In memoriam: Kenneth Neusen

Kenneth Neusen, professor emerit of mechanical engineering in UWM’s College of Engineering & Applied Science, passed away Dec. 9 at age 87.

Neusen, a Milwaukee native, had worked as a nuclear engineer for Allis-Chalmers before joining the university’s small Energetics Department (since renamed Mechanical Engineering Department) in the 1960s. During his 35 years of service to UWM, he researched waterjet cutting and alternative fuels; served as acting dean for the College of Engineering & Applied Science (1999-2000); and carried out administrative responsibilities for the UWM Graduate School.

He is remembered by colleagues in the college and across campus for his good nature and commitment to fostering a positive environment for UWM students and faculty.   

“Ken was always thoughtful and gentle and very good at everything he did,” said Ed Beimborn, professor emerit, civil & environmental engineering. “I remember him as unselfish and always interested in others. He was an excellent dean and a person willing to do whatever it took to help make UWM the place it is today. Will miss him.”

Robert Balmer, professor emerit, mechanical engineering, recalls Neusen as a caring and outstanding engineering educator.  “I’ll always remember him as a dedicated UWM administrator who was neutral to university politics while enhancing the UWM experience for both students and faculty,” Balmer said.

K. Vairavan, professor emerit, chaired the college’s Computer Science Department when Neusen was an active faculty member. “It was a privilege to work with Ken,” Vairavan said. “His leadership contributions at UWM had many dimensions and were very significant.”

Neusen’s research centered on alternative fuels and included using natural gas to power cars and trucks. In fact, while Neusen worked at UWM, some campus vehicles were converted to run on either natural gas or oil-based gas; UMW maintained one of Milwaukee’s first natural-gas stations (located on the old North Lot by Sabin Hall).

During his years at UWM, Neusen worked with, and befriended, many colleagues across campus, including Erika Sander, associate professor emerit, kinesiology, who recalls his mild-mannered, affable demeanor. “We spent many hours together either playing fair-weather golf in the UWM Golf League,” she said. “He regularly played volleyball at UWM with the Noon Hour Group of Engelmann Hall and later played with in a group of senior volleyballers.”

He will be missed by many at the university. 

Death notice in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.