W. Andrew Achenbaum, Jr.
03/02/1947 - 04/29/2024
W. 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 Maine. He grew up in nearby Devon, attending public schools. His B.A. from Amherst College was in American Studies (Phi Beta Kappa). After graduation, he spent a year in Athens on a Rotary Fellowship, and then earned an M.A. in American Civilization at the University of Pennsylvania. That was followed immediately by several years in the Army, at Ft Sill, during which he married Mary Agnes Schieve. They had two daughters, who survive him.

Andy earned his Ph.D. in History at the University of Michigan in 1976. He taught at Canisius College and Carnegie-Mellon University before returning to Michigan where he was a professor of history and deputy director of the Institute of Gerontology. In 1999, Andy moved to Houston to become Dean of the College of Humanities, Fine Arts and Communication, and then Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and Professor of History at the University of Houston. He later taught several courses related to gerontology in various parts of the university. He was also affiliated with the Institute for Spirituality and Health in the TMC for a number of years.

Andy was a committed scholar and wrote extensively. He authored or co-authored many books on aging, as well as dozens of articles and public policy papers. See a partial list at https://generations.asaging.org/still-writing-not-done-aging-yet. He served on the board of directors of the National Council on Aging, was a board member and editor for multiple scholarly journals, and supported the Gerontological Society of America in numerous roles over the years.

In 2014, Andy married the Rev. Barbara Lewis, having first met her at a Holy Week service at which she was presiding. He retired from the University of Houston in 2017 as Professor Emeritus of History and Social Work, and thereafter held an appointment with UT Health Houston's Consortium on Aging. He continued to love mentoring students and kept in touch with many students from years ago, meeting with them as he passed through their cities, or having standing phone calls.

Andy was a very spiritual person, and yet had an irreverent take on many things. He really sought to share others' journeys and to learn from them. In addition to a wonderful network of friends, colleagues and students, Andy is survived by his wife, Barbara Lewis; his daughters, Emily Achenbaum Harris and her husband Erik; and Laura Schieve Achenbaum and her wife Candace Garcia. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Tabitha and Luke Harris; his brother Joe and Joe's wife Wyn; nephew Peter; and Barbara's son, Rick Venutolo. Andy was predeceased by his brother Mike.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 11 a.m., at St. James Episcopal Church, 3129 Southmore Blvd., Houston.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Houston Chronicle on May 7, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for W. Achenbaum

7 Entries

Phil Tonsoline

December 5, 2024

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 years.
He left a lasting impression.
Phil Tonsoline.

Dr. Darla Beaty, LCSW

July 29, 2024

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.

Matthew Sholler

July 24, 2024

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 clinical psychology. I will carry a part of Andy with me as a therapist who offers a place of solace and healing for others.

Ed Berkowitz

June 24, 2024

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 ever trying to proselytize (although he did like to look at Episcopal churches.) In an age that often did not bring out the best of academia, he gave academics a good name.

May 10, 2024

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.

Jerri Doctor

May 9, 2024

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 never forget my pal, friend and good buddy. Andy RIP. Love you.

Lynn Bliss, Ph.D.

May 6, 2024

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.

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