Former Rider Sport Information Director Earle Rommel, passed away September 3rd after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
(photo courtesy of Rider.edu website)
A 1967 Rider graduate, Earle made the University his second home for more than 35 years, serving as assistant director of public relations, sports information director and director of public relations, before retiring at the end of last summer. He served this institution with enthusiasm, pride and distinction.
Rider was more to Earle than just the place where he worked. His energy and passion for the University was evident in every story he pitched and placed in the media, every quote that he carefully articulated, every basketball game that he attended at Alumni Gym, and every colleague that he quickly made his friend.
Earle’s bravery throughout his struggle with lymphoma was no surprise, as courage was one of his hallmarks. Following his graduation from Rider, Earle spent two years in Vietnam, where he was a U.S. Army counterintelligence agent, earning two Bronze Stars and an air medal.
Throughout his career, Earle’s dedication to community service was truly admirable, as evidenced by his involvement with the Rotary Club of Hamilton Township, Lawrence Township Tricentennial Committee, Mercer Science and Engineering Fair, Heritage Days and as the United Way campus campaign chair.
Most important, Earle was a dedicated family man to his beloved wife, Benita; their son, Sean; daughter-in-law, Andrea; and two grandchildren.