Obituary of Albert N. Hieronymus

Albert Nathan Hieronymus (Al) touched the lives of thousands before he died peacefully at home Monday, September 3, 2007, at the age of 89. Married for 63 years to Wilfreda Hieronymus, he is survived by their five children, seventeen grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Family was always paramount in Al’s life but leaving the world a better place than he found it was important as well. Drafted into the Army in 1942, Al was decorated with the Bronze Star and the Croix de Guerre for his service as battery commander of the Third Army in WWII. He became a professor of Educational Psychology and Measurement at the University of Iowa in 1949. Al was truly a teacher of people and took a personal interest in the accomplishments of his students, many of which he could describe in great detail. He served as Director of the Iowa Testing Program and chief editor of the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills until 1987. He retired to his family and love of gardening for the next twenty years. Al and Freda helped to form Project Green and were constant contributors of plants and information. He supported countless charities and most enjoyed his sponsorship of the City High special needs students with everything from financial support to tractor rides at the “Big House”. Even in death he is continuing to contribute and further learning by donating his body to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program. Al loved music, particularly Jazz, and as an accomplished piano player, he played for social occasions and benefits with like-minded friends. He was an avid sports fan of the Hawkeyes, Cubs, and Bears. The greatest enjoyment and tribute to the person of Al Hieronymus was the closeness of his ever-growing family and the constant visits of his friends. For the last twenty years his door was always open without invitation to people for both ordinary and special occasions. They arrived because they wanted to be part of his life since he added so much to theirs. He is loved by many and will be missed by more. Friends are invited to join his family for an open house and celebration on September 22 from 3 to 6 p.m. at his home in Iowa City at 3322 Muscatine Avenue. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Project Green, or the Blommers, Hieronymus, Feldt, Scholarship Fund through the University of Iowa. Condolences can be sent to www.gayandciha.com.