Waldemar Ostermann, born June 15, 1933, in Lodz, Poland, died peacefully Feb. 7, 2010, in his Pennsyl-

vania home with his family at his side.

Walter, as he was known, survived the ravages of World War II in Poland and Germany. After the war, he and his family emigrated to America and settled in Philadelphia. Following graduation from Northeast High School, Walter came to Princeton.

After graduation he served in the Army in Europe, suffering severe duty-related injuries and receiving a medical discharge. Walter then resumed his studies, receiving a master’s degree in communication science and cybernetics from Penn’s Annenberg School and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. His career took him to professorships at Illinois and California universities, as well as work in the NASA Gemini spacecraft program at McDonnell Aircraft in St. Louis.

Most important in Walter’s life was his faith in Christ and God’s great plan of redemption. He loved Bible studies and served as a church elder. His wide range of interests included classical music, science, local charities, and veterans’ organizations, especially the Disabled American Veterans.

Walter is survived by his wife, Barbara (Marshall); his stepdaughter, Kathleen, and her husband; and numerous relatives in Germany and Canada. To them all, the class extends deepest sympathy.


Undergraduate Class of 1955