Jud Keim ‘86
Alumnus and former coach Jud Keim ‘86, a beloved member of the Lute community, passed away in September 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jud left an indelible mark on campus, first as a four-year letter winner in both football and track and field. He was a two-time All-Conference running back, and his energy, passion, and competitive spirit, known to many as “Keim Time,” were a hallmark of his return to PLU as a coach.
After joining the coaching staff in 2004, Jud served in various key roles, including defensive coordinator, special teams coordinator, and interim head coach. He was instrumental in guiding the Lutes to the NCAA Division III Tournament in 2012 and 2013, helping to maintain PLU’s reputation as a top-ranked defense. More than a coach, he was a mentor who dedicated his career to developing student-athletes into great people, a philosophy he learned from his own playing days under legendary coach Frosty Westering.
Jud’s connection to PLU ran deep. His wife, Sari ’87, and two children, Kalen and Jace ’22, are also Lute alumni, with Jace having played for his father on the football team. The PLU community joins family and friends in celebrating the life, legacy, and spirit of Jud Keim.
Gary Severson
Gary Severson, a dedicated leader and former Chair of the Pacific Lutheran University Board of Regents, passed away in August 2025 at the age of 81. Gary served as a Regent for over a decade, from 2004 to 2014, and led the Board as its chair from 2010 to 2013. His vision and leadership were instrumental in guiding the university through a period of significant growth and change.
A successful business executive, Gary had a distinguished career in banking with leadership positions at Bank of America, Security Pacific, and First Interstate Bank. He was recognized for his extensive board service, chairing organizations like Laird Norton Financial Group and Casey Family Programs. In 2019, his contributions were honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for board work from the Puget Sound Business Journal.
Gary will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his warm spirit and dedication to his family. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire the PLU community.
Edward “Ed” Wayne Anderson
Edward “Ed” Anderson, a beloved PLU basketball coach and a legendary figure in collegiate sports, passed away peacefully in August 2025. Ed began his coaching career at PLU in 1974, becoming head coach of the men’s basketball team in 1976. He transformed the Lutes into a powerhouse in the Northwest Conference before his departure in 1983.
A true multi-sport athlete, Ed was the first University of Montana Grizzly to be named All-Conference in three sports: basketball, football, and baseball. His talent as a catcher even led to a contract with the New York Yankees during the golden era of Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford, and Yogi Berra.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Ed’s true calling was coaching and education. He was known for seeing his athletes as more than just players and his students as individuals with limitless potential. He authored multiple books on the art of coaching and the science of basketball, sharing his wisdom and wit with countless others. Ed’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the athletes he mentored, the students he taught, and the stories he told. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Myra Baughman ‘62
Professor Emerita Myra Baughman ‘62, a beloved PLU alumna, passed away in November 2024. Myra dedicated 35 years to the PLU School of Education, beginning in 1970. She served with distinction as a teacher, assistant professor, professor, and dean.
Myra’s passion for education and insatiable hunger for knowledge were lifelong. In 1974, with her husband Jerry’s support, she moved to Lincoln, Nebraska with her two young daughters to earn her Ph.D. at an accelerated pace. At PLU, she authored textbooks, mentored student teachers, and even homeschooled her granddaughter. Post-retirement, she continued her involvement with Concordia and Mount Rainier Lutheran School.
Beyond her professional life, Myra loved to travel. Her work enabled trips to China and Japan to teach English. In retirement, she found a wonderful travel companion in Carol, and together they embarked on many adventures, including an African safari. Myra also cherished gardening, transforming her yard into a vibrant sanctuary of roses, flowers, plants, and trees.
Sue Sawyer
Recent PLU retiree Sue Sawyer, born Pamela Susanne Chipperfield, passed away in December 2024. Born August 12, 1950, in Nottingham, England, Sue was a spirited soul whose contagious humor brightened every life she touched.
Sue dedicated over 20 years to PLU’s Facilities Department, starting as a housekeeper in 2002 and becoming a custodian in 2008, before retiring in May 2024. Prior to PLU, she worked as a machinist in the Nottingham Lace Factory. After immigrating to Tacoma, Wash., she began her fulfilling career in housekeeping. Outside of work, Sue was an avid crafter, creating projects that brought joy to many.
