JOHN GILBERT LEA, known to family and friends as "Biff," died by his own hand May 15, 1992, in Portland, Me.
A thirdgeneration Princetonian raised in Princeton, Biff entered the University with the Class of 1966 as a graduate of St. Paul's School in Conco;d, N.H. He took his meals at Ivy Club. He played freshman and junior varsity hockey.
Described by those close to him as having an "artist's soul," Biff earned his degree in English and French literature. His desire to serve others led him, after graduation, to Kenya as a member of the Peace Corps. He spent two years working at the Farmers Training Center in the Kianayga area of Kenya.
In 1971, Biff joined Tower Publishing, a business owned by his father, Gilbert Lca'36. He later assumed the presidency of Tower Publishing. He was an avid sportsman and an outstanding marksman. He was Maine State champion in skeet shooting.
He was past president and a member of the board of the Children's Museum of Maine, a member of the Portland Rotary Club and the Maine Conservation School Board. He also served on the Town of Pownal Budget Committee and on its conservation committee.
Biff is survived by his son Timothy, and three daughters, Robin, Molly, and Kathryn. In addition, he is survived by his mother, Nancy Nalle Genung; his stepfather Alfred G. Genung '3 1; his father, Gilbert Lea '36; and his uncle Langdon Jr. '31. His father and uncle are the sons of Langdon Lea 1896. Biff is also survived by a sister, Ann Lea Erdman, and a brother, Thomas. To each of them, the Class of 1966 offers its deepest condolences.
The Class of 1966