Hugh Gilbert Gauch Jr.

Hugh Gilbert Gauch Jr. passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, at the age of 83. A lifelong scholar, teacher, and gentleman of quiet intellect, Hugh devoted his life to science, learning, and the pursuit of truth.

Hugh’s deep curiosity and analytical mind led him to a distinguished career at Cornell University, where he served for many years as a respected researcher, educator, and mentor. His statistical methodology in plant ecology, agriculture, and plant breeding was recognized internationally for its precision, clarity, and impact. At Cornell, Hugh was admired not only for his scientific excellence but also for his humility, integrity, and generosity of spirit.

Throughout his career, Hugh authored influential publications with over 10,000 citations, and he contributed to the development of statistical methods that advanced agricultural and environmental research around the world. His commitment to careful reasoning and evidence-based science inspired generations of students and colleagues. He is particularly noted for his computer software for thorough data analysis used in over 4,000 laboratories and his procedures for the evaluation of predictive models with real-world data. He authored or co-edited five books. Scientific Method in Brief has been invaluable for teaching scientists in training.

In his later years, Hugh applied his academic and statistical skills to the study of theology and philosophy in service of the church. His published works in Philosophia Christi, The Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, and The Evangelical Quarterly, addressing topics of epistemology, apologetics, prophecy, and natural theology. He also served his community as an officer of Sigma Xi, the Honor Society of Science, and as a founding board member of The Chesterton House, a Christian living and study center at Cornell University.

As recently as a year before his death, he maintained correspondence with researchers all over the world, providing statistical assistance to real-world projects to improve crop yields in many countries.

Beyond academia, Hugh found joy in running, reading, organ concerts, ham radio, and the beauty of the natural world. He lived a life guided by faith, purpose, and gratitude.

Hugh is survived by nephews Eric and Travis Coles and their children, friends, and the many colleagues and students whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Martha Gauch, and his twin sister Susan Gauch Coles.

A memorial service celebrating Hugh’s life will be held at Christ Chapel in Ithaca, New York, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

Hugh Gilbert Gauch, Jr. will be remembered as a brilliant scientist, a devoted teacher, and a kind and humble man whose lifelong pursuit of truth continue to inspire all who knew him.