Frits ZERNIKE Obituary

ZERNIKE, Frits
Frits Zernike, 80, of Essex, died July 12. He was married for 49 years to Barbara Backus Zernike, who survives him, as do his children, Frits III, Harry, and Kate; his daughter- and son-in-law, Jennifer Wu and Jonathan D. Schwartz; and three grandchildren, Frits and Nicolaas Schwartz and Anders Zernike. He was born in Groningen, the Netherlands, and spent an interim year studying at Johns Hopkins University before receiving his Doctorandus in physics from the University of Groningen. He moved to the United States in 1956, and was a longtime director of optical design for the Perkin-Elmer Corporation in Norwalk. He was also the director of optical design for Silicon Valley Group, a consultant for Carl Zeiss, and was the first manager for the Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography Program, a collaboration between the Department of Energy and private industry to develop the technology to produce the next generation of microprocessors, breaking previous limits on their speed and capacity. He was also the co-author of "Applied Nonlinear Optics." He was the president of the Community Music School in Centerbrook from 2003-2007, president of Friends In Service Here, an organization that provides rides for those unable to drive, and was steward of Cross Lots, a property of the Essex Land Trust.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, at the Essex Yacht Club, Novelty Lane, Essex, CT. Donations in his memory may be made to the Dance for Parkinson's Program, c/o NMS, 100 Audubon St, New Haven, CT 06510, or the Community Music School, P.O. Box 387, Centerbrook, CT 06409.

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Published by Hartford Courant on Jul. 18, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Frits ZERNIKE

4 Entries

July 28, 2011

To: Barbara, my life was made so much richer knowing your husband Frits.
To: Frits, Jr, Harry & Kate, thank you for sharing your Dad.

A walk on Rowayton Avenue accompanied by my Cavalier Royal Crown Derby most always brought me by the Zernike house. When the garage door (which faced the road) was up and when the sounds of 'Wagner' wafted out onto the street I knew Frits was about ... creating, repairing or puttering with the wood he so enjoyed.
Miles spotted us first then a voice called out .....I detoured into the garage, while Miles & Derby greeted one another, Frtis happily showed me his latest project - I looked for a place to perch a while as I so enjoyed our conversations, Frits had a smile and twinkle in his eye that made one feel so welcome.
I wish I was with you. Love Linda

Karen Grippo

July 22, 2011

Barbara and Family: I am saddened to hear of Frits' passing. He was a wonderful man, whose lively wit and intelligence was a bright spot in my many caregiving visits and something I truly looked forward to. I remember our many conversations over tea and The New Yorker (especially the cartoons!), our occasional walks through Essex, and the time I showed him my best backgammon moves only to have him win the game! His determination and perserverence in dealing with Parkinson's was a shining example that no matter what life hands you, you can overcome so much with grace, patience and good humor. He left a wonderful legacy in his children and grandchildren, of whom he was so proud. To the Zernike family, my sincere condolences. Please know that I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Alexander Starikov

July 20, 2011

Having learned that Frits Zernike died stopped me amid-task. This July 12th I discussed a subject of our shared interest with a colleague, referred to Frits’ technology values. This is personal. I have first met Frits Zernike in the step-and-scan development project at Perkin-Elmer. His mild manner, quick wit and analyses of the paths to consider next, calmed and nudged forward the occasionally heated meetings. Readily approachable, eager to learn and to share, Frits influenced my professional outlook and, I am sure, benefited many others. Your loss is also my loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

Carol Farrior

July 18, 2011

I never got to know the Frits that was well and healthy. As a caregiver every client leaves a place in my heart. Frits left many!! He was a determined man who gave Parkinson's a good fight! He displayed a wonderful sence of humor & made me laugh. At times he was stubborn, which made me patient. I loved seeing his smile when he saw his grandchildren . I loved how he would hold Barbara's hand and look at her. To the entire family thank you for letting Frits be a part of my life. My sincere condolences to you all especially you Barb. You are an amazing women!

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