im passed away earlier today. He was in his late seventies. Jim was an icon at UTAMPA for over 43 years. He taught us, young profs then, the ropes. He led by example — teaching us about a ‘student first’ culture. And a culture based on camaraderie and celebrating each other’s successes.
Alan and I affectionately named him Uncle Fester. He had a wry sense of humor and a fun-loving spirit. He was a quiet, kind man, who was usually the first guy in the building, firing up the coffee even before the roosters were up.
Today, the tears flowed easily, thinking about a man who touched my life in so
many positive ways. He was a die hard Gators fan and bought Jasmine her first Gators teeshirt. Her photo in that teeshirt sat on his shelf for all those years.
I will miss you Jim. Thanks for teaching me the ropes and for being a great buddy. UT was never the same after you retired. I know your spirit will certainly live on. Rest In Peace.
About Hemant Rustogi