David Fenton, professor emeritus of physics, passed away June 8, 2020 — his 88th birthday — in Oakdale, Connecticut. He began his career at Connecticut College in 1958 and remained at the College as a beloved teacher until his retirement in 1996.
Born in London in 1932, David attended the University of London’s Royal College of Science before coming to the United States to earn his Ph.D. in atomic physics at the University of Connecticut. While pursuing his doctorate, he was hired as an instructor in physics at Conn until his Ph.D. was completed in 1964, when he was promoted to assistant professor.
His two children, Wendy and Christopher, are graduates of Connecticut College. One of many examples of how Professor Fenton’s legacy remains at the College is the David G. Fenton Physics/Astronomy Prize for excellence in physics, which is awarded each year to one student.
He is survived by his wife Torrey, to whom he was married for 61 years; his daughter Wendy, her husband Greg Mitchell; and his brother Geoffrey and his wife Wendy. He was predeceased by his son Christopher and his brother Sydney.