Joseph Axlerod

Joseph Axlerod Teacher, lover of knowledge, inveterate student, natural friend to all he encountered, died peacefully at home, September 3, 2010, at age 92, after a short illness. Born January 15, 1915, in Kingston, Massachusetts, Joe earned his PhD in Linguistics at University of Chicago, marrying Adeline Abrams in 1939. They relocated to San Francisco in 1954, where Joe taught literature and art at San Francisco State University, where he remained until his retirement in the mid 80s. Addie's death preceded Joe's by six years. At the Center for Research and Development in Higher Education, Berkeley, Dr. Axelrod authored many books, including his most important, 'The University Teacher as Artist." Always engaging, Joe encouraged countless writers and artists within the academic and arts communities and joyfully built a diverse family of colleagues, students, artists, and friends. Those touched by his unforgettable smile, generous nature and kind heart have been honored to know him. His final gesture was offering his remains to the UCSF Willed Body Program where Joe teaches still. Survivors include long-time friends, Dr. J.D. (Jian-Dong) Zhang, Hedy (He) Zhang, Rebecca Peters, Behida Dolic, Rob McCallum, Katherine (Kat) and Dr. Bernie Krause, Esther Sklar, Jack Warner, and other devoted friends and caregivers who came to love Joe dearly and became part of his family. We miss you, Joe. Contributions may be made in Joe's honor by befriending and supporting the artist of your choice. No services are planned.