David J. Partyka ’75

David J. Partyka, Ph.D., 68, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, passed away on Monday, November 17, 2025.

David was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, on August 31, 1957, the beloved son of the late Max C. and Esther (Noga) Partyka. David attended Williston Northampton School, and Clark University before moving to Tallahassee, Florida to obtain both his Master’s Degree and his Doctoral Degree in clinical psychology at Florida State University. He was both a clinical and consulting psychologist in both private practice and for state agencies in Tallahassee. He later moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he was an outpatient forensic evaluator for the State of Georgia. He moved back to Chicopee in 2017, and was most recently a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist in private practice. He was a dedicated to his profession and continued to educate himself in his field.

David’s family was most important to him. He was an avid boater and sailor and he enjoyed skiing and ice boating. His enjoyment of these activities only increased when he shared them with his mom, dad and sister. He enjoyed his summers in West Dennis on Cape Cod, a special place for him. He was at home on the ocean and the waters of Bass River.

David was predeceased by his loving parents, and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by his loving and devoted sister, Mary D. Partyka, who was also his best friend. He leaves behind his dear aunt and uncle, Helen and Gerald Ratelle of Ludlow, and many cousins and friends.

A private celebration of his life was held on December 1, 2025, at Grise Funeral Home in Chicopee. Contributions can be made in David’s name to the Friends of Bass River at 17 Point of Rocks Road, Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts 02675. (www.friendsofbassriver.org).

Gordon E. Cadwgan Jr. ’63

Gordon Eugene Cadwgan Jr, age 81, of Wilmington, DE, formerly of West Palm Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

Gordon’s life was marked by service, scholarship, and a genuine appreciation for the world around him. He graduated from the Williston Northampton School and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He proudly served his country in Vietnam before completing his Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Massachusetts.

Gordon began his professional career at Union Carbide in West Virginia. In 1981, he joined the DuPont Company as a research chemist, where he continued to pursue his passion for scientific discovery. Beyond his career, he dedicated many years to the Alpha-1 Foundation, where he served as Chairman of the Board and worked tirelessly to support its mission.

An avid golfer, Gordon was a longtime member of Ibis Golf and Country Club. He had a deep love for animals and generously supported Big Dog Ranch in Wellington, FL, and Peggy Adams Animal Rescue in West Palm Beach, FL. Some of his happiest moments were spent at the family beach house, where he cherished summers surrounded by those he loved.

Gordon is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth Cadwgan; his daughters, Lois Slusser (Kevin), Kate Cadwgan (Dave), and Sally Bronson (Jason); his son, Larry Williams (Pam); his two cherished granddaughters, Samantha Walsh (TJ) and Mary Leverette (Jordan); and his four great-grandchildren, Timothy, Grayson, Liam, and Alana.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 7th at 1 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803.

Gordon will be fondly remembered for his kindness, intellect, and unwavering love for his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to alpha1.org/tribute-giving/