In Memory of Joseph L. Vetter
It was with great sadness that Goodwin College learned of the passing of distinguished alumnus Joseph L. Vetter, 89, on October 6, 2009.
Joseph L.Vetter (’51 ’54), who earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Drexel’s Evening College, was a staunch supporter of “Evening” students, Goodwin College and Drexel University; from his own days as an “Evening” student right up to his passing. |
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He was an active member of the "Mary S. Irick Drexel Society," an alumni group comprised entirely of past recipients of the prestigious award of the same name. The group is charged with replenishing a strong base of advocacy for the historic "Evening College." These alumni are among the most generous supporters of the Goodwin College and Drexel University donating their experience, time and money.
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In 2007 the Goodwin College “Irick Society” helped establish a scholarship in Mr, Vetter’s name. The Joseph L. Vetter Endowed Prize for Evening Students of the Goodwin College of Professional Studies provides financial assistance to full-time evening students enrolled in a degree program.
In 2002, The Joseph L. Vetter Service to the University Award was created with Mr. Vetter as the first recipient. The award honored Mr. Vetter’s years of volunteer service to the Goodwin College and was awarded in subsequent years to alumni or individuals with a close affiliation to the College for volunteering both significant time and effort to benefit Goodwin College. |
During his time at Drexel, Mr. Vetter studied nights while raising a family and working during the day. After earning his degree, he eventually went to work for Ward Leonard Electric Co. He left the firm to be a self-employed lighting manufacturers' representative and consultant until his retirement at age 80.
Along with his service to Drexel, career, and family, Mr. Vetter served his nation during World War II. He was a master sergeant for the Army Air Corps who served in the Normandy, Northern France, and Rhineland campaigns from 1942 through 1945. |
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When he wasn't working, Mr. Vetter could often be found on an athletic field. A member of the Delaware County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, Mr. Vetter was a commissioner for the Pop Warner Football League, football scout for La Salle College High School, and helped coach football at Roman Catholic High School and Drexel University.
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Mr. Vetter is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy Carlin Vetter; daughters, Cece Katz, Dot Murphy, Joanne Forrest; son, Joseph “Mickey” M. Vetter; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
His impact on Goodwin College has been profound, and he will not be forgotten. |
Contributions: Drexel University, with memo note for Joseph L. Vetter Endowed Prize for Evening Students of Goodwin College of Professional Studies, in care of Ron Costello, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement, 3001 Market St., Suite 100, Philadelphia, PA 19104.
Testimonials
"Joe Vetter – a dedicated “Drexel Evening College” alum, friend and “father” to many. He was a diligent supporter of the evening part-time programs and understood the complexity of juggling work, family, school and social life for the students. He will be forever linked with recognizing the outstanding success stories of Drexel’s non-traditional alumni at the annual Goodwin College awards ceremony during the Blue and Gold Alumni Weekend.
Joe will be greatly missed but never forgotten."
Marge Fritsche ‘83
Drexel Evening College |
