Walter A. Compton ’33

Body

WALT COMPTON, described by the N.Y. TIMES as "a doctor who rose to head Miles Laboratories," died in Elkhart, Ind., Oct. I 1, 1990.

Walt was born Apr. 22, 1911, in Elkhart. He prepared at Elkhart High and at Mercersburg. In college he was a member of Dial Lodge, and roomed with Chuck Hellerson. After college Walt went to Harvard medical School, receiving his M.D. in 1937. in 1939 he joined Miles Labs as medical and research director. His work led to many wellknown products, including Onea-Day vitamins and Bactine. He retired in 1981 as chairman and was named honorary chairman.

During WWII Walt served in the Army Medical Corps in Japan as a It. colonel. He was awarded a medal by the order of the Rising Sun for his work in Occupied Japan. He became interested in Japanese and Oriental art, eventually forming a notable collection.

On June 22, 1935, Walt married Charlie Emerson's sister Phoebe, in Indianapolis. She survives him, as do their children, Cynthia Mosher, Joan Compton, Phoebe Brandt, Walter, and Gordon. A sister, Dorothy Barkey, a brother, George, and seven grandchildren also survive. The Class of'33 has suffered a severe loss. To the family we express our deep sympathy.

The Class of 1933

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