Richard Edwin Poulson

Dr. Richard Edwin Poulson of Laramie, Wyoming, died Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at the home of his daughter Jean Marie (Jeannie) Poulson in Lafayette, Indiana. Richard bravely fought a battle against an acute form of leukemia and was an inspiration to his family and others in his will to stay healthy in order to contribute happiness to other people's lives. Richard was born in Detroit, Michigan on September 26, 1928 to the late Otto Henry Poulson and Corinne Augusta (Matteson) Hendricks. His father's job with the railroad meant the family moved frequently around the state of Michigan during Richard's youth. After graduating from South High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Richard enlisted in the US Navy and became a skilled electronics technician, which led to a life-long interest and hobbies in radio communications and electronics. Returning to school after his stint in the Navy, Richard earned a Masters of Science and Doctorate of Philosophy in Physical Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley and Michigan State University, respectively. Richard and Alyce Jean Thompson were married on August 28, 1954 in Grand Rapids, MI. Richard and Alyce “went West” after they were married and settled first in California, where their eldest daughter, Jeannie was born. Next they moved “halfway back home to Michigan” and made their home in Laramie, Wyoming, where their home remains today. Their three other children were born in Laramie, Wyoming: Sharon Sue (Michael Graf) of Springfield, IL, Mary Ellen (Raymon Donahue) of Ellensburg, WA, and David James (Susan Pennington) of Windsor, CO. Richard is survived by his wife, his children, and two grandchildren, Charles Robert Donahue and Henry Raymon Donahue. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Robert Otto Poulson, and his sister Grace (Poulson) Karsten. A proud Wyoming resident, Richard enjoyed hiking in the Snowy Range Mountains and spending time at his home outside of Laramie. Richard was an accomplished chemist and was a member and chair of several national professional organizations. During his active years in science Dr. Poulson authored a large body of peer-reviewed papers in physical chemistry and chromatography, and contributed to development of techniques for the analysis of chemical contaminants in water and other natural substances. In retirement, Richard enjoyed reading, supporting his favorite sports teams and spending time with his family. He traveled often to visit his children and grandchildren in locales across the United States. A lifelong learner and scientist, Richard never stopped reading, listening and analyzing information. His smile and presence will be deeply missed by his family and those who knew him. A memorial service for Richard will be held on Sunday December 9, 2012 at Stidham United Methodist Church. Arrangements for a memorial service in Laramie, Wyoming next summer are pending. Memorial contributions may be made in Richard's memory to Hillsdale College (Michigan) or to the donor's favorite charity.