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Dr. Francis Byrne Colavita
Dr. Francis Byrne Colavita
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Francis Colavita Obituary
On Monday, February 16, 2009, of Pittsburgh and Sunny Isles Beach, FL; Beloved husband of the late Harriet Phillips who died on February 13, 2009. Beloved father of Lisa Colavita Keibler (Charles Keibler) of Pittsburgh, Jill Colavita Vertes (Erno Valer Vertes) of Pittsburgh and Francis Byrne Colavita, Jr. of Milwaukee, WI. Brother of Henry Colavita Maryland. Grandfather of Kara Elizabeth Keibler, Kiley Decker Keibler, Chase Caleb Keibler, Ryleigh Valer Vertes, Charlotte Marie Vertes and Kendall K. Vertes. Great-grandfather of Lily Marie Keibler-Robinson. Services at RALPH SCHUGAR CHAPEL, INC. 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Friday at 10 AM. Visitation Thursday 6-8 PM and Friday 9- 10 AM. Interment Homewood Cemetery.
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Karen Ianni
February 12, 2024
Even after all these years, just hearing Frank´s name and seeing his photos brings a smile to my face. Frank...you were a gem and a light in my world.
Ryan O'Hara; Pitt CAS 2002
January 9, 2022
What a great teacher. I'll never forget. You cared about your students. I was in over my head during Sensation & Perception b/c I didn't have the prereqs, but you helped. I still remember. Thank you for everything.
Marion Kealy
February 13, 2019
Ten years since they died. But the pain must still go on for their family. My thoughts are with them on this anniversary.
Christine Berliner
February 9, 2011
Frank and Harriet - thinking of you today (yoga on the ship with Harriet) and realizing it's almost two years since we lost you. Your impact on my life was so great, taking me on the Semester at Sea journey and all it entailed. Miss you both and thinking of your family and how much more they must miss you. Dreaming a valentine to you.
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Walker Ranger
November 11, 2010
I have recently finished watching all of Dr Colavita's lectures on Sensation and Perception. I found him to be both amusing and informative. It is so unfortunate that such a great person's life was cut short so soon. I will miss you.
October 25, 2010
It is October of 2010 and I am sitting in my apartment in Seville, Spain. I am a cousin of Frank's but confess to not having seen him for almost half a century although we did talk about two decades ago when I was a VP at Rider University. I do not know why I decided to google him but was shocked to learn of his death. I knew him best as a very young man with his father, mother, and brother. I am very sad at this moment.
frederick Olessi.
Krister Ljungqvist
September 13, 2010
I have so enjoyed the course Perception and Age.
I am so sad to hear that both he and his wife have died.
Marion Kealy
August 25, 2010
Aug. 2010. I have just finished the Teaching Company course on Sensation, Perception, and the Aging Process, which has been very helpful and insightful. I would like to add my condolences on the tragic loss of Prof. Colavita and his wife.
Doug Berdie
June 9, 2010
I just finished listening to Dr. Colavita's Teaching Company lectures on "Sensation, Perception, and the Aging Process." Rarely am I so moved by these types of lectures that I try to hunt down the professor to give my heqrtfelt, "Thanks!" Having now discovered the tragedy that befell him and his wife, I'd like to not only express my condolences to his family members for their loss, but also wish to let them know how much his lectures meant to both my wife and me. My wife teaches college introductory psychology and has benefited from his lectures both in terms of little known facts she can now pass on to her students, but also from the myriad examples Dr. Colavita used--which make the content come to life. I come from a long line of psychologists (going back generations) and truly enjoyed the learning that I attained. Dr. Colavita came across as a truly likable individual, and I had hoped to have a chance at some point to meet him--just to know a fine human being. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, and express my sincerest regards to all of his relatives.
Doug Berdie
June, 2010
GN Frias
June 1, 2010
Dr. Colavita was the best professor I had at FAU, period. His knowledge boundless, his humor tactful, his creativity genius. You inspired me to become the best person I could become and I thank you very much.
February 18, 2010
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February 18, 2010
sailing in Italy, 2001
February 18, 2010
Frank and Harriet in front of the Taj
February 18, 2010
Karen Ianni
February 16, 2010
It's difficult to believe that a year has already gone by since we lost Frank and Harriet. Here in the Psychology Department, Frank's name has become legend and Harriet's memory is also kept close. I pass their resting place almost every day and somehow that brings me a peaceful feeling as I drive by -just knowing that I can wave "hello". They are truly missed.
Norman Webster
November 16, 2009
My name is Norman Webster and I'm from London Ontario Canada. I'm currently doing Dr. Colavita's Teaching Company course called Sensations, Perceptions and the Aging Process . I was so impressed with Dr. Colavita's presentation and course material that I decided to google him to find out more about this great man. Needless to say, I was floored to discovered the passing of Francis and his wife Harriet. My deepest sympathies go out to the family and to all whos hearts and minds were touched by this wonderful man.
Rick Kelly
October 7, 2009
I worked with Dr. Colivita as a undergrad in his lab at Pitt circa 1978, he was always kind and willing to help. I am very sad to hear of his passing.
Debbie Delia Kosydar
September 10, 2009
I was shocked to discover that Dr. Colavita and his wife passed away. I had Dr. Colavita when I was an undergraduate at Pitt. He was a remarkable teacher. I extend my condolences to his children and family. It was a pleasure and a privilege to have known him.
Phil Fung
July 31, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of this tragedy. I attended Semester at Sea in the Fall of 2000. I was blessed to make friends with Harriet and Francis. Harriet was such an amazing artist, and loved to pour over her drawings. Dr. Colavita was the epitome of a scholar. I wish now that I had a chance to spend another voyage with them. Rest in peace good doctor. Good night dear Harriet.
Marie Dumais
March 23, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies. Frank, Harriet and I attended Spanish Lessons a few years ago, He learned so fast it was amazing.
Ronna Salzedo
March 16, 2009
My name is Ronna Salzedo and I am a student at FAU. Dr.Colavita was my teacher at the school. I wanted to send my deepest sympathys to his entire family. In the short time I new him I have to say the entire class just fell in love with him. He was the most vibrant man with so much to teach. It was my greatest pleasure and honor to be a part of his class. He mentioned his family a great deal and how proud all of you made him. I am again so sorry for your loss. I wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
Ronna Salzedo
April McKay
March 14, 2009
Just wanted to send my sympathy to the family, friends, and students of Dr. Colavita. I only shared half of this semester with him, but I am very fortunate for the time I had. He shared so much with us and was genuinely looking out for us. It's amazing to see the connections he established throughout the entire room within just a brief period of time.
Vanessa Marin
March 11, 2009
Dr. Colavita was my Cognition teacher this semester at FAU. Although I only got to know him for half of the semester he was great to be around. He had such vibrance and was always smiling. My heart goes out to him and his family, he definitely will be missed by many.
Vanessa Marin (Ft. Lauderdale, Fl FAU student)
Natalie Neidrick
March 11, 2009
Dear Professor Colavita's family, I'm very sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you. I was fortunate that I not only had Dr. Colavita as a Professor in freshman Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, but I also had the privilege of traveling with him and Harriet on the Summer 2003 Semester at Sea Voyage. I had a great time in each of his classes and enjoyed his lectures. He was always approachable and open to students that you felt comfortable asking him questions or approaching him with issues. He was an animated Professor, who could draw in the attention of hundreds of students in an oversized lecture hall. He would tell us stories that would help us remember little details easily forgotten when reading a text book. When I was a Freshman at Pitt, my grandfather died the first day of classes first semester. When I returned, I remember having to tell every professor what happened and why I missed the first week of classes. Compared to other professors, Dr. Colavita was very concerned about my situation and very compassionate. He even remembered my story two years later when we traveled on SAS, and I will always be thankful for his kindness. I could not tell you the names of most my college professors, but I always remembered his. I was very fortunate to have him as a professor and will carry his lessons for the rest of my life. I hope you can find peace in your time of pain and remember all the lives he touched. He will never be forgotten.
Charles White
March 11, 2009
Dr. Frank Colavita was an outstanding professor at Florida Atlantic University for more than a decade. In addition to the many different courses that he taught, he offered enlightening seminars on how to teach psychology. I am filling in now to complete his last course in Cognition, and I realize what a tough act he was to follow. His students loved him very much, and they seem to know a lot about his life and work. I'm sure that is due to Frank's much-appreciated anecdotal style of lecturing. I liked Frank, and I value his contribution to our students' learning. We shall miss him a lot.
Anne Elisco-Lemme
March 4, 2009
Jill, I heard about your father and his wife from my mother. What a tremendous loss for your entire family. I remember thinking your dad was pretty wonderful back when we were in high school, but I had no idea what an incredible life he continued to live. Truly inspirational. My husband just lost his father suddenly about 2 months ago, and like your dad, he was way too young and enjoying life to the fullest. I'm deeply saddened that you, too, are going through this pain. It's devastating.
Natasha
March 2, 2009
I had the pleasure of having Dr.Colavita teach a couple of my Psych. classes back in 1997. I do not remember many of my professors now, but I do remember Dr. Colavita. I remember him as a very funny and warm person. My heart goes out to his family and friends. It was an honor to have him as a teacher at the University of Pittsburgh.
Nick Wells
March 1, 2009
There are many who have had an impact on my life. Frank and Harriet are two of those people, not because we knew each other well, but because we shared a voyage around the world in the fall of 2000.
Although we rarely spoke during that time, I often spotted Frank and Harriet dancing in the union and admired their obvious enjoyment of life. ...If I could dance like that, I'm sure I'd have it made!
I also feel that I owe Frank a debt of gratitude for all of the chuckles that I've enjoyed since the voyage from a song that begins:
"Mama, don't let your babies grow up to be professors. /They don't go to bars/ They prefer seminars..."
(If anyone remembers the rest of the words, please drop me a line.)
...Well, Frank's mama did let him grow up to be a professor and the world is a richer place as a result.
With fondest regards,
Dara DeChellis
March 1, 2009
My roomate and I were sitting in our Oakland apartment and watching the news when we learned of Dr. Colavita's passing. We both remembered he was our Psychology professor when we were undergrads and immediately recalled knowledge he taught us.
It was a blessing to have him as a professor.
Jennifer Puleo
February 27, 2009
My thoughts go out to the whole Colavita family. I had the pleasure of having Dr. Colavita teach my Bio Psychology class back in the mid nineties. I failed the first time due to an insuffient professor and when I took it with him, I passed with flying colors. He also taught another of my classes. It just goes to show the difference a caring, funny and warm teacher who loves his job and is so full of life can make. Thank you Doctor...you will be missed.
Paul Recht
February 23, 2009
Everyone who has signed the Guest Book so far has personal memories of your father. Although a Pittsburgh resident all my life, I do not. But I feel that I got to know him through his Teaching Company course, which I completed recently. I postponed writing a personal letter of thanks to him in Florida for two weeks, then it was too late. My sincere condolences.
Stanley & Ronni Beck
February 21, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Donald Hofstadter
February 20, 2009
We cannot find the right words to express the void that Frank and Harriet leave in our lives: we had the pleasure of getting to know them as they transitioned their lives into the Miami area and we quickly got to appreciate the warm and friendly nature of both of them. Not to mention Frank's great sense of humor! It's impossible to think that we'll never see them on the dance floor again, or at the Irish restaurant where we last ate, or at the Film Festival where we not long ago shared a moving story together. They'll always be in our memories!
Cami and Donald Hofstadter
Anne Berger
February 20, 2009
I will treasure our lonstanding friendship and you will both be in my heart forever.
Susan Stollings
February 20, 2009
I had the honor of having Dr. Colavita as a professor and as a member of my dissertation committee. He was an entertaining and informative lecturer, and a calming influence in a stressful time of dissertation writing. He will be missed. My sympathy to his family.
Karen Ianni
February 20, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to the Colavita family. I met Frank in 1977 when I first joined the staff of the Psychology Department. From that day until the time of his passing he was truly a blessing in my life - always there with that wonderful smile, quick wit, and comforting hug. After my own father died at a young age, Frank became like a second dad to me. He gave me lots of advice over the years and taught me many things - everything from how to fix a broken hairdryer to how to dance a mean cha cha - but a few of the most important lessons I learned from Frank were that 1) People matter - he had such a caring way of making everyone feel respected and valued; 2) Life is for living - something to experience to the fullest; and 3) You need to find something to laugh about every day - even if it means laughing at yourself. So, today through my tears as I said good-bye to my dear friend, I managed a few chuckles over good times past. Frank will live on in my heart always.
Sanford (Joe) Golin
February 20, 2009
Frank and I were colleagues at Pitt for 30 years. When Jane and I moved to Florida last year we renewed our friendship and were with Frank and Harriet quite often. They were wonderful people and Jane and I miss them greatly. Our condolences to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchild.
Carl & Cynthia Goldman
February 20, 2009
We will miss a fine gentleman and his wonderful wife who enjoyed everyday of his life ... traveling, running, dancing, socializing and loving. We never heard him say a mean word about anybody. We will miss him dearly.
John Orndorff
February 19, 2009
Frank and I were on the track team at Washington-Lee High School in Arlington, Va. In his senior year he won the state cross-country ,state indoor mile and outdoor mile championships, the latter two in record time. He had many friends and was fun to be around. His little brother Henry was also on the team. It was with great sadness that I heard of Frank's passing, and I extend sincere condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.
Henry Lederer
February 19, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
GERALD HALPERN
February 19, 2009
I SAT NEXT TO FRANK JUST OVER A WEEK AGO. HE AND HARRIET WERE PART OF MORT AND CAROL'S DANCING GROUP.IT WAS THE FIRST TIME I HAD A CHANCE TO SIT AND JUST TALK. HE WAS A WONDERFUL MAN, AND HE AND HARRIET WERE FULL OF LIFE AND SUPERB DANCERS. WE ARE JUST SO SAD AT THEIR SUDDEN DEPARTURE. WE WISH THE FAMILY ONLY THE BEST, AND WE KNOW THEY ARE LEFT WITH WONDERFUL MEMORIES,OF THIS SWEET COUPLE.
WITH LOVE PAULINA AND GERRY HALPERN
Ruth, Felice and Hope Monnes
February 19, 2009
Please accept our deepest condolences. Frank was a wonderul friend and nieghbor as he passed my door each day with a kind word and exceptional warmth. We will miss him terribly. It will never be the same here without him.
Bernadette (Bernie) Tumicki
February 19, 2009
To the family of Frank~~My sorrow is extended to you. I am a friend of Harriet and I thought so kindly of Frank. He was so nice when he answered the phone when I called Harriet~~always good comments and kindness. They will both be missed. They were loved by so many people. We've suffered such a loss.
Be Blessed
Love, Bernadette (Bernie) Tumicki
Bill Covington
February 19, 2009
Frank and I attended high school together at Washington-Lee in Arlington, Virginia. He was a track star and I was a so-so runner. I never saw anything of Frank during a race other than his back as he opened the distance between the rest of the runners to finish a distant first place. Frank, in spite of his track stardom, was always gracious and humerous with all of his teammates. I will always have fond memories of our three years slaving for Al Haringer, our track coach, as we practiced running on the top floors of the high school (we had no winter indoor track!) Good bye Frank, I will miss you. Bill Covington
Randy Stackhouse
February 19, 2009
To me Frank was a living angel. From the first time I met him 8 years ago he treated me as his best friend. Every time Frank would stop in at work, he always took the time from his schedule to say hello, ask about me and my family and tell me something funny. I already am regretting that this will not happen again. I will miss his infectious smile and disposition. I only hope that I can take, from my experience of knowing him, a small piece of the way he lived his life and apply it to mine. He will be sorely missed by all.
Debbie Connell
February 18, 2009
Frank's zest for life should be an inspiration to us all. I feel blessed and honored to have had the pleasure of calling Frank my friend. My prayers go out to the families of Frank and Harriet.
Polly Stabile
February 18, 2009
Frank was one of those "easy to know" kind of guys. He was open to meeting new people, making new friends, and cherishing old acquaintances. I knew Frank and Harriet from SAS. Frank was a highly respected faculty and a favorite of our students. Sailing around the world together on a ship allowed free time for lots of laughs and stimulating conversations. My experiences were made all the more memorable because I got to share them with the Colavita's. My heart goes out to the families of these two dynamic individuals.
Frank and Harriet doing the macarena (Debbie Felker's wedding)
February 18, 2009
Frank doing the macarena (Debbie Felker's Wedding)
February 18, 2009
Frank was always smiling
February 18, 2009
Debbie Rodday
February 18, 2009
Dear Family and Friends of Frank,
I just wanted to write you a short note to say how truly sad am I for your loss. I had the wonderful opportunity of sailing with Frank and Harriet on the Summer 2003 Semester at Sea Voyage. He had such a wonderful, positive, kind and energetic presence on that voyage. The glint in his eyes still brings a smile to my face... Now of course that smile is laced with sadness knowing that he is no longer physically here with us. I will miss him... May you find comfort knowing that he was cherished by all who interacted with him and that he will be missed by those his life touched...
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Warmly,
Debbie Rodday
(Formerly of Pittsburgh)
Dick Moreland
February 18, 2009
Frank was a colleague of mine at the University of Pittsburgh for many years. He was always kind and supportive, which was especially valuable to me when I was a young faculty member and he was the Department Chair. Frank was the same person away from work as he was at work, a rare quality. I liked him a lot and I will miss him -- I do already.
Mark Affeltranger
February 18, 2009
Frank was one of the most stimulating and engaging teachers that I have ever had, in or out of class. As a graduate student, I had the pleasure of being his teaching assistant twice. As a professor, I still use some of his jokes and illustrations to the point that I really should have been paying him royalties these past seven years. I am devastated by his and Harriet's passing. My deepest condolences go to their family.
Debbie Drago-Felker
February 18, 2009
To the Colavita family I extend my deepest sympathies. I was a summer work study in the Psychology department and later became a staff member of the department after college graduation. I had such wonderful times working there and with Dr. Colavita. He would always make me laugh no matter what type of day I was having and I loved the fun and joy that he brought to the office. He and his wife also were guests and my wedding and I have video of them dancing the night away. I'll always cherish the fun I had with Dr. Colavita and the wonderful memories will last forever.
Tania Bikerman
February 18, 2009
Frank was an important part of our Semester at Sea community and his humor and humanity was a great example for all of us. We will all miss him!
Bob and Carol Miller
February 18, 2009
We will always remember Frank for his energy, intensity and restlessness that no doubt were factors in his many accomplishments. He was very special and it was always a delight to be in his company. We grieve for his family on this terrible loss.
Vi Bikerman
February 18, 2009
Michael & Vi Bikerman cherish the many good memories of going around the world with Frank & his wife, Harriet on SAS'FOO. Frank was a wonderful professr & contributed a great deal to his students.They were good friends and delightful travel companions.
Dina Piscioneri-Collins
February 18, 2009
To the family of Frank Colavita, I had the pleasure of working for Frank as his secretary at Pitt for years. I was only 18yo when I started at Pitt and felt as if I grew up there. Frank was very supportive as I made my way through college there and always put smiles on our faces at work when he came in. I will never forget when he came to some major events in my life as support. Everyone at Pitt was wonderful to me, but he held a special place in my heart with his kindness and humor. I will miss him dearly.
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