University Times

Karl Oermann, chairperson of the University's Department of Health and Physical Education in the School of Education from 1957 to 1974, died March 14, 2001.

Oermann, 85, had suffered head injuries after falling at his Mt. Lebanon home last week.

"He was a mentor to generations of athletes and health educators," said Kenneth Metz, former dean of the School of Education.

"I personally owe a great deal to him. I succeeded him as department chair, and he mentored me through that and my subsequent administrative appointments here. He played a major role in developing the University's health, physical education and recreation education programs."

Oermann came to Pitt in 1938 as an instructor of intramural sports and athletics.

He served as a Navy lieutenant from 1942 to 1945, returning to the University in 1946 as an assistant professor. He became department chairperson in 1957 and an emeritus professor in 1983.

He earned his master's degree and doctorate from Pitt in 1939 and 1943, respectively.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Karl C. H. Oermann Scholarship Fund c/o the Pitt School of Education dean's office, 5T01 Posvar Hall, 230 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh 15260; or to Our Savior Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 698 Country Club Drive, Pittsburgh 15228.