fred was preceded in death by three sisters, Justine Eiseman Mecray, Mary Eiseman Lang, Eleanor Eiseman Putzel and a brother Dr. Ben Eiseman. He is survived by his wife, Maggie Eiseman, close friends, and many appreciative former students. Each carries a piece of Fred's contributions to their lives. His ashes have been returned to Bali.