Robert St. Clair Lesman

The beautiful life of Robert St. Clair Lesman began on May 26, 1976, and ended on September 25, 2025. He is survived by his wife, Julie and their sons Ilán and Kai of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, as well as his parents, Robert and Ann Lesman of Millwood, Virginia, his brother and sister-in law Charles and Tricia Lesman of Winchester, Virginia, his brother Alex Lesman of New York City, and extended family.

Rob grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, the youngest of three boys. He started piano lessons at an early age and enjoyed playing the piano throughout his life. He attended Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where he was a varsity athlete and an elected student leader. For college Rob went to Brown University, where he graduated with honors in comparative literature. He then moved to Austin for graduate studies at the University of Texas, where he earned Master's and Doctoral degrees in comparative literature with a focus on Latin America. He and Julie were married in Austin in 2004.

Rob started his teaching career the following year. For 19 years he was on the faculty at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. He published numerous articles, as well as the book Translating Cuba: Literature, Music, Film, Politics. He made many presentations at conferences and served his colleagues as department chair. The university presented him with awards for outstanding contribution to the honors program, mentorship, teaching innovations, and extraordinary service.

Rob will be remembered for his gentle nature, his kindness, his humor, and his compassion for all beings

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to Blue Lotus Buddhist Temple (PayPal: blueltpa@gmail.com) (Venmo: Bhante Soma)

The family of Dr. Robert Lesman will be hosting a Celebration of Life service on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 3:00 P.M. It will be held at the Luhrs Performing Arts Center on the campus of Shippensburg University. Doors open at 2:30 pm.

All are welcome.