Alan Walter Steiss' Obituary
Alan Walter Steiss was born on February 15, 1937, in Woodbury, New Jersey. He was the son of Walter and Martha (Schroeder) Steiss. Alan was a very motivated young man. At Woodbury High School, Alan was involved in National Honor Society, Chemistry Club, Mathematics Club, German Club, Football, and Baseball. After graduating in 1955, Alan received a scholarship to Bucknell University and on the first day of classes, he would meet the love of his life, Patricia Foster McClintock. Alan graduated with a Bachelor in Sociology and Psychology in 1959. After graduation, he and Patricia were wed and moved to New Jersey where he became Statewide Planning Director for the State of New Jersey (1960-1965). But Alan’s true passion was to become a professor. In 1965, Alan attended the University of Wisconsin to obtain a Masters Degree in Urban Planning and PhD of Philosophy in Urban Planning.
Alan began his teaching career as a faculty member at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (now Virginia Tech), from 1967-1969. He also served as program chairman for environmental and urban systems, 1969-1978, associate dean architecture, 1974-1978, associate dean research division, 1978-1983, and associate provost, 1983-1988. In 1988, Alan accepted a position as the director of research development and administration at the University Michigan, Ann Arbor (1988-1996). He also served as coordinator of research information management system, 1996-1999, professor urban planning, and professor public health, 1988-1999. In 1999, Alan and Patsy moved back to Blacksburg to be closer to their children and grandchildren. He served as adjunct professor at Virginia Tech from 2000 to 2008.
Alan was lovingly called "Papa Owl" by all his family and close friends. He recently moved to Davidson, NC to live with his son Todd and daughter-in-law Sandy. Unfortunately, Alan was diagnosed with cancer shortly after his move. Alan passed peacefully at his new home with Todd and Sandy by his side on June 6th, 2026.
Alan was preceded in death by his loving wife Patricia, his Father Walter Steiss, Mother, Martha (Schroeder) Steiss.
He is survived by his daughter Carol Jean (Wes Whaley), son Darren (Wendy), son Todd (Sandy), Grandsons Cory, Robert and Ryan, Granddaughter, Kaitlyn, and great grandchildren, Russell, Carter and Cohen.
The family would love to thank Via Hospice, and Nurse Joyce for their loving care.
James Funeral Home is assisting the family, online condolences may be made at https://www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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