Francis E. Milliman

Milliman 1924- 2018

Frank E. Milliman was born on November 23, 1924 in Lyons, NY and lived the majority of his life in West Chester, PA.  Frank passed away on October 26, 2018 at the age of 93. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Crystal Wilbur Milliman, his sister Eileen, and brothers Herbert, Robert, William, James and Charles.  He is survived by his brother Thomas (Janet) of Lyons, NY and many life-long friends.

Milliman served for four years in the U.S. Navy and received his undergraduate degree from Holy Cross College followed by his advanced degree from Columbia University.   

Before coming to West Chester, he taught in New York at Hobart College and Manlius School.

Professor Milliman came to the Mathematics Department at West Chester University in 1960 and served there for the next 48 years, retiring with Professor Emeritus distinction in May 2008. 

In his early years at West Chester State College, he was a main force behind The Philips Lecture Series, The All-Star Series and the Assembly Series where he brought to WCU outstanding speakers, actors, dancers and orchestras.

He was one of the founding members of CAPC (The Curriculum and Academic Policies Committee), President for 3 years, Vice-President for 2 years, and Chair of its General Education Committee for 3 years.

He was a member of the Delegate Assembly of APSCUF (Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculty) since its inception.  He served as the Recording Secretary, member of Meet and Discuss for years, and a member of the APSCUF Executive Committee for years.

Professor Milliman was Chairperson of the Mathematics Department for 7.5 years, and Assistant Chairperson for over 25 years.

He was one of the founding members of the Committee to Improve the Campus Environment and in this capacity was instrumental in developing plans to convert the old macadam quad into a beautifully landscaped quad.

Frank was a member of the Faculty Senate for 19 years. -President for 3 years and Vice-President for 2 years and a member of the Executive Committee for many years.

He served as a member of the University’s Budget Committee for 26 years.

Professor Milliman’s energies were focused on four main themes: first, his teaching; second tutoring, advising and mentoring mathematics majors; third, assisting with the necessary administrative tasks in efficiently operating the second largest department at West Chester University; and fourth, caring about the health and stability of this fine university.  

Professor Milliman always served as an ambassador for West Chester University, as he constantly challenged students, faculty, staff and administration to strive for excellence.  For 48 years he worked diligently to make West Chester University a better place for students and faculty. 

Frank Milliman was a gourmet cook, landscape gardener, and he enjoyed reading, traveling and being with his friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 3, 2018 with visitation from 2-3pm followed by his funeral service at 3pm at the DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. 410 North Church Street, West Chester, PA 19380, 610-696-1181, www.DellaFH.com

Interment will be private at South Lyons Cemetery, NY.

Donations in Frank’s memory should be made to the West Chester University Foundation, 202 Carter Drive, West Chester, PA 19382, make checks payable to WCU Foundation with a notation to benefit the Frank E.  Milliman Endowment for mathematics student scholarships.