Stirling A. Colgate

As a NMT graduate student, my girlfriend Ginny and I knew Sterling in the academic 1964-65 year. He was a kind, generous, inquisitive, pleasant man. I gave him the dozen or so 35-mm astronomy slides I had with me from NYC’s Museum of Natural History’s Hayden Planetarium. Sterling gave me a metallic bird incense burner as a wedding present.

A man of wide knowledge and abilities that he applied and shared generously, he was always exploring ideas. He was an unpretentious colleague who kept us all thinking.

I miss Stirling very much. Somehow, I still expect him to walk through the door of my office saying, " about that equation we discussed recently...". or, "Here's how we solve that problem". There will be anothr.

I will always remember Stirling as an amazing thinker, dedicated mentor and good friend. He could bring a creative new light to any subject. He also made great efforts to educate and look after the many people who passed through his life. He had so many stories. The Universe is a little less interesting now that he has passed.

Thank you Stirling for making Tech the most wonderful place to study in the world during the 70s by making it so humane and liberal while at the same time fostering academic excellence. I cannot express in words what influence that has had on my life. Thank you so!

Stirling was an inspiring president to us budding scientists at NMIMT. What an honor to have crossed paths with him; a time never to be forgotten. Leanna Grossman Minier

Enjoyed skiing and hiking with Stirling
and being a colleague in the lab.

My condolences. Stir was a larger than life person who enlivened and enlarged my life and so many others. He was supportive and unfailing kind to young scientists, and his iconoclastic approach to attacking science problems was inspiring. I will miss him.

Stirling was always there, pouring out new ideas and concepts at a fantastic rate. He never shrank from venturing an opinion. He was a good friend. Flying with him was an intense experience. He enriched all our lives, and we will miss him forever.

MS. Rosie,
Our colendences to you and the family on the passing of Mr. Colgate. Although we did not get to see him often, he was still a part of our family as well, here at Royal Crest
Steve & Peggy Gianes

My life was enriched by my friendship with Stirling. His love of life was contagious. His creativity was boundless. I learned so much from him. I miss him.

Anita & Anton Budding