Laird U. Park Jr. ’44

Laird died Jan. 14, 2001, in Philadelphia. He leaves his wife of almost 50 years, Lucy, four daughters, and six grandchildren.

Coming from The Hill, Laird was on freshman crew and captained the varsity. Majoring in mechanical engineering, he was president of Colonial Club. He roomed with George Wadsworth until he enlisted in the Navy in 1943, serving on a destroyer escort in the Pacific, achieving the rank of ensign. He returned to Princeton to get his degree in economics in 1947.

Laird started his career with Smith, Kline and French, then rose to the presidency of Troemer, Inc., a manufacturer of laboratory apparatus. He was active in Eisenhower's 1953 campaign and served with the Red Cross and the United Fund. He was a board member of the Independence Seaport Museum and the Library Co. of Philadelphia.

He collected Americana and traveled and read widely. He never missed a major reunion and attended 11 others, as well. Always easy to spot at six feet, five inches tall, we shall miss his friendly demeanor, his keen sense of humor, and his love of Princeton. With his family, we deeply share his loss.

The Class of 1944