Donald Allan Kearns, a long time Andover resident and Professor at Merrimack College, died Friday, November 24, 2006, from natural causes. He was 83 years old.
He was born in Fairhaven, Massachusetts, on September 10, 1923. Mr. Kearns served in the US Army in India and Burma during WWII, providing radio communications for General Stilwell’s Chinese Army. After earning his PhD in Mathematics from Boston University, he taught as Merrimack College for several years before moving to the University of Maine. After five years, Mr. Kearns returned to Merrimack College to establish the Mathematics Department in 1958. He was also a skilled pianist and an award-winning photographer.
Despite his many accomplishments, Donald valued family and community above all else and he loved being around young people. Children were delighted with his spontaneous jingles made with their names. He was completely unpretentious and his silhouette with tennis shoes and baggy sport coat topped by a warm cap was recognized all over Merrimack. He is remembered as a loving son, husband, father and friend. All who knew him were blessed by his warmth and generous spirit.
He was an active ember of St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Andover, where he served as church photographer, CCD teacher/administrator and other functions over the years.
He is survived by his wife Ellen, to whom he was married for almost 60 years. He is also survived by his sister, Constance Cummings of Fairhaven; his six children Frank Kearns, Mary Childs, Catherine (Betsy) Kearns, Emily Kearns, Jeremiah Kearns and Dorothy Kearns; grandchildren Amy, Abby, Alex, Arad, Becca Rose, Chelsea, Emily, Jeffrey, Myriam and Natalie; and two great-granddaughters, in addition to numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws. He was predeceased by his son John and grandson, Peter.
His Funeral Mass was celebrated in St. Michael Church, North Andover, Saturday, December 2, 2006, at 10 AM. Many relatives and friends were in attendance. Calling hours were in the Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, Andover, Friday, December 1, 2006, from 2-4 & 7-9PM. Burial was in Spring Grove Cemetery, Andover.
Donations in Donald’s memory may be made to the Donald Kerans Scholarship Fund, Donor Relations Office, Merrimack College, 315 Turnpike