Edith Lank, American Author, Died at 96

Edith Lank: A Multifaceted American Luminary

Edith Lank, born on February 27, 1926, and departing on January 1, 2023, was a distinguished American author, renowned advice columnist, and prolific blogger from Rochester, New York. Her life was a tapestry of significant contributions in the realms of real estate, literature, and aging, leaving an indelible mark on each.

Pioneering Authorship and Real Estate Expertise

Edith Lank's literary journey comprised the authorship or co-authorship of ten books, primarily centered on the intricate world of real estate. Her works, including the acclaimed "Home Buyers Kit" and "Home Sellers Kit," served as invaluable guides, offering practical wisdom to individuals navigating the complexities of property transactions. Edith's profound knowledge made her a trusted beacon for those seeking guidance in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.

Her syndicated weekly real estate column graced the pages of more than 100 newspapers and websites, where she provided readers with priceless insights and solutions to their real estate quandaries. With her astute counsel, Edith earned the endearing moniker "the Dear Abby of real estate," a tribute to her sagacity and influence.

Adventures in Aging

In addition to her real estate prowess, Edith Lank embarked on a digital adventure, creating '86 and Holding,' a captivating blog dedicated to sharing her life experiences and illuminating insights into the intricacies of aging gracefully. Her uplifting perspective on the joys and challenges of senior life resonated with readers, offering a unique and encouraging outlook.

A Devoted Jane Austen Enthusiast

Beyond her professional endeavors, Edith Lank was an ardent devotee of the esteemed author Jane Austen. Her extensive collection comprised hundreds of editions and related materials, a testament to her deep-seated appreciation for Austen's literary legacy. Notably, she possessed a rare copy of Lord Brabourne's "Letters of Jane Austen," adorned with annotations by members of Austen's own family.

Edith actively participated in Jane Austen societies, serving as a dedicated board member of the Jane Austen Society of North America and holding a prestigious life membership in the British society dedicated to the beloved author.

Legacy and Well-Deserved Retirement

Edith Lank gracefully concluded her longstanding House Calls newspaper column at the close of June 2019, marking the culmination of an illustrious career that spanned over four decades. Remarkably, she retired at the age of 93, having offered invaluable guidance to countless readers throughout her extraordinary journey.

A Profound Passing

On January 1, 2023, at the age of 96, Edith Lank departed, leaving a legacy of wisdom, expertise, and profound impact in the worlds of real estate, literature, and aging. Her contributions, spanning various facets of life, shall forever be remembered and cherished by those fortunate enough to have been touched by her writing and sage advice.

Dumitru Radu Popescu, Romanian novelist, Died at 87

Dumitru Radu Popescu: A Romanian Literary Icon

Dumitru Radu Popescu, a prolific Romanian writer, poet, dramatist, essayist, and short story author, made an indelible mark on the world of literature. Known for his "magical realism" infused works, he is often compared to the renowned Italian author Italo Calvino.

Early Years and Education

Born on August 19, 1935, in the picturesque village of Păușa, situated in Nojorid, Bihor County, Dumitru Radu Popescu embarked on a literary journey that would captivate readers around the world. While initially enrolled in the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj, he later shifted his academic focus to Babeș-Bolyai University, delving into the Faculty of Philology. This shift marked the beginning of his deep-seated connection with language, literature, and storytelling.

Literary Journey

Dumitru Radu Popescu's literary odyssey began as a reporter for the esteemed literary magazine Steaua [ro], a role he embraced from 1956 to 1969. His insightful contributions to the literary world quickly gained recognition, establishing him as a prominent voice within the Romanian literary landscape.

In 1969, he took on the role of editor for Tribuna [ro] magazine, where he continued to shape the literary scene until 1982. His editorial stewardship played a pivotal role in nurturing the growth and diversity of literary expression.

From 1982, Dumitru Radu Popescu held the prestigious position of editor-in-chief at Contemporanul, further solidifying his influence in the literary domain. Remarkably, since 2006, he served as the General Manager of the Romanian Academy's publishing house, contributing significantly to the dissemination of knowledge and culture.

Accolades and Recognition

Dumitru Radu Popescu's literary brilliance earned him accolades and honors from esteemed institutions. He was the recipient of the prestigious Prize of the Romanian Writers' Union on five occasions (in 1964, 1969, 1974, 1977, and 1980), highlighting the profound impact of his works within the literary community. Furthermore, he was celebrated with the Prize of the Romanian Academy in 1970.

Intersection of Politics and Literature

Intriguingly, alongside his literary pursuits, Dumitru Radu Popescu delved into the realm of politics. Starting in 1968, he served as a substitute member of the Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party. His dedication to public service culminated in his election to the Great National Assembly in 1975. From 1979 to 1989, he held the esteemed position of a full committee member.

Controversy and Critique

In 1983, Dumitru Radu Popescu's literary work became the center of a passionate dispute between the Romanian review, România Literară, and the Russian publication, Literaturnaya Gazeta. The disagreement centered around Popescu's book, which delved into the somber realities of life after the war. Russian critics found the book's portrayal too dark and were vocal in their critique.

A Bittersweet Farewell

On January 2, 2023, the literary world bid farewell to Dumitru Radu Popescu. His passing, at the age of 87, marked the end of an era in Romanian literature. However, his legacy lives on through his thought-provoking writings, inspiring readers and writers alike. Dumitru Radu Popescu's contributions to both literature and politics stand as a testament to his enduring influence and multifaceted life.

Dave Schubert, American street photographer, Died at 49

David T. Schubert: A Visionary in Graffiti and Photography

David T. Schubert, a revered American graffiti artist and professional photographer, made an indelible mark on the art and skateboarding communities with his captivating visuals. Born on September 9, 1973, Schubert's remarkable career left a lasting impact, influencing enthusiasts and creators alike.

Early Years and Infatuation with Photography

Schubert's journey into the realm of photography commenced at a tender age. At the age of six, a gift of a camera from his father sparked a lifelong fascination with capturing moments through the lens.

The early years of Schubert's life were marked by constant relocations due to his father's service in the Air Force. These experiences molded his diverse perspective and played a pivotal role in his later artistic inspirations.

Exploration of Graffiti and Skateboarding

In his teenage years, Schubert's path took an artistic turn when he discovered the vibrant world of graffiti after being captivated by the iconic film, "The Warriors." This cinematic encounter ignited a passion for street art, propelling him to delve into the lively graffiti scene in New York City. These visits led him to document the thriving NYC skateboarding scene, especially at the renowned Brooklyn Banks skate spot.

As a teenager and in his early twenties, Schubert established himself as a skilled skate videographer. He dedicated his time to capturing the electrifying moments of skateboarding primarily on the East Coast of the United States, notably in Washington, D.C. His footage became an integral part of numerous skateboarding videos during the early '90s.

Venturing into Photography

In 1995, Schubert embarked on a new chapter in San Francisco, where he earned a scholarship to study photography at the San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI). This move to California marked the beginning of a prolific phase in his career.

Schubert focused his lens on the dynamic graffiti and skateboarding communities in San Francisco, vividly portraying the essence of the city's skateboarding and graffiti scenes during the 1990s and early 2000s. His work became synonymous with the vibrant street and underground culture.

Artistic Endeavors

Beyond photography, Schubert made significant contributions to the artistic sphere. He founded and published the highly esteemed graffiti zine, "Graffiti Document." Additionally, he paid homage to his close friend Dash Snow in 2009 by creating a fanzine featuring captivating photographs of Snow.

His unique photographs were featured in prominent skateboarding magazines like Thrasher and Slap, as well as other notable publications, including Mass Appeal, Anthem, Arktip, Purple Magazine, Plaza, and ANP Quarterly.

Art Exhibitions and a Lasting Legacy

Schubert's artistic prowess was showcased both locally and nationally. In San Francisco, his art adorned various spaces like the Luggage Store, the Shooting Gallery, Electric Works, and the Geary Gallery. His work also graced renowned venues across the United States, including FUSE and Mudd Guts in NYC, Kavi Gupta in Chicago, and New Image Art in LA. Internationally, his art reached an audience through a group art show in Copenhagen, Denmark, at V1 Gallery, in collaboration with ARKITIP.

In 2022, Schubert participated in the "Power of Pablo" charity art show organized by the Pablo Ramirez Foundation. His contribution, a captivating photograph, was displayed alongside works by other acclaimed artists, including Mark Gonzales, Sean Greene, Haroshi, and more.

Honoring a Creative Force

Tragically, David T. Schubert's life was cut short, and he passed away on January 1, 2023, at the age of 49. Despite his untimely departure, his artistic legacy and contributions to graffiti, skateboarding, and photography continue to inspire and resonate with enthusiasts worldwide.

Danièle Brun, French academic and psychologist, Died at 84

Danièle Brun: A Scholar and Pioneer in Psychology

Danièle Brun, a prominent figure in academia and psychology, made a lasting impact on the intellectual landscape of France. Born on July 6, 1938, and passing away on January 3, 2023, she is remembered for her significant contributions to psychology and her association with the Espace analytique.

Early Years and Educational Path

Danièle Brun's academic journey was defined by intellectual curiosity and a relentless thirst for knowledge. Initially immersing herself in the study of English and German at the University of Paris, she soon transitioned to the realm of psychology. She pursued her psychology studies at both Paris Diderot University and the University of Vincennes, complemented by additional enrollment at Paris Descartes University.

A Scholar and Educator

Brun's career in academia and psychology was characterized by a deep commitment to learning and teaching. She commenced her teaching journey as a lecturer at the New Sorbonne University, imparting knowledge about psychological assessments such as the Rorschach test and the thematic apperception test to students. During this phase, her mentor and guiding influence was Juliette Favez-Boutonnier.

In 1989, Danièle Brun achieved a significant milestone by successfully defending her thesis titled "Psychopathologie de la guérison à propos de la guérison chez l'enfant" (Psychopathology of Healing: A Study on Healing in Children), marking a pivotal moment in her academic career.

Brun's engagement with psychoanalysis led her to become a member of the board of directors at the Paris Psychoanalytic Society. Moreover, from 1988 to 1998, she served as a psychoanalyst at the Centre Édouard Claparède in Neuilly-sur-Seine.

A Multifaceted Career

Danièle Brun's expertise extended across various domains within the field of psychology. She managed a clinical practice specializing in child psychiatry at the Hôpital Saint-Vincent de Paul and adult psychiatry at the Hôpital Paul Brousse. Her dedication also led her to work as a psychologist in adult hematology at the Hôtel-Dieu in Paris and in child oncology at the renowned Institut Gustave Roussy.

In 2001, she played a pivotal role in founding the Centre de recherches psychanalyse et médecine, and a year earlier, the Société de médecine et psychanalyse.

Legacy and Contributions

In 2011, Danièle Brun organized a seminar focusing on the status of women in medicine, underscoring her dedication to addressing significant societal issues. The lectures from this seminar were published by the Institut Émilie-du-Châtelet.

Her scholarly contributions extended beyond the classroom and into literature. She was a valued contributor to the Dictionnaire international de psychanalyse, directed by Alain de Mijolla.

Farewell to a Remarkable Mind

On January 3, 2023, the world bid farewell to Danièle Brun, who passed away at the age of 84. Her life's work, dedication to psychology, and commitment to the advancement of knowledge continue to inspire and shape the fields she held dear. Danièle Brun's legacy as a scholar and psychologist endures through her contributions and the impact she had on generations of students and colleagues.

Cliff Gustafson, American Hall of Fame baseball coach, Died at 91

Clifford L. Gustafson: A Legend in American Baseball Coaching

Clifford L. Gustafson, a highly esteemed American baseball coach, etched an indelible mark on the sport with his dedication and coaching prowess, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of baseball, particularly with the Texas Longhorns of the University of Texas at Austin.

Early Life and College Baseball

Born on February 12, 1931, in the charming town of Kenedy, Texas, Clifford Gustafson's baseball journey commenced when he enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin. Not only did he pursue his education there, but he also stood out as a player for the Texas Longhorns. Notably, Gustafson was a vital part of the 1952 team that clinched the Southwest Conference championship and secured a spot in the College World Series. With an impressive .308 batting average during his college baseball career, Gustafson showcased remarkable batting skills, laying the foundation for his future in the sport, including his venture into professional baseball.

Coaching Career

Gustafson's coaching career took off following his transition from professional baseball, impacting both high school and college baseball levels significantly.

South San Antonio High School: In 1953, Gustafson embarked on his coaching journey at South San Antonio High School in San Antonio, Texas. Over 14 seasons at South San, he showcased his coaching prowess, guiding his teams to an exceptional achievement—winning the Class 3A State Championships an astounding six times (1958, 1959, 1961, 1963, 1964, 1967). These victories underscored Gustafson's ability to nurture young talent and lead them to success.

The University of Texas: Gustafson's coaching career peaked when he assumed the position of head coach for the baseball team at The University of Texas at Austin in 1968. This pivotal decision, involving a pay cut and an unforgettable phone call with legendary University of Texas football coach and athletic director Darrell Royal (initially perceived as a prank), marked the beginning of a storied coaching tenure.

During his time at the University of Texas, Gustafson achieved unparalleled success, guiding the Texas Longhorns to an impressive twenty-two Southwest Conference Championships and a remarkable seventeen College World Series appearances. Notably, these appearances culminated in two national championships in 1975 and 1983, solidifying his status as one of the most accomplished coaches in college baseball history.

Gustafson's influence extended beyond the college game, as many of his players went on to have successful careers in Major League Baseball. Notable names on this roster include Roger Clemens, Burt Hooton, and Greg Swindell, among others. His dedication and influence in nurturing future baseball stars earned him a well-deserved place in the University of Texas Hall of Honor (1983), the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame (1992), and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame (1994). In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Gustafson was honored as an inaugural member of the College Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006. Until his passing, he continued to call the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, his home.

Legacy and Passing

On January 2, 2023, Clifford L. Gustafson passed away at the age of 91. His enduring legacy in the world of baseball coaching remains a testament to his passion for the sport and his remarkable ability to inspire and shape generations of talented athletes. His name will forever be synonymous with excellence in baseball coaching, and his impact will continue to resonate within the baseball community and beyond.

Catherine David, French-American literary critic and novelist, Died at 73

Catherine David (Catherine Gradwohl): Illuminating the Literary World

Catherine Gradwohl, renowned by her pen name Catherine David, graced the literary sphere as a distinguished Franco-American novelist, essayist, and literary critic. Born on 2 December 1949, she made an enduring mark on the literary landscape until her passing on 2 January 2023 at the age of 73.

A Journey of Knowledge and Exploration

Catherine David's educational odyssey was characterized by a quest for knowledge and a steadfast dedication to intellectual growth. Beyond her secondary education, she set forth on a voyage of learning that led her to Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania for a year. Her academic pursuits were further enriched by her graduation from the Institut d'études politiques de Paris, where she honed her understanding of political studies. Moreover, she achieved a degree in history from the esteemed Pantheon-Sorbonne University.

Family and Interpersonal Bonds

In the realm of personal relationships, Catherine David shared her life with the philosopher Jean-Paul Enthoven, and together, they welcomed a son named Raphaël. Raphaël would go on to distinguish himself as an agrégé in philosophy and an audiovisual chronicler, inheriting a passion for intellectual pursuits from his illustrious parents.

A Literary Journey of Exploration

Catherine David's career trajectory traversed various facets of the literary world. Initially venturing into publishing, she collaborated with esteemed houses such as Gallimard and Jean-Jacques Pauvert. However, her literary journey did not halt there. She transitioned into the realm of literary criticism and journalism, becoming a prominent figure at the renowned publication, Nouvel Observateur.

Within the cultural sphere of Nouvel Observateur, Catherine David's contributions were profound, spanning a wide array of subjects. Her expertise and interests encompassed literature, history, philosophy, psychoanalysis, human sciences, history of sciences, prehistory, and astrophysics.

Literary Recognitions

In 1984, Catherine David's literary brilliance received official recognition when she was honored with the prestigious Prix Contrepoint for her debut novel, L'Océan miniature. This accolade marked the inception of a literary journey that continued to captivate readers and critics alike.

A Fond Adieu

On 2 January 2023, Catherine David bid her final farewell to the world, leaving behind a legacy of literary brilliance that will forever enrich the world of letters. Her life and work continue to inspire and resonate with those who appreciate the profound impact of literature and intellectual exploration. Catherine David's contributions to the literary world will be cherished for generations to come.

Cai Emmons, American author and blogger, Died at 71

Cai Emmons: A Literary Voyage

Cai Emmons, a distinguished American author, embarked on a literary journey that left an indelible mark on readers across the globe. While the precise date of her birth remains elusive, records suggest it to be around the year 1951. Regrettably, on January 2, 2023, at the age of 71, Cai Emmons passed away, leaving behind a legacy of literary brilliance.

Throughout her lifetime, Emmons generously shared her gift for storytelling, captivating readers with her eloquent prose and narratives that prompted deep contemplation. Her literary works struck a chord with readers of various ages and backgrounds, cementing her position in the realm of literature.

Tragically, Cai Emmons' life was prematurely curtailed by ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. Her valiant battle against this relentless illness concluded on that fateful day in January 2023, leaving a void in the literary world that can never be adequately filled.

While Cai Emmons may no longer grace our world, her words and stories endure, consistently inspiring and touching the hearts of those fortunate enough to immerse themselves in her literary creations.