Julian Markels

Julian was a wonderful man in every way. In my years teaching at Ohio State we had many discussions on skepticism--his work on Moby Dick--and a deep friendship. I so admired him and loved him. His harrowing war experiences contrasted with his abiding humanity never ceased to amaze me. He was a blessing in my life and everyone who knew him. My deepest condolences to Robin.

Julian is one of the first chairs that I worked closely with during my career at OSU. He stands out as a man of character, honesty, and compassion. He had a marvelous sense of humor that helped us all get through budget constraints and personnel problems. Robin and family, there are no words to adequately capture your loss. Our hearts are with you all.

Julian was the Chair of my Ph.D Committee and a generous mentor and advisor. As an international student unused to personal attention from professors, his thoughtful guidance and his confidence in my intellectual abilities meant a lot. As a German student of the post-war generation, his acceptance of me as a person meant even more. I owe him much and have often thought about him over the years. He was a good and ethical man, and I was lucky to have known him. Warmest regards to his...

I began working at Ohio State University (long before the obligatory "The", which Julian always found amusing,) and remember him as first a mentor, then someone who always treated me with respect as a supportive co-worker, and finally, a friend. I cannot begin to illustrate how much he taught me about being a thoughtful, respectful, and understanding collaborator. I found him to be such an intelligent, understanding, amusing and generous person. I will miss him.

To Robin and all of Julian's siblings, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, after taking his classes a few times as an undergrad, I continued to think of Julian as my professor (and I'm no spring chicken, a retired prof myself), sending him greetings and news over the years. Rest in peace beloved Professor.