Elliot Valenstein

Elliot and I shared the same locker row at the gym--he was part of a really accomplished, smart, funny group of guys who made it a delight to be at the gym everyday. When he was well into his 90s, he received a case of fine wine from his son as a gift. I asked him what he planned to do with it, and he said (optimistically, as he always was) "I'll let it age for about 20 years and then I'll drink it!" We had Elliot and his wife over for dinner at our house, and for dessert we did smores...

I first met Elliot as an undergraduate when I couldn't get into Introductory Psychology and reluctantly signed up for his class, Introduction to Psychology as a Natural Science. He was such a wonderful teacher that I was immediately converted and subsequently went on to study cognitive neuroscience in graduate school at Michigan several years later. As luck would have it, my advisors had offices down the hall from his in East Hall, and I had the pleasure of many casual interactions with...

I knew Elliot from the U of M gym, where I learned much about his amazing life and love for Thelma. When one of his sons gave him a case of good wine after he turned 90, he optimistically said he would let it age for about 20 years before drinking it. One of the nicest and most interesting men I have ever met. Sincere condolences to his family-you are in my thoughts

Paul, Marcia, and their families, I was deeply saddened to learn about the death of Elliot. I cannot imagine how difficult this must be for you. In addition to many great achievements, he was a kind and funny neighbor to my family and me. I cherish my memories of long summer days at the neighborhood swimming pool and tennis courts.

To Paul, Marcia, Carl and Susan: How special to have met you in the presence of our All Seasons' beloved, precious and delightful Elliot and your father/father-in-law! I only wish I would have had more than just 14 months to become more acquainted with him. I appreciate the obituary with its information on an honorable and well-lived life with those most interesting details. I submit these words from Psalm 23: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall...