Hillel Gershenson Obituary (1935 - 2016)

Hillel Halkin Gershenson, Ph. D. died August 6, 2016 after a long illness. He was professor Emeritus of Mathematics at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. His focus was algebraic topology, but the teaching of math was a passion. For many years Hillel taught future elementary school teachers as well as working to improve math education for women and minority students. He served as Director of both undergraduate and graduate studies several time over his tenure. Hillel was the son of Isaac and Jane Gershenson of New York City. He attended Bronx High School of Science, and earned his undergraduate degree at University of Wisconsin, Madison, entering at the age of 16 on the Ford Scholars program. He received his doctorate from The University of Chicago and taught at Princeton University, Cornell University and the University of Aarhus before moving to Minnesota. Hillel grew up in the Bronx, a stone's throw from Yankee Stadium, a team he supported until the Minnesota Twins won his heart. He was a keen birdwatcher and amateur historian. His first degree was in Chemistry and after switching to mathematics he channeled his chemistry into baking, among his favorites were New York style bagels and Kentucky Bourbon Cake. Hillel is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Celia Wolk Gershenson; his sister, Beatrice Rosenberg; his children, Simma (Paul Smith) Gershenson, Anne (Patrick Wintrode) Gershenson; and his granddaughters, Eleanor and Hazel Smith. His youngest daughter, Rebecca Gershenson, predeceased him. Memorial service will be held THURSDAY, 1:00pm at HODROFF-EPSTEIN MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 126 E. Franklin Ave., Mpls. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the ALS Association, Jewish Community Action or a charity of the donor's choice. SHIVA: The Kenwood, 825 Summit Ave., Mpls 7PM Thursday, Monday and Tuesday,