Paul S. Symonds

SYMONDS, PAUL S., 88, died at home March 28. He had taught at Brown University since 1951, becoming Professor in 1954. Professor Symonds served as Chairman of the Division of Engineering from 1959 through 1962.

Born in Manila, PI, he brought a love of travel and languages to his work with students and his research. In addition to Brown, he studied and taught at Cambridge University, University College of Swansea, Wales, and Oxford University. He was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Mons, Belgium and was the author of more than 95 publications. His students now work around the world: a 1996 tribute volume has contributions from Israel, Italy, New Zealand, France, California, Estonia and Chicago. He was a considered a critical contributor to the fields of plasticity and nonlinear dynamics.

In recent years Paul has been the devoted caregiver of his wife Ilese. After 60 years of marriage he devoted himself to providing the very best care for her as she suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Paul Symonds is survived by Ilese and two sons.

A memorial will be held on Friday, 8 April, at 12:30 p.m. in Room 190 at the Giancarlo Engineering Laboratories at the Division of Engineering, 182 Hope Street in Providence. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Comprehensive Adult Day Center at 229 Waterman Street.