Archie James Twitchell

My condolences on the passing of Dr. Twitchell - one of the most inspiring professors I had during my masters degree program with Bowie State University Global campus in Germany.
I'm forever grateful for his kind wound encouragement during my study.
You are missed Dr. Twitchell.
Hilda Challender

We first met when I moved into a building he was already living in, and he welcomed me and offered me any help I might need. Two hours later we were still standing in the hallway talking and discovering how much we had in common. From then on we frequently wandered on long pathways along the river and through the extensive forests surrounding us, talking and occasionally stopping for a beer when we passed through towns. Among other things I learned from him it was never to judge another too harshly; he always found some good, and something to like in everyone.

Archie was a true gentleman, a good friend, a wise counselor, and a mainstay of the Graduate Programs of UMUC-Europe for many years as both Academic Director and Program Director of the Public Administration Program. With his successful experiences as a city manager, he brought real world knowledge and informative anecdotes to his students. He was one of those people who always seemed to be smiling and really liked being around people. I can remember a couple of times when he planned excursions to unusual historic places as a group outing for UMUC HQ, including perhaps, the Maginot Line, Metz, and a fortress in Northern France. We all benefitted from knowing him. Thanks, Archie for being you.

Irene, I´m so sorry for your loss. Thank you for taking such great care of this glowing man. As cousins , we didn´t connect in life often but I remember looking him up in Grants Pass when he was mayor ,I believe. It was great to see him and so proud of his success there. Then in Fla when we all came together in a restaurant where I first met you ,Irene. A handsome couple I thot! So very special to have this mini reunion . Rest in peace, dear cousin. Rowena Carolyn Twitchell lerch

Dr. Twitchell was my professor for my online Masters Degree Program. I took the courses while working as a contract Firefighter in Basrah Iraq. Nightly studies with helmet, flack vest and taking mortars at my computer desk. After failing the second portion of the final exam I was ready to give up thinking I had nothing more knowledge wise to give. Dr Twitchell convinced me that I could succeed if I just buckled down and followed his advice to study the authors theories and try to apply them to everyday life. Well it worked and after several months of study I passed the second time and got my Masters Degree. I needed someone to have faith in me during that difficult time in my life and there he was. In person, we have never met. I needed a friend and there he was. I could never call him Archie. I would always refer to him as Dr. Twitchell, my mentor, my friend and over the tears we would send tid-bits over email together. I recall his joy when he met and fell in love with his wife Irene. I have never met Irene either. But, hopefully someday I will. We don't always need to be present to be friends, sometimes spiritual friendships are just as fulfilling. I hope Dr. Twitchells spirit is soaring with his favorite authors and with those whom loved loved him dearly. RIP my beloved teacher.

Archie was a fun bridge partner. He managed to impart his vast knowledge of the game to me in such a pleasant manner. I will miss that twinkle in his eye as he always made his bid or set his opponents. Archie also loved to share his wisdom and life lessons. What a charming gentleman.

Uncle Arch always enjoyed time with his family. At the dinner table there was always great conversations. I remember our trip to Portsmouth with Mom, Archie and Irene. It was a great day spending with family. Thank you Irene for taking such great care of Uncle Archie.
Love
John and Robin

Archie was a wonderful man and I always enjoyed conversations with him about history, his travels and his philosophy of life in general. He tried not to complain or show his pain just show that wonderful smile he had. So thankful for all the great memories we shared together and grateful for the love of his wife my sister Irene. He will be forever missed.

Archie wrote here about Victor Frankl and his philosophy on life. Victor Frankl was an Austrian psychiatrist who wrote one of my favorite quotes, "Love goes very far beyond the physical person of the beloved. It finds its deepest meaning in his spiritual being, his inner self. Whether or not he is still alive at all, ceases somehow to be of importance." It makes me think about how you can still feel the love from a person and the impact of their effect on your life after they are gone. I will always remember talking to Archie about the books I was reading as a child, anyone who spoke to him could tell how intelligent he was and how much he valued the gift of learning. Talking to Archie always made me want to learn more. Archie will be so missed.

Archie and I both taught for the University of Maryland in Germany and were neighbors. The first time we met, we talked for hours, and from then on, we were close friends. We were often companions on European travels, long walks, and deep conversations. More recently, this friendship included our companions, and we enjoyed meeting on Zoom. As I count my closest friends in life, even from the beginning, Archie was always at the top of the list.

Archie loved life , He was such a smart man. He loved his family and was so proud of his children, he loved his wife fiercely! He enjoyed sharing things he had learned over the years as an educator and throughout his travels! He was always positive even tho he suffered a lot the last few years he didn´t complain . We will miss him very much !

Archie was a remarkable person,, intelligent and witty. I was fortunate enough to be part of a bridge foursome with him, where he dispensed bridge lessons along with the play. We will all miss his wit, wisdom and charm . Margie Bradford

Archie was a very intelligent person with a big heart and wonderful sense of humor. He will be missed by the Thompson family. Prayers to his love, our sister, Irene.