Obituary of Robert C. Ramsdell

Robert C. Ramsdell passed away on Monday, March 3, 2014, at St. Mary Medical Center, Langhorne, PA. He was a longtime resident of Bucks County. Born in 1920 in Trenton, NJ, son of Althea V. and Arthur Ramsdell. He was educated in the Trenton school system, graduating from Central HS in 1938, where he received an award for perfect attendance throughout his years in public school. He earned degrees from Lehigh University (B.A. 1943, Special honors in geology, Rutgers University (M.S. 1946), and Princeton University (M.A. and Ph.D. programs), completing his dissertation “Biostratigraphy of Cretaceous and Tertiary Marine Deposits of New Jersey.” During WW II, Bob served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army Combat Engineers in campaigns in New Guinea and the Philippines. His unit was awarded several commendations for valor and five battle stars. In civilian life, Bob was a professor of geology and paleontology, teaching at Williams College, Rutgers University, and Montclair State University, among other institutions. In addition to being a dedicated teacher, Bob was a co-founder of the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium, a nationally recognized research center for the responsible use of New Jersey’s coastal and marine environments. Bob took an early retirement in 1988 with Emeritus status, but he remained active in his field, publishing papers, conducting laboratory research, leading field trips, volunteering at the New Jersey State Museum, and speaking at rock, mineral, and fossil clubs. He was a lifetime member of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Trenton, where he served as a member of the Vestry. Bob enjoyed classical music, collecting stamps, and officiating at track events, swim competitions, and Little League and soccer games. He was a member of several science and philatelic societies and associations. He is survived by his wife Jane, and his daughter Barbara. A memorial service will be held for Bob on Saturday, March 15, at 11:00 AM at Trinity Cathedral, 801 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08618. There will be no calling hours. Interment will be private. Those wishing to commemorate Bob may make a donation to the flower fund for Trinity Cathedral. For more information about donating to the Trinity Cathedral flower fund or for directions to the memorial service, contact the Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors, 650 Lawrence Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, 609-396-8168. To make a condolence to the family or for directions please visit www.poulsonvanhise.com