Irwin Leonard Slesnick

Irwin Leonard Slesnick, beloved teacher, father, husband, died September 5, 2012 at St. Joseph Hospital.
Dr. Slesnick was a professor of Biology and Science Education at Western Washington University from 1963 until retirement in 1996. He worked as Science Education Advisor in India from 1965 - 1970.
Irwin Slesnick was born in Canton, Ohio August 5, 1926. He joined the Marine Corps in March 1944 and served as a Japanese Language Interpreter during the Battle for Okinawa. At the end of WWII he was sent to China and was discharged in May, 1946.
Following his service, Slesnick received his B.S. and A.B. in Biology and Physical Science from Bowling Green State University, his M.S. in Zoology from University of Michigan, and his Ph.D. in Science Education from The Ohio State University.
Dr. Slesnick was an active member of Washington Science Teachers Association and National Science Teachers Association, receiving their highest award in 1998, the Robert H. Carleton Award for his leadership in Science Education. He wrote many articles for NSTA publications The Science Teacher and Science & Children.
Slesnick published numerous articles and books on Science Education. His company, Creative Dimensions, produced and developed science activity kits for children. He wrote a comprehensive book on WWII Japanese Language Schools initially motivated by his own experience.
Irwin Slesnick is survived by his wife Carole, his brother Bruce, and by his five children from a previous marriage, Trina, Twila, Dan, Tanya, and Natasha.
Appreciation goes out to Home Attendant Care, Mt. Baker Care Center, and Irwin's doctors and the staff at St. Joseph Hospital for their constant care and comfort.
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