Earl S. Doderer *70

Earl Doderer, a retired professor of engineering at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, died Feb. 16, 2011. He was 76.

After graduating from Union College in 1956, Doderer began a 21-year career in the Air Force. He served in Vietnam, rose to the rank of colonel, and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for a low-fuel, late-night mission over Laos, where he kept a village lighted with flares thereby saving it from enemy attack.

At Princeton, he earned a master of science degree in civil engineering (1963) a master of arts in civil engineering (1966), and a Ph.D. in civil and geological engineering in 1970.

Doderer retired from the service in 1977, and started a second 21-year career at Trinity. He was a professor and chair of the engineering department who selflessly guided many students, educationally and personally.

Doderer is survived by Sylvia, his wife of 53 years; four children; and 12 grandchildren. 

Graduate memorials are prepared by the APGA.