Lawrence W. Von Tersch, Former Dean of the College of Engineering, Has Died

April 22, 2010

Lawrence Wayne Von Tersch, former dean of the College of Engineering and founder of the MSU Computer Laboratory, died Monday, April 19. He was 87.

Von Tersch, who served as dean from 1968 to 1989, did much to advance the stature of the college. He joined the MSU faculty in 1956 as professor of electrical engineering and as founder and director of MSU’s Computer Laboratory, a position he held until 1983. He also served as chairperson of MSU's Department of Electrical Engineering from 1957 to 1965, and as associate dean for academic programs from 1965 to 1967.

In addition to being an outstanding scholar and administrator, Von Tersch was instrumental in designing and building MSU's first computer, MISTIC (Michigan State Integral Computer), which became operational in October 1957. The vacuum tube–based computer was considered state of the art and did much to put the College of Engineering and MSU on the map. MISTIC was replaced by the CDC 3600 computer in June 1963; and in 1968, Von Tersch’s first year as dean, the college received a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation for the purchase of a CDC 6500 computer. His work laid the basis for the formation of the Department of Computer Science in 1968.

“Wayne’s leadership in academic computing moved Michigan State University rapidly and effectively into a new era,” said MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. “The MSU community is forever grateful for this major contribution to the history of this university; he is the epitome of a true pioneer. We extend our sympathy to his family for their loss.”

“I had the privilege of meeting Wayne in early February of this year,” said Satish Udpa, dean of the College of Engineering. “He talked a lot about his time at MSU and even took the time to educate me about the pawpaw tree and its fruit. It was a wonderful meeting and my only regret is that I won't be able to do it again.”

Von Tersch was born in Waverly, Iowa, on March 17, 1923. He received his BS, MS and PhD degrees from Iowa State University, where he taught for 10 years prior to joining the MSU faculty. At Iowa State, he also served with the Institute of Atomic Research.

“We all owe a huge debt of gratitude to Wayne for all that he did for the college,” said Udpa. “We wouldn't be where we are today without his energy, dedication and drive to make the college a better place. He will be greatly missed.”

A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 29, 2010, from 3:30-6:00 p.m. at the MSU University Club, 3435 Forest Rd., Lansing. Memorial contributions can be made to: L.W. Von Tersch Scholarship Fund, College of Engineering Development Office, 3536 Engineering Building, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI, 48824-1226. Online condolences may be made at www.gorslineruncimaneastlansing.com