Eugene W. Nissen

When I registered for Dean Nissen's advanced Latin course in 1980 I didn't realize that he was the LS&A dean of academic affairs. Little did I know while I was a student in his class that he would later vouch for my academic potential and keep me enrolled at U of M after I faced several personal challenges and my GPA suddenly dropped to an unacceptable level. I have often thought of him and only recently learned of his passing after deciding to look for him on the internet. I remember him...

I regret that I didn't know Gene for more years! He made sure I knew he LOVED me, in community and as myself. Oh, such takeaways from conversations and sermons! What a life he had - that he and God made for him and you, his family, and obviously each community he engaged with. Gene is and was a creative and holy spirit. Love, Lois Miller (King of Kings Lutheran, Ann Arbor)

I never met Dean Nissen, but I came to know what marvelous parents he and his wife were through his children. Mary, Anna and Jim were my students at various times in the AA Public Schools. Such polite, kind, talented, industrious students -- all three -- were obviously loved, encouraged, challenged and cherished by a loving family. Dean Nissen and his wife provided me with the pleasure and rewards of knowing and guiding their children for a while in their development. I am certain that...

Gene maybe influenced my life as a youth more than anyone except my parents. My 1st letter from my cousin I was a day past 18. His writings on family history inspired me to spend countless thousands of hours doing the same. I wish I could write half as well as Gene. I was lucky to meet with him many times and spent a weekend in Clinton IA looking for county records with him. Had beer over dinner in Ann Arbor. He taught generosity and to Pay it Forward. I´ll do my best to keep his memory and...

To Beth and Mary and all of your family - My sympathy for your father´s death. Enjoy your many happy memories of your time together. Cathy

To Gene's family, I extend my deepest sympathy. I had the good fortune to work with Gene during my tenure at the U of M. He was always very caring and supportive of all students. He provided sound and practical advice to students, staff, and faculty. He was held in high regard by everyone with whom he had contact. May the memories of his wonderful life help to ease the pain of your loss.