Herbert Epstein ’40

These are the words of old friend George Hamid: "Herb, known to his friends as Hyp, left us Aug. 8, 2003. His nickname resulted from a hypnotism course in his senior year as a psych major. The 'Hyper' became 'Hyp' even after he graduated with honors and Sigma Xi."

Prevented from joining WWII armed services as a result of a broken neck while attending Elmira [N.Y.] Academy, he did everything he could as a civilian to help.

Hyp's life and business were in Elmira, where after graduation he married Doris Baker. Their marriage would last 60 years. His primary business was insurance. When asked, "Why do you have so many small accounts when a couple of big ones would better serve you?" he answered, "I get to know more people."

People were his devoted interest. Anyone close to Hyp with a problem sought him out. He never turned a deaf ear. Former class treasurer and editor of our 40th yearbook, he never missed a reunion from 1946 through 2000, and attended almost always with Hamid and Arthur Schmitt.

Princetonians attending Hyp's Elmira services were George Hamid, Charlie Swartwood '39, Bill Tryon '53, son Mike '71, and daughter-in-law Carol '78. To them, daughter Kate, and widow Dorie, the class extends its deep sympathy.

The Class of 1940