University Times

Long-time graphic artist in the Office of Public Affairs Leslie Dawn Guthrie died March 31, 2008, following a prolonged acute illness. She was 50.

A 1976 graduate of Montour High School and a 1979 graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Guthrie was hired at Pitt as a graphic designer in 1983. She was art director/mailing specifications manager in University Marketing Communications (UMC) at the time of her death.

Colleague and friend Peggie Miller, director of administration and financial operations at UMC, described Guthrie as a generous and giving person. “Leslie had a contagious laugh and pleasant demeanor. She will be greatly missed,” said Miller. “She also had a wonderful love of animals.”

Guthrie is survived by her fiancé, Dean Karamarkovich, and his son, Michael; her sister, Susan V. Watson, and her aunt, Norma Drake.

Guthrie’s late father, Joseph A. Watson, was a distinguished professor emeritus of radiation health at Pitt.

A memorial service for Guthrie will be held at 11 a.m. April 5 at the Ken Mawr United Presbyterian Church, 1760 Pine Hollow Rd., McKees Rocks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Animal Friends of Pittsburgh, 562 Camp Horne Rd., Pittsburgh 15237.

—Peter Hart