Theodore Henry Ansbacher

1939 - 2022
Theodore Henry Ansbacher passed away peacefully at his home in White Plains, NY, on January 31 at the age of 82. He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara, and his two adoring children, Charles and Emily. Ted was born in New York City on February 19, 1939, to Heinz and Rowena Ansbacher, and grew up in Burlington, VT, with his two older brothers, Max and Ben, and his younger brother, Charles. He attended the Deerfield Academy, received an undergraduate degree in material science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and received a PhD in physics from the University of Vermont. Professionally, Ted taught physics at New College in Sarasota, FL and Lafayette College in Easton, PA, served as the Director of Exhibits and Senior Scientist at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, IL, and the Director of Exhibits at the New York Hall of Science in Queens, NY.



Ted's fascination with the natural world - both the forces that make it work, and the life that makes it beautiful - inspired not only his career in science and education, but countless passions, which included skiing, writing, photography, and playing bluegrass and folk music on the guitar. He shared those passions with all who he encountered, especially during his annual ski trip to Alta, UT, and at the summer home he shared with his family in Elizaville, NY.



Ted was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He was loved and respected as a beacon of kindness, patience, integrity, and good humor. He will be dearly missed and always remembered. As his wife, Barbara, would say, he is now unencumbered in the light. And as Ted would say, take it easy, but take it.