Gilbert Levine

After reading Gil's obituary, it is an understatement to say that it has been such an honor for me to have known Gil, share our time together over the decades, and reflect on his impact on me - not to mention his impact on his wonderful family, as well as generations of students and the entire world at large.

His style was legendary and yet so understated. His inability to retire (!) and for Cornell not to let him retire, are such a testament to his contributions at so many levels, to so many people. I have learned much about leadership from him.

Our hearts are with you, Ilma, and all of your family, in so many ways. What brilliance on your part to connect with Gil in the first place.

All my love,
Charlie Trautmann

I first met Gil as a graduate student in 1973. From our first meeting, Gil encouraged and supported my studies and research interests. Gil was a creative and insightful mentor. As a former Peace Corps Volunteer, I was immediately drawn to Gil's experience and interest in international development. It was something we continued to share through the years. My last visit with Gil was in the summer of 2020 and we shared memories of the people and projects we had participated in over the years. Gil was such wonderful role model for me as I progressed through academia and later with nonprofit organizations. Even more than his outstanding academic career, Gil was a thoughtful, inspiring and compassionate human being. He will be greatly missed. Paul Robillard, Portland, Oregon

My condolences and what an amazing life!

It seems like lifetimes ago when Gil was my boss at Cornell, but I´ve tried to apply lessons from his humble yet bold leadership style throughout my career. He was respected and beloved in his countless professional roles, always willing to lend a hand and do it with heart. His passing leaves a hole in my heart!

This photo shows our celebration of Ilma and Gil's 70th wedding anniversary in 2020, with candle flames blown out with vinegar and baking soda fumes to celebrate their love of science while avoiding spreading germs during the height of the covid epidemic.