Dr. Richard Mortimer

Dr. Richard Mortimer of West Chester Dr. Richard Mortimer died of cardiac arrest on July 2, 2013. He is survived by his best friend and wife, Doris (Ridler) Mortimer, his sons, Patrick Lee, David Walter, James Matthew, and Daniel Scott, 12 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his sister, Almira (Mortimer) Sharp. Dr. Mortimer was born and resided in Philadelphia. His parents were Horace Mortimer and Almira (Matthews) Mortimer. He graduated from Central High School (for boys) in 1957. He studied mechanical engineering at Penn State from 1954-56 at which time he ceased his studies and married Doris in 1957. He served on active duty in the Army from 1958-60. Upon discharge he continued his mechanical engineering studies leading to a B.S.M.E in '62 and M.S.M.E. in '64, from Drexel Institute of Technology (now Drexel University). He continued his studies in Applied Mechanics and earned Drexel's 1st ever PhD in 1967. Dr. Mortimer then began a career at Drexel, which covered the period of 1967 thru 1993 (the year he was placed on long term disability). His work at Drexel included research, education, and administration. His research involved the response of structures (including those consisting of composite materials) to impact loads and the resulting propagation of stress waves. Applications of these theoretical and experimental techniques included aerospace and defense structures, as well as ultrasonics studies. Hs research was funded by NASA, DOD, NSF and industry and resulted in over 50 publications, numerous presentations and recognition in nine "Who's Who" and achievement awards. Dr. Mortimer also believed in the need for strong engineering education. As a teacher, he was awarded "The Outstanding Teacher of the Year" Award and "Dow Outstanding Young Faculty" Award. On the national level, his engineering accreditation experience resulted in his being elected to Vice Chair, Operations, Engineering Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology - the Board responsible for the accreditation of all collegiate engineering programs in the U.S. He also had significant administrative experience including, Professor, Head of Mechanical Engineering, and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs - all at Drexel. In all of these activities he implemented programs for the improvement of quality and expansion of funding to enhance Drexel's national reputation. In addition to the above, Dr. Mortimer volunteered much time and talent to his community. He coached Little League Baseball and soccer, was Assistant Scoutmaster and Cub Master, and was elected to and served 8 years on the Haverford Township School Board - 4 of these as either president or vice president. Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Sat. July 6, St. Peter's Church in the Great Valley, 2475 St. Peters Road, Malvern, PA 19355. Interment will be in the adjoining churchyard. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Richard's name to St. Peter's Church in the Great Valley or C.V.I.M @ cvim.org. www.maugergivnish.com