Geology professor dies of cancer at 61

An assistant professor in the department of geology and environmental science passed away from cancer early Tuesday morning at the University of Virginia medical hospital in Charlottesville.

William Frangos, 61, who was diagnosed with cancer in September, completed his Ph.D. at the University of California-Berkeley in 2000, and then came to JMU that same year.

Frangos was very instrumental in establishing the geophysics program, acquiring equipment and obtaining grants for the program, said Stan Ulanski, department head of geology and environmental science. Frangos also enhanced the geophysics quantitative approach, said David Brakkem, dean of the college of science and mathematics. Frangos taught General Education science classes extensively. He had been scheduled to teach several classes, including a GSCI 101 section, for next semester.

Ulanski said he was a good friend and very interested in people. "Everyone thought highly of him as a scientific scholar," Ulanski said. "He goes way beyond professional interactions, but also personal."
Brakkem said the department is shocked and disappointed. "Our hearts go out to his family," Brakke said. "He will be tremendously missed."

Brakke said Frangos connected with all types of people all over campus, as well as the community.
JMU spokesman Andy Perrine said Frangos’ death "happened so quickly." Perrine added that Frangos was one of those people you never forget after meeting them just once.

"He was a terrific faculty member and a great conversationalist," Perrine said. "It is a real loss for the community and everyone is very sad."

A memorial will be held tomorrow from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Madison Alumni Great Room at the Leeolou Alumni Center.