Ezra Ted Newman

We lost a brilliant mind and a gentle character on March 24, 2021. Ezra Ted Newman died in his home in Pittsburgh surrounded by family and friends. He was born to Fannie Slutzky and David Newman on October 17, 1929 in the Bronx NY. He grew up spending time at Arrowhead Lodge, the hotel his parents owned. Ted went on to study physics at New York University, and later received his PhD from Syracuse University. 

Ted’s 65-year faculty career in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Pittsburgh began in 1956. He received the Einstein Award in 2011 for his scientific contributions and “...for his intellectual passion, generosity and honesty, which have inspired and represented a model for generations….” His curiosity and academic accomplishments were overshaded only by his devotion to his family. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 63 years, Sally Newman, his son David Newman (Uma Bhatt), his daughter Dara Newman (Scott Samuels), his sister Lita Moses, and his grandchildren Tessa, Leah, Tilahun, and Ari José.

Ted was a cherished and generous mentor, colleague, friend, father, husband, and grandfather. He inspired countless students, researchers, and family alike. He was kind and gentle, but held a fiery sureness in his opinions and was not afraid to state his mind. He loved opera and was an intrepid adventurer.

Though he did not believe in souls or spirits or an afterlife, the desert canyons, expansive tundra and the night sky will always embody him. His charisma, soft chuckle, and warmth will live on. Ted will be remembered for his fierce love of life, a strong belief in truth, and a passion for science, politics, adventure and music, seamlessly interwoven with a quiet dedication, humbleness and humor. There is an enormous hole left in our world that will never again be filled but we are so grateful that he was here. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony M. Musmanno Funeral Home,  Inc. Please view the families online guestbook www.musmannofh@comcast.net 

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