Contributions to the tribute of Carey E. Vasey

B

Bob Jester posted a condolence

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

10/29/20 During the late 60’s I took my first entomology class with then Mr. Vasey. As a graduate teaching assistant, while completing my master’s degree in 71, I shared an office with this good man. I learned a great deal about biology from my time in his class. I learned a great deal about how to lead a life of meaning outside of the classroom. Geneseo is much more than ivy covered walls, beautiful scenery, and proud traditions. The real college comes down to the interactions and lessons shared between individual instructors and their students. Like ripples on the water from an invading stone, many of the lessons that I learned from Dr. Vasey, I in turn shared with my students during 39 years of teaching. He taught me that along with a passion for teaching, first and foremost, a teacher needs a thorough understanding of their subject matter. Just as importantly they need to know that if a student isn’t challenged, they are wasting their time. It is with the challenge that real progress is made. Knowing the limit of how far a student can be driven without being overwhelmed is the real mark of a truly excellent educator. Dr. Vasey had that very gift and that made him so special. Other than my years at Geneseo, I was raised and remain living in the same small town out on the east end of Long Island. With the exception of me, all of my family members have been bay men and made their living off the local waters. The bay men have a saying: “The keeper of the light must certainly be a friend of God’s.” Most people thinks that these words describe a lighthouse keeper. I do not see it quite that way. I believe that these words describe a Teacher (capital “T” on purpose) such as Dr. Vasey. A lighthouse is built on a solid foundation, and so it was with Dr. Vasey. A Lighthouse allows us to chart our course, and navigate through dangerous waters. Teachers such as Dr. Vasey offer up to their students a light that helps to guides them on a journey that lasts a lifetime. I am deeply saddened by his passing, but grateful for the gifts that he has left with me. If it is true that “hard work and a clear conscience makes for a soft pillow and allows for peaceful sleep”, rest easy my good Teacher. . .

D

Dr. Edward P Donovan Posted Apr 29, 2024 at 2:37 AM

Dr. Vasey was very special to me and so many others. I was blessed to have him as my Geneseo advisor and professor. It was because of him and his influence that I pursued and earned my Master's Degree in Entomology from UCONN. We continued to remain in contact until his passing. We will see each other again. Thank you, for be being my teacher.

Report

G

Gene Scherline posted a condolence

Sunday, October 25, 2020

I was very sorry to learn of Mr. Vasey's passing. He was a lovely man. My wife, Cris, and I would see him and Mrs. Vasey in the Omega/Mae's restaurant frequently. Our deepest condolences go out to all his family. He will certainly be remembered fondly by Cris and myself.

C

Carol Thompson posted a condolence

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

I wish that I'd had a chance to meet my cousin, Carey Vasey. We corresponded regarding our Vasey family genealogy in 2008 and he kindly and generously shared his family memories with me. He was a modest man with a beautiful soul: that much could be known from his letters. My heart goes out to his family at this difficult time. Carol Vasey Thompson

M

Mark Farruggia posted a condolence

Sunday, October 18, 2020

My condolences to the Vasey family.

P

Patty and Butch Mothersell posted a condolence

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Bertie, Brian and April, Our hearts go out to your family during this difficult time of the loss of your beloved Carey. He was a true gentleman and loved by many. You are in our prayers. Patty and Butch Mothersell

J

Jani Lewis posted a symbolic gesture

Friday, October 9, 2020

Carey, Carey and his wife were always so warm and friendly to me and I appreciated that so much as a new faculty member in the Biology Department. Carey an Emeritus then but always seemed to enjoy coming in to the department and going to Geneseo functions. My heart goes out to the family members who I am sure will deeply miss your presence. Rest in peace. Sincerely, Jani Lewis

Y

Yvonne Mehlenbacher posted a symbolic gesture

Friday, October 9, 2020

My deepest condolences to Bertie and family. I will always treasure our lunches together and our insect collecting trips. He is truly missed already.

Gail Wright posted a condolence

Friday, October 9, 2020

Heartfelt condolences to Aunt Alberta and family. What a loving and caring man. I’m so sorry for your loss. Gail Wright. (My father Frank Wright was Aunt Alberta’s brother)

5

The family of Carey E. Vasey uploaded a photo

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Carey E. Vasey

1927 - 2020

Plant a tree in memory of Carey