W.-Achenbaum-Obituary

W. Andrew Achenbaum Jr.

San Marcos, Texas

1947 - 2024

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San Marcos, Texas

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W. Andrew Achenbaum, Jr.03/02/1947 - 04/29/2024W. Andrew Achenbaum, who defined the study of aging in America as an emerging social science and history discipline, died Monday, April 29, 2024, at the age of 77.Andy was born in Philadelphia, the son of Wilbert A. Achenbaum and Muriel Delores...

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My condolences at the passing of a man that influenced my love of history. I have been recently thinking of him and was unaware of his passing. I had the good fortune to have Dr Achebaum for two history courses as an undergraduate at Canisius college in 1978-79. He left such an impression on me as a teacher and person. I am now 66 and retired but over the years my reading for pleasure has been history of all types. I spent my career as a Physical Therapist and also taught adjunct for many...

Andy was a special mentor to me when I was a doctoral student at University of Houston. I learned so much about Gerontology from him and was honored to have him chair my Dissertation Committee. I will remember his wit and his wisdom and will try to pay it forward.

I met Andy while I was an undergrad at the University of Michigan. He was a gifted lecturer and genuine interest-taker in the lives and futures of his students. I was especially grateful that a man of his intelligence, spirituality, and warmth actively supported my search for a career consistent with my own values. To be "in the world but not of it" was a snippet from John 17:14 that he sometimes quoted to me. He played a role in supporting my application to my current doctoral program in...

I just found out about Andy's death and want to express how sorry I was to get the news. Andy was a colleague who was incredibly helpful and generous to me, going out of his way to make connections that benefited me. I never understood everything that he said or wrote but it was always profound, the product of a brilliant mind. He also had a sometimes hidden mad cap sense of humor that made him a delight to be with. I also admired his spiritual side and the way he acknowledged it without...

May God's promise found in John 6:40, of the hope to see our loved ones again, comfort your heart and give you peace, strength, and hope in the days ahead.

I was shocked to see Andy has passed away. He was my friend, worked with him for 10 years. He was the best friend ever. We had long conversations before I started working and he would pop into my office for a quick chat. Andy was my lunch partner after we both left the Institute. We would meet at Quin Dynasty, have a good lunch and best conversations. I will miss our lunches. Barbara, my deepest condolences to you and your family. May God watch over you and help with your grieving. I will...

I first met Andy when he interviewed for the Dean´s position at UH. We bonded quickly over University of Michigan ties. Andy was my Dean and my friend. He endured many challenges as Dean. Andy was a dear, spiritual person, who was committed to the field of gerontology as well as other issues. He was generous, quirky, and loyal. He has established a legacy of scholarship and kindness.