Sid Bacon

The first day I walked into Sid's class - a 34 year old mother who's previous career was in sales - I was, needless to say a bit worried.  Within 5 minutes, Sid's easy going manner, sense of humor, and genuine warmth put me at ease.  His ability to make a technical subject accessible and interesting was never lost on me and he was so supportive and encouraging to all of his students.  Sid never hesitated to give praise, say a kind word, or inquire about student health and well-being and his class and professionalism were amazing.

When a student had to drop out of the program due to health issues, Sid always asked about her, sent her a lovely note, and truly showed a depth of concern for a woman he has only known for a short time.  At the end of the semester, Sid sent me a letter congratulating me for my excellent achievement in his class.  He made every efffort to make EVERY student feel special.

I have to say that in my very long and varied academic career, Sid will always stand out as someone who really made a difference and who truly made an impression on me.  I will never forget what an extraordinary teacher, person, and friend he was.  He will be missed.

 – Susan Smith

My fondest memory of Sid is when he was reading to Dan and Laura before they went to bed for the evening when they were small, no matter where they were. His soft soothing voice and the length of time Sid spent with them were touching. He seemed to have endless patience with both of his children. That patience has nurtured two very kind and caring individuals, very different in their persona, but both are nurturers like their parents. What a wonderful gift Sid bestowed to us through his offspring! Thank you, Sid, for being such a kind and caring person to all.

– Carter Ernst

Always one to root for the underdog, Sid volunteered to lead Team Downhill on the family’s summer bike ride. The plan was for the more experienced riders to start at the bottom of the hill and peddle their way up and the less ambitious ones started at the top and coast their way down.  As planned the two groups met half way for a picnic lunch. After consuming most of the cookies, Team Downhill was ready to resume their downward trek. As they looked to captain Sid to lead the charge, they noticed that he appeared to be in a deeply conflicted state. While his heart was with his loyal group of losers, his mind and body were telling him to go the other direction. A natural athlete and fierce competitor, Sid was never one to turn away from a challenge. Although he was a deeply compassionate person, on this occasion, he chose to pursue his personal ambitions. In his kink and gentle way, he turned to his troops and encouraged them to go on without him. While the ride down was slow and hard, Team Downhill eventually made it to the bottom. Even though the weary riders were without their captain, they knew in their hearts that Sid would always be on their side.

– Paul Kittelson

When I think back how I got where I am now, one word comes to my mind: Serendipity.  I was so lucky to have a few "serendipities" to change my life.  Sid was one of them.  He was the most genuine person I've ever known.  I will miss him tremendously as a mentor and a friend.

–      Jungmee Lee

Sid showed up on my door when I was working on my dissertation at the University of Kansas. He was a senior, and explained that he thought he was interested in hearing research and wanted to find out more about it. He volunteered to be a subject for me and for  the rest of the crew who were in dissertation mode (including Marjorie Leek), and to help us however he could. What an offer! We took him up on it.

Marjorie Leek and I were particularly impressed with young Sid. I arranged for him to come for a brief stint at Boys Town to do some work with Walt Jesteadt on his master’s thesis, and Marjorie and I talked to him about the perceived advantages and disadvantages of various doctoral programs (his working with Neal Viemeister was everyone’s first choice for him). Marjorie and I called him our Little Brother. Once he was in his doctoral program, he no longer needed our guidance, but he always remained a friend, and will always be our “Little Brother.” We have been so proud of him, every step of the way.

– Lynne Marshall