James A. Nelson
James A. Nelson, UI professor emeritus of ceramic engineering, died Feb. 19. He was 77.
Nelson retired from the university in 1989 but continued to teach and advise students until his death.
After earning a bachelor's degree in ceramic engineering from the UI in 1941, he was employed by U.S. Steel Corp.
As a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, he saw action in the Philippines during World War II. Following discharge from service he was employed by the Universal Atlas Cement Co. In 1948 he returned to the UI as a research assistant and began graduate studies; he received a master's degree in 1952 and his doctorate in 1958. He taught courses in refractories, design, drying and firing.
Nelson received the Pierce Award from the College of Engineering in 1983 in recognition of his efforts in student-faculty relations. He was a member of the refractories division of the American Ceramic Society and was named a fellow in 1975.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy; a daughter; and a son.
Norman Donze
Norman Glennon Donze, a former UI employee, died April 16 at his Urbana home. He was 70.
Donze was employed by the UI's department of mechanical engineering for 35 years. He was a senior foundry molder. He retired in 1985.
He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Urbana. He was a third- and fourth-degree member of the Twin City Knights of Columbus. He also was a member of American Legion Post 71 and the Forty and Eight Voiture 238. He served in the U.S. Navy in World War II.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; a son; two daughters; and six grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Carle Hospice or St. Patrick's
Catholic Church.
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