Ralph J. Fessenden

Ralph James Fessenden passed away Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015. He was the son of Douglas Fessenden (former University of Montana Grizzly football coach) and Juliette (Armstrong) Fessenden.

He was educated in Missoula and Brownsville, Texas. He earned a track scholarship to the University of Illinois, where he excelled in running the 440-yard distance. In 1954 he placed fourth at the USA Track and Field Championships.

He continued his chemistry studies at the University of Illinois, earning his bachelor's and master's degrees. He moved to California with his wife, Joan, and earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry at UC-Berkeley.

After teaching at San Jose State University, Ralph and his family moved to Missoula, where he taught in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Montana until retirement.

Ralph and Joan were internationally known organic chemistry authors, publishing their first book in 1971. Their books have been translated into six languages.

Ralph is survived by his daughter-in-law, Susan Geske (Bruce); his grandchildren, Alexandra and Rachel Fessenden; and his son, Douglas Fessenden.

His wife Joan and son Bruce preceded him in death.

No services are planned. Donations may be made in memory of Ralph to the University of Montana Foundation directed to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry to be used for graduate student travel.
Read Ralph Fessenden's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.