Tieszen, Derk V. (1894-1960)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1960 Feb 11 p. 8

Birth date: 1894 Oct 19

text of obituary:

DR. DERK V. TIESZEN

Dr. Derk V. Tieszen, son of Rev. Derk P. and Helena Deckert Tieszen, was born Oct. 19, 1894 at Marion, South Dakota. He was baptized by his father on June 8, 1913 upon the confession of faith in Jesus Christ as his Saviour and became a member of the Bethesda Mennonite church.

He graduated from Freeman academy and went to Bethel college and then on to Yankton from where he graduated with an A. B. degree in1924. He then was in charge of teaching chemistry, physics and the sciences at Holdredge [sic Holdrege] High school, Holdridge [sic Holdrege], Neb., three years, after which he became chairman of the Physical Science department at Goshen college, Goshen, Ind. for two years.

He married Merle Wilson of Lincoln, Neb. on June 4, 1929, who remained his faithful companion and helpmate until his departure.

After receiving his Master’s Degree at the University of Colorado, he accepted a teaching position in the chemistry department at the New York State College for Teachers in Albany, New York, where he remained for the next 28 years until he retired last July due to ill health. He continued his education through these years and received a Ph.D. Degree from Ohio State university in 1945.

He did research work in starch chemistry and holds several United States patents in this field. Also during these years he progressed from an instructor to a professorship and Head of the Chemistry Department.

He was a member of the American Chemical Society, sigma Xi and many other professional organizations.

Upon his retirement, the Dr. Derk V. Tieszen Student Scholarship Fund at State College, Albany New York was established in his memory. All who wish may contribute to this fund.

Last September, he and his wife moved to Colorado Springs, Colo. and enjoyed living there until he was taken seriously ill the first part of this year. He passed away at Penrose hospital, Colorado Springs, on Jan. 22, 1960. He is survived by his beloved wife; three brothers, Abraham, John, and Benjamin; and four sisters, Mrs. Anna Becker, Mrs. Eva Krehbiel, Mrs. Agnetha Linscheid and Mrs. Amalia Unruh; and many relatives and friends.

His body was brought to South Dakota, where funeral services were conducted at the Bethesda Mennonite church near Marion, Rev. T. A. van der Smissen officiating.