John E. Dohms Ph.D. of Newark, Delaware. (April 5, 1948 – February 28, 2014). Born in New York City, Dohms was the son of the late Herbert S. and Jean E. (Pardee) Dohms of Crystal Falls, Michigan. After graduating from Fair Lawn High School (N.J.) in 1966, John graduated from Bowling Green State University withContinue Reading
John E. Dohms Ph.D. of Newark, Delaware. (April 5, 1948 – February 28, 2014).
Born in New York City, Dohms was the son of the late Herbert S. and Jean E. (Pardee) Dohms of Crystal Falls, Michigan. After graduating from Fair Lawn High School (N.J.) in 1966, John graduated from Bowling Green State University with B.S. (1970) and M.S. (1972) degrees in biology and earned his Ph.D. in Veterinary Microbiology from The Ohio State University in 1977. He was a member of the faculty in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at the University of Delaware for 32 years, retiring in 2009 with the rank of Professor of Microbiology of Infectious Diseases. His research focused on the pathology of avian disease. John’s former students have praised his inspirational teaching and his impact on their lives and careers. In addition to being a collegiate lacrosse player and lifelong fan of that sport, John was an avid athlete and outdoorsman who could frequently be found swimming, running, whitewater rafting or biking. He took many trips with his friends to experience the outdoors in Central and South America, Africa, New Zealand, and the United States, and to pursue his passions that also included fly-fishing and birding.
He is survived by his partner Kim A. Herrman of Newark, Del., his brothers Peter Dohms of Payson, Az., and James Dohms of Bradenton, Fla., his nine nieces and nephews, as well as numerous friends and colleagues.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made in John’s name and suggests some of his favorite causes and institutions, including the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources at the University of Delaware, Trout Unlimited, and the National Audubon Society. The details of a memorial service will be announced at a future date.
Amy Lesniak
left a message on October 20, 2014:
I only learned today of Dr. Dohms' passing, and my heart is aching. Dr. Dohms was a professor without equal for me; I remember him fondly as my favorite teacher in any subject at any level. He could teach complex science in a way that made it not only understandable, but fascinating, and his love for the material and for his students was always palpable. I was stunned and honored to be welcomed into his lab as a junior when he agreed to be my mentor for my senior thesis, because in my mind he was like a "rock star" of science. It didn't hurt his image, either, that my non-AG friends knew him as the "Guy from the Deer Park", because of the times we'd run into him hanging out there. He was so much fun, so down-to-earth and easy to relate to. I have never forgotten him, nor will I. As my professor and mentor, his support helped me get into vet school and had a major impact on the rest of my life. Even though I haven't seen or spoken with him in almost 20 years, I know I will miss him forever.
Peter Heymann
left a message on March 25, 2014:
My strongest memories of John go back to our days together on the FLHS soccer team. We played together from junior high through high school and were co-captains in our senior year. Johnny was a terrific athlete, strong yet quiet competitor and leader. He was a class act always with comfort and command. I know John went on to excel in academia and teaching. I am sure he inspired many, many students over his long career as college professor. I was so saddened to hear about John's recent challenges and tragic passing. My thoughts and best wishes go out to his partner and brothers Peter and Jim and the whole family. When I think of John I will always remember the joy of playing soccer together on a wonderful team. I can see him running, gliding, down the sideline cutting to the goal. Peace, Peter Heymann
Emily
left a message on March 21, 2014:
Godspeed to this wonderful man. Condolences to family and friends.
Kathy Giordanella
left a message on March 12, 2014:
John and I were friends in high school that extended into our college years. He was alway so pure of heart, kind, sharing, helpful, humorous, with the most wonderful smile. I will deeply miss him. Condolences to his family. Peace to John.
Christine Bongiorno
left a message on March 12, 2014:
I was a student in the College of Ag from 1990-94. I majored in Animal Sci/Pre-vet. I met Dr. Dohms in my Immunology class which quickly became one of my favorites. Dr. Dohms had an amazing fun and easy way of explaining the complexities of the immune systems of animals. This served me VERY well in veterinary school and beyond, in private practice. I loved the MMR we shared which were fun, quirky cases of often zoonotic diseases that were both learning experiences and a good time. I remember him swimming at the pool in the summer and many girls that swooned over him! But I simply saw him as a very brilliant yet very human being. He was easy to access and had a passion in all he was involved with. I remember him telling us stories of his trips overseas - esp that when he went to Africa and how vicious those hippos could be (going after river boats and trying to knock them over to hunt humans down). I TA'd for him in my junior/senior years as a pre-vet student and I appreciated his vote of confidence and being able to work with his grad students too as an undergrad researcher. He was completely supportive of all of our goals/dreams. You are absolutely fondly remembered Dr. John Dohms. Thank you for being a part of MY life and my very happy and successful career as a veterinarian.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Patti Dooling
left a message on March 11, 2014:
I didn't know John but we followed closely what was going on. Growing up in Newark and living here now really hits home! It is very sad but now he is finally home!
Robin Fio Rito
left a message on March 11, 2014:
Dr. Dohms stands out to me as one of two extraordinary professors I had as a student. I was fortunate enough to join his class on infectious diseases while completing my undergraduate degree in Animal Science at University of Delaware. He was wonderful at motivating us to learn and seek knowledge for the sake of bettering ourselves as professionals, not just to pass an exam. I am now a veterinarian and teach veterinary students at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. I attribute this success in part to Dr. Dohms. He will be missed by many and remembered by all of his students as a caring dedicated professor. My heart felt condolences go out to his family, friends and all of the other students, faculty and staff at University of Delaware that were lucky enough to cross paths with him.
Chad Johnson
left a message on March 11, 2014:
John (always Dr. Dohms to me) was my favorite professor in Animal Science. He was so intelligent, engaging and funny, which made going to class so enjoyable. A favorite memory is him reading from MMWR and having us doubled over at some of the stories, regardless of how dreadful the story may have been. His professional manner and joy in teaching is certainly one of the reasons I went on to pursue my doctorate in Animal Science. Our thoughts are with his family.
Matt Parker
left a message on March 10, 2014:
if not for Dr. Dohms, I'm not sure I would've graduated. He was a great advisor and professor. Indebted forever to him. regards, Matt
Sally Russo Pollard
left a message on March 10, 2014:
John was a wonderful teacher, mentor and friend. Thank you for all you added my life friend.
Isabelle Lajoie
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was my advisor at UD and I took Infection Diseases with him. I'll always remember his passion about his subject matter. But for some reason, the one thing that always sticks in my mind was his story about a fungus that was discovered that was miles long and how the town where it was discovered had t-shirts made that read "There's a humongous fungus among us." I know it's silly but that memory has always made me smile.
Melissa Luts-Girnius
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Professor Dohms was a great asset to the UD community. He was one of the memorable and by far my favorite Professor during my time in the Animal Sciences program at UD. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.
Rachael A Martin
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was an inspiration. I had the pleasure of working in his lab for a semester, and he was kind enough to introduce me to everyone, and to microliter pipetting, before leaving me in very capable hands. I fondly recall that introduction to pipetting small volumes, and how he pointed out, with a big smile, that my drops were not at all consistent. He also reassured me that I would get it :) His enthusiasm and positive attitude was infectious.
Curtis Line
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was a wonderful professor and I learned so much in his classes. He will be greatly missed, my heart goes out to his family and friends.
Elaine Dohms
left a message on March 9, 2014:
John was such a great part of our family. Every year at Christmas he would come to be with us at Christmas. We would change our venue and go to the Lake house in the summer. I will always remember John on our canoeing adventure. He had the canoe with both teenage girls. He kept saying, "no you can't stand I. A canoe, you'll tip it over, no sit down , don't stand up." We all lost count of how many times john.'s canoe and contents tipped over. So many wonderful memories and great times. Thank you John for making my life so much better and happier. You were a great brother.
Michael Price
left a message on March 8, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was a wonderful mentor. He taught me how to be an academic scientist, and I will be forever grateful to him for sharing his passion of science with me. May he rest in peace.
Will Webber
left a message on March 8, 2014:
http://willwebberhomes.com/requiem-for-a-friend/
Linda Hnatow
left a message on March 7, 2014:
Kim and brothers, Now he can truly rest in peace. He was a great guy and as most who knew him, I have many stories that I could tell. But above all, he was a good guy with a big heart. He will be remembered by us with love, respect, and a touch of sadness in his absence. best regards, Linda Hnatow and Michael Tilson
Bernard Kaplan
left a message on March 7, 2014:
As a child, I ran around the parks of Rradburn, New Jersey with John and his brotherWV8s. As an adult I was on the faculty with him at The University of Delaware. He was a wonderful kid in a wonderful family. He grew to become a good good man who was a credit to that family, his university and his field.
Nancy Lynam
left a message on March 6, 2014:
It was my pleasure to work with Dr. Dohms in the Student Services Office of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Even though he carried very heavy work load he kept a positive attitude, smiling and cheering us on as a team. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues, family and friends. Sincerely Nancy Lynam
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Carol Ronneburger=Janas
left a message on March 6, 2014:
May you forever Rest In Peace
Susan Cook
left a message on March 6, 2014:
Dr. Dohms had the greatest influence on me of any educator at any stage of my life. I would not be as successful in my career as I am now without his instruction and inspiration.
Louise Curtis Seidl
left a message on March 5, 2014:
I remember John so fondly. We were both raised in Radburn. His house overlooked beautiful R park with the playing field, the swimming pool, tot-lot, the summer house, and the stone bench. He was such a nice, unassuming fellow who went on to do great things. I remember him as the co-captain of our soccer team. I enjoyed talking to him at our 20th high school reunion, where we joked about how surreal it all was.
Lauren Sosanie Sampson
left a message on March 5, 2014:
John was one of the sweetest, kindest, and smartest guys in our graduating class. He also had a wonderfully dry sense of humor. I am so sad for his partner, Kim, and for his family and the many friends colleagues and students who loved and respected him. May he live in heaven enjoying eternal peace and happiness, and may his memory live on in our hearts.
Jeffrey Becker
left a message on March 5, 2014:
I have known John Dohms for nearly my entire life and consider him a part of my family. As a person John managed to blend well his deep intellect with his zany kind-heartedness and he was always fun to be around. I always appreciated John's stories - whether they were about some of his globetrotting adventures or tales about things happening in his lab or research - as they were always fun. As an academic myself, John has always been a great role model and I can see how his students were so lucky to have him as both teacher and mentor. I think, perhaps, it was a deep and abiding curiosity that drove John to research, learn, travel, and explore - I try to take that same approach in my own work. I shall miss John a lot, but will always hold dear the memories of the times spent together.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Amy Lesniak
left a message on October 20, 2014:
I only learned today of Dr. Dohms' passing, and my heart is aching. Dr. Dohms was a professor without equal for me; I remember him fondly as my favorite teacher in any subject at any level. He could teach complex science in a way that made it not only understandable, but fascinating, and his love for the material and for his students was always palpable. I was stunned and honored to be welcomed into his lab as a junior when he agreed to be my mentor for my senior thesis, because in my mind he was like a "rock star" of science. It didn't hurt his image, either, that my non-AG friends knew him as the "Guy from the Deer Park", because of the times we'd run into him hanging out there. He was so much fun, so down-to-earth and easy to relate to. I have never forgotten him, nor will I. As my professor and mentor, his support helped me get into vet school and had a major impact on the rest of my life. Even though I haven't seen or spoken with him in almost 20 years, I know I will miss him forever.
Peter Heymann
left a message on March 25, 2014:
My strongest memories of John go back to our days together on the FLHS soccer team. We played together from junior high through high school and were co-captains in our senior year. Johnny was a terrific athlete, strong yet quiet competitor and leader. He was a class act always with comfort and command. I know John went on to excel in academia and teaching. I am sure he inspired many, many students over his long career as college professor. I was so saddened to hear about John's recent challenges and tragic passing. My thoughts and best wishes go out to his partner and brothers Peter and Jim and the whole family. When I think of John I will always remember the joy of playing soccer together on a wonderful team. I can see him running, gliding, down the sideline cutting to the goal. Peace, Peter Heymann
Emily
left a message on March 21, 2014:
Godspeed to this wonderful man. Condolences to family and friends.
Kathy Giordanella
left a message on March 12, 2014:
John and I were friends in high school that extended into our college years. He was alway so pure of heart, kind, sharing, helpful, humorous, with the most wonderful smile. I will deeply miss him. Condolences to his family. Peace to John.
Christine Bongiorno
left a message on March 12, 2014:
I was a student in the College of Ag from 1990-94. I majored in Animal Sci/Pre-vet. I met Dr. Dohms in my Immunology class which quickly became one of my favorites. Dr. Dohms had an amazing fun and easy way of explaining the complexities of the immune systems of animals. This served me VERY well in veterinary school and beyond, in private practice. I loved the MMR we shared which were fun, quirky cases of often zoonotic diseases that were both learning experiences and a good time. I remember him swimming at the pool in the summer and many girls that swooned over him! But I simply saw him as a very brilliant yet very human being. He was easy to access and had a passion in all he was involved with. I remember him telling us stories of his trips overseas - esp that when he went to Africa and how vicious those hippos could be (going after river boats and trying to knock them over to hunt humans down). I TA'd for him in my junior/senior years as a pre-vet student and I appreciated his vote of confidence and being able to work with his grad students too as an undergrad researcher. He was completely supportive of all of our goals/dreams. You are absolutely fondly remembered Dr. John Dohms. Thank you for being a part of MY life and my very happy and successful career as a veterinarian.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Patti Dooling
left a message on March 11, 2014:
I didn't know John but we followed closely what was going on. Growing up in Newark and living here now really hits home! It is very sad but now he is finally home!
Robin Fio Rito
left a message on March 11, 2014:
Dr. Dohms stands out to me as one of two extraordinary professors I had as a student. I was fortunate enough to join his class on infectious diseases while completing my undergraduate degree in Animal Science at University of Delaware. He was wonderful at motivating us to learn and seek knowledge for the sake of bettering ourselves as professionals, not just to pass an exam. I am now a veterinarian and teach veterinary students at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. I attribute this success in part to Dr. Dohms. He will be missed by many and remembered by all of his students as a caring dedicated professor. My heart felt condolences go out to his family, friends and all of the other students, faculty and staff at University of Delaware that were lucky enough to cross paths with him.
Chad Johnson
left a message on March 11, 2014:
John (always Dr. Dohms to me) was my favorite professor in Animal Science. He was so intelligent, engaging and funny, which made going to class so enjoyable. A favorite memory is him reading from MMWR and having us doubled over at some of the stories, regardless of how dreadful the story may have been. His professional manner and joy in teaching is certainly one of the reasons I went on to pursue my doctorate in Animal Science. Our thoughts are with his family.
Matt Parker
left a message on March 10, 2014:
if not for Dr. Dohms, I'm not sure I would've graduated. He was a great advisor and professor. Indebted forever to him. regards, Matt
Sally Russo Pollard
left a message on March 10, 2014:
John was a wonderful teacher, mentor and friend. Thank you for all you added my life friend.
Isabelle Lajoie
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was my advisor at UD and I took Infection Diseases with him. I'll always remember his passion about his subject matter. But for some reason, the one thing that always sticks in my mind was his story about a fungus that was discovered that was miles long and how the town where it was discovered had t-shirts made that read "There's a humongous fungus among us." I know it's silly but that memory has always made me smile.
Melissa Luts-Girnius
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Professor Dohms was a great asset to the UD community. He was one of the memorable and by far my favorite Professor during my time in the Animal Sciences program at UD. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.
Rachael A Martin
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was an inspiration. I had the pleasure of working in his lab for a semester, and he was kind enough to introduce me to everyone, and to microliter pipetting, before leaving me in very capable hands. I fondly recall that introduction to pipetting small volumes, and how he pointed out, with a big smile, that my drops were not at all consistent. He also reassured me that I would get it :) His enthusiasm and positive attitude was infectious.
Curtis Line
left a message on March 10, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was a wonderful professor and I learned so much in his classes. He will be greatly missed, my heart goes out to his family and friends.
Elaine Dohms
left a message on March 9, 2014:
John was such a great part of our family. Every year at Christmas he would come to be with us at Christmas. We would change our venue and go to the Lake house in the summer. I will always remember John on our canoeing adventure. He had the canoe with both teenage girls. He kept saying, "no you can't stand I. A canoe, you'll tip it over, no sit down , don't stand up." We all lost count of how many times john.'s canoe and contents tipped over. So many wonderful memories and great times. Thank you John for making my life so much better and happier. You were a great brother.
Michael Price
left a message on March 8, 2014:
Dr. Dohms was a wonderful mentor. He taught me how to be an academic scientist, and I will be forever grateful to him for sharing his passion of science with me. May he rest in peace.
Will Webber
left a message on March 8, 2014:
http://willwebberhomes.com/requiem-for-a-friend/
Linda Hnatow
left a message on March 7, 2014:
Kim and brothers, Now he can truly rest in peace. He was a great guy and as most who knew him, I have many stories that I could tell. But above all, he was a good guy with a big heart. He will be remembered by us with love, respect, and a touch of sadness in his absence. best regards, Linda Hnatow and Michael Tilson
Bernard Kaplan
left a message on March 7, 2014:
As a child, I ran around the parks of Rradburn, New Jersey with John and his brotherWV8s. As an adult I was on the faculty with him at The University of Delaware. He was a wonderful kid in a wonderful family. He grew to become a good good man who was a credit to that family, his university and his field.
Nancy Lynam
left a message on March 6, 2014:
It was my pleasure to work with Dr. Dohms in the Student Services Office of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Even though he carried very heavy work load he kept a positive attitude, smiling and cheering us on as a team. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues, family and friends. Sincerely Nancy Lynam
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Carol Ronneburger=Janas
left a message on March 6, 2014:
May you forever Rest In Peace
Susan Cook
left a message on March 6, 2014:
Dr. Dohms had the greatest influence on me of any educator at any stage of my life. I would not be as successful in my career as I am now without his instruction and inspiration.
Louise Curtis Seidl
left a message on March 5, 2014:
I remember John so fondly. We were both raised in Radburn. His house overlooked beautiful R park with the playing field, the swimming pool, tot-lot, the summer house, and the stone bench. He was such a nice, unassuming fellow who went on to do great things. I remember him as the co-captain of our soccer team. I enjoyed talking to him at our 20th high school reunion, where we joked about how surreal it all was.
Lauren Sosanie Sampson
left a message on March 5, 2014:
John was one of the sweetest, kindest, and smartest guys in our graduating class. He also had a wonderfully dry sense of humor. I am so sad for his partner, Kim, and for his family and the many friends colleagues and students who loved and respected him. May he live in heaven enjoying eternal peace and happiness, and may his memory live on in our hearts.
Jeffrey Becker
left a message on March 5, 2014:
I have known John Dohms for nearly my entire life and consider him a part of my family. As a person John managed to blend well his deep intellect with his zany kind-heartedness and he was always fun to be around. I always appreciated John's stories - whether they were about some of his globetrotting adventures or tales about things happening in his lab or research - as they were always fun. As an academic myself, John has always been a great role model and I can see how his students were so lucky to have him as both teacher and mentor. I think, perhaps, it was a deep and abiding curiosity that drove John to research, learn, travel, and explore - I try to take that same approach in my own work. I shall miss John a lot, but will always hold dear the memories of the times spent together.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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