Dr. Kenneth E. Batker
Professor of Mathematics
“Ken would champion any good idea that served the rank and file and that furthered our endeavors as a community of scholars and eager students — all of this with the pervasive thread of his usual smile and constructive, helpful outlook.”
Date of Death: November 18, 2025
Dr. Kwong-Tin Tang
Professor Emeritus of Physics
“He was a pioneer in his field of study, and demanded a lot of his students, but he did not wear his fame on his sleeve.”
Date of Death: November 27, 2025
Helen Nordquist
University Staff Member and Community Builder
“For the past half century and more, Phil and Helen Nordquist have carried the DNA and modeled the very essence of learning, faith and community that is Pacific Lutheran University.”
Date of Death: December 20, 2025
Dr. Philip A. Nordquist
Professor Emeritus of History and University Historian
“Phil Nordquist is PLU—its heart, its essence. Wherever Phil goes, ambling slowly across campus, walking into the classroom… Phil Nordquist literally is Pacific Lutheran University.”
Date of Death: February 6, 2026
Dr. Don Wentworth
Professor Emeritus of Economics
“Don’s impact reached far beyond his published research and the walls of his classroom.”
Date of Death: April 26, 2026
Dr. William 'Bill' Giddings
Professor Emeritus of Chemistry
“A foundational figure in our scientific community, Bill dedicated 36 years of his life to teaching, leadership, and service at Pacific Lutheran University.”
Date of Death: May 10, 2026
Jamey Hilton
Administrative Assistant in the Office of Admission
“She lived by the words, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do to you,’ and she made a powerful difference in the lives of others. She will be sorely missed.”
Date of Death: July 21, 2026