James-D'Ianni-Obituary

Dr. James D. D'Ianni

Akron, Ohio

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Akron, Ohio

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Dr. James D. D'Ianni

Dr. James D. D'Ianni, one of America's foremost chemists and forward-thinking industrial leaders, died August 14, 2007 in Akron, Ohio, where he lived all of his 93 years except for three years spent in Madison, Wisconsin; and where he obtained his Ph. D. in organic...

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I interviewed Dr D'Ianni in 1986 while I was writing a book about the history of synthetic rubber and I was immediately aware that he was a thoroughly decent person and a true gentleman. Although he was looking after his wife at that time, he did all he could to help me and after the book was published he very kindly took me out to lunch. I am very sorry that he is no longer with us and my thoughts are with his family.

Dear Helen -

I was saddened to read recently of your brother's passing. He certainly contributed much to the world during his lifetime. You have my sincere condolences.

Seeing your name as one of his surviving family members brought back a flood of memories from years ago when your friendship meant so much to my sister, Barbara, and our whole family.

I first met Jim when I was dating his daughter at Northwestern, in 1960. He and Vicki's Mom loved to travel by car to Chicago, Florida and New York City (after Vicki and I married - 1961 - and moved to NYC for me to go to law school).
He was the most professionally accomplished and decent human being I've ever met - kind, generous, humble, caring for others (especially students) - I can't recall his ever uttering a blasphemy - even on the golf course! Vicki and I, and our kids and...

My thoughts and prayers are with the
famlly of Dr. D'Ianni

Helen Tufexis
Former classmate of
Helen D'Ianni

Dearest Claire,

We are so sorry to learn of your loss. Your love for Jim [and his for you] was so evident and palpable in all our encounters. Our family will cherish the time we spent with you both at our twin sons' college graduation.

Please feel free to call upon us if you need anything in the days, weeks and months ahead.

With deepest sympathy and much admiration,

Jim and Kathleen Stimler

Jim D'Ianni with David Perry at a cap and gown ceremony in 2004 on the University of Akron campus.

I got to know Jim because of his involvement as an alumnus and supporter of the University of Akron chemistry department. I soon came to appreciate his accomplishments as a leader in the profession at Goodyear and in the American Chemical Society (ACS). With 74 years of service, Jim was the longest serving member of the Akron Section of the ACS.

Jim was a friend whom I admired greatly for his commitment to students and his commitment to making the world we live in a better place. I...

Offering our deepest condolences during this time.