Steve "Doc" Feller

Steve "Doc" Feller

Robins

The indomitable Steve “Doc” Feller passed away on Wednesday, November 19th, at the age of 74. He was taken ill at the Society of Physics Students conference in Denver and, despite incredible care from the teams at the University of Colorado Hospital, was never able to return home. He was predeceased by his parents, Morris and Bea, and his big brother Ben. He leaves behind his sister Audrey, wife Barbara, daughters Heidi (Howard) and Ray, and much-loved grandchildren Max, Leonardo, Isaac, and Momo.

Steve was born on January 12, 1951 in Brooklyn, New York. His childhood was focused on school, stickball, pizza, and adventures with the friends in his neighborhood. He spent his summers with his grandmother, Nana Pearl, in Utica, N.Y., where he met his future wife Barbara. They began their relationship as teenaged penpals, ultimately marrying on August 8, 1971, and spending the next 54 years together.

“Doc” worked as a physics professor at Coe College for 46 years, where he developed a premier undergraduate research program. He is known for his mentorship of both students and colleagues. Steve traveled across the world to collaborate with glass scientists, as well as enjoy their friendship. He loved bringing students on international trips. He enjoyed talking about teaching with daughter Heidi, a professor of mathematics.

Steve was also a renowned numismatist. Steve traveled extensively, often with daughter Ray, to study and teach about the history of money. He specialized in the money used in civilian internment camps in World War II. He was prolific as an author, presenter, and organizer, with particular pride in his collaborations with Ray.

“Grandpa Steve” was delighted by his grandchildren: taking Max to amusement parks to observe roller coasters, cuddling with Isaac on their special spot on the sofa, getting steak and talking food with Leonardo, and answering Momo’s many science questions. He appreciated that COVID led to Zoom Shabbat dinners with the family, which continued ever since.

He was also active in the Temple Judah community, where he served as president and made many delicious latkes.

It is impossible to fully encapsulate all that Steve meant to the communities he was a part of. His mentorship, authenticity, and vivacity have impacted multiple generations, and reverberations of his legacy will continue through generations ahead.

The funeral will be at 1:00 pm Friday, Nov. 21 in Sinclair Auditorium at Coe College and live streaming at https://www.youtube.com/live/H9JhzN0yypU?si=ydQqdoSebjUwnQ4b Shiva will be held Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at the Feller home.

Burial is in Eben Israel Cemetery in Cedar Rapids.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the Coe College Physics Research Fund to enable opportunities for future generations of students.