Potsdam, New York – The SUNY Potsdam community is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Frank A. Revetta, Professor Emeritus of Earth & Environmental Sciences, who passed away on September 15, 2024, at the age of 96. Dr. Revetta dedicated over five decades of his life to teaching earth sciences, geophysics, and astronomy, becoming a cherished mentor to thousands of students.
Dr. Revetta, affectionately known as “the earthquake man” for his extensive work in seismology, was renowned for his passion for education. His contributions to the academic community at SUNY Potsdam were profound, and he continued to offer his expertise and guidance even after his official retirement. His legacy extends beyond his research, as he was celebrated for making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for all his students.
Born on June 18, 1928, in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, Frank A. Revetta was the eldest of three sons. After serving in the U.S. Army as a laboratory technician in France, he pursued his education in geology and geophysics, earning degrees from the University of Pittsburgh, University of Indiana, and the University of Rochester. Dr. Revetta joined SUNY Potsdam in 1963, where he taught for 50 years, becoming an influential figure in the field of geophysics and a beloved member of the university community.
Visitation for Dr. Revetta will be held on Friday, September 20, from 4-7 p.m. at the Garner Funeral Service in Potsdam. A mass of Christian burial will take place on Saturday, September 21, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam. He is survived by his wife, Joann, their daughters Lisa and Mia, and his grandchildren Abrahim and Ismail.
The SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association expressed their condolences on social media, stating, “We are truly saddened to share the news that Dr. Frank A. Revetta has passed away. He was a beloved faculty member for 50 years, teaching earth science, geophysics, and astronomy to thousands of individuals.”
Many former students and colleagues shared their memories and expressed their sadness over the loss of Dr. Revetta on Facebook:
- Dennis Gray: “I had to take another science course for my education major, in addition to my math major, so I decided to take a geology course from Dr. Revetta. I wasn’t really sure what I was getting myself into, especially on the first day when I discovered he wrote the textbook himself. A truly dedicated professor.”
- Chuck Schmidt: “He made the basic science requirement ‘Rocks for Jocks’ fun, interesting and approachable. The mark of a great professor is someone who can reach both majors and non-majors.”
- Samantha Phillips: “A man who truly loved what he did. I remember one class he called me out in front of everyone and later apologized to me. It was me who owed him an apology. After that, I learned that he had the dream job – he was able to share his love of the world with everyone.”
- Alan Roberts: “Sorry to hear this. May his memory live on in all of us, his students, friends, and colleagues.”
Dr. Revetta’s contributions to the academic world and his impact on his students will be remembered for generations to come. His love for teaching and his commitment to his field have left a lasting legacy at SUNY Potsdam and beyond.