In Memoriam

Abstract

Carl R. Pratt, Jr. passed away on August 14, 2021, after a year-long battle with lymphoma. Carl was a professor emeritus at Immaculata University and had served as the editor for the Journal of the Pennsylvania Academy of Science since 2015. Carl earned a B.S. in biology in 1974 from Muhlenberg College and a Ph.D. in biology and ecology in 1979 from Syracuse University. He taught at several institutions including the College of New Rochelle, Marian College, Penn State Wilkes-Barre Campus, and SUNY Plattsburgh before taking the position at Immaculata.Carl’s research focused on ecology and the environment. He published on a wide variety of topics, included the ecology of gray squirrels, plant–animal interactions (including plant carnivory), environmental lead contamination, and habitat restoration. A long-time member of the Academy, Carl published two research articles in this Journal focused on lead contamination in wildflowers (Pratt and Sikorski 1982) and lead concentration in gray squirrels (Pratt 1988). He published many other articles in his long career.Carl enjoyed teaching and his duties as a faculty member. He taught a variety of courses including general biology, environmental biology, and ecology. Additionally, he served as department chair at both the College of New Rochelle and Immaculata University. Despite his administrative duties, he remained an engaged faculty member by teaching undergraduates and participating as a board member of the Academy.Carl was born in Coatesville, PA. Carl and his wife, Margie, were happily married for the past 33 years. They had one daughter, Nicole, who recently graduated from Albright College. Carl was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling with his family any chance he had.The Pennsylvania Academy of Science is indebted to Carl for his many years of faithful service. He will be missed.Stephen G. Mech