In Memorium – Tom Rockwell

Thomas Hugh Rockwell, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of the ISE Department, passed away peacefully on Christmas morning at the age of 86 surrounded by his children and his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth. He will be dearly missed. Born May 2, 1929 in Loma Linda California to John Edward Rockwell and Jane Rose Hayden, Tom lived an extraordinary life. A veteran and devoted family man of great love and faith, he touched many in his career and ministry.

As a Professor Emeritus at The Ohio State University in Human Factors Engineering, he put the ISE Department on the map as one of the premier research groups in that field. He pioneered many advances in automotive safety and design and was recognized as one of the leading researchers and educators in human factors more broadly. He was also an exceptional mentor for all of our faculty in human factors, giving them guidance and support in the development of their careers while still a faculty member and continuing to do so when he retired.