Erwin Ward Nommensen

ERWIN WARD NOMMENSEN passed away March 5, 2003. He was born on November 23, 1921 in Denver, Colorado to Etta and Anthony Nommensen. He served his country as a lieutenant in the Navy during World War II. A Phi Beta Kappa scholar, he earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry at the University of Illinois where he met the love of his life, Mary. They were married August 20, 1949. After a 37 year career with Exxon he spent his retirement caring for his grandchildren, reading for the Lighthouse for the Blind and writing the newsletters for the Exxon Annuitants, the Palmer Drup Abuse Program, Memorial Drive Presbyterian Venturers and Gabriel's Children. His life was marked by his passion for knowledge, his fascination with wildlife, the company of so many dear friends and his tireless devotion to his family. He has left behind his adoring wife of 53 years, Mary Nommensen, his daughter and husband Lynn and Bud Peters, his daughter and husband Patti and John Merrill, his son and wife Rick and Cindy Nommensen, his son and wife Dave and Roz Nommensen, his sister and husband Lila and Bob Eisberg and his greatest fans, grandchildren Emily, Annie and Elliot Gerson, Miles, Blake and Mary Kathryn Nommensen, Laura and Kacey Nommensen and step-grandchildren, Brady and Brian Merrill. Even through his final days, his remarkable patience, generous good will and wry sense of humor taught us all a lasting lesson about grace under fire. The family wishes to thank all the angels at Methodist Hospital. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.