In Memoriam | November 2023

Bernard D. Hammer | BSBA ’62 | 1938-2023 | Hammer, of Beaumont, Texas, passed on October 15. After working in concrete sales for a time, he spent most of his career stockbroking with Paine Webber, Morgan Stanley and other firms, a career that moved him and his family to states across the country. Throughout his life, he followed stocks and sought tips that would benefit his clients, checking the market and watching for stock news. Outside of the market, he was an avid golfer and played bridge with his wife at the Beaumont Bridge Studio.

Louis R. Hardin, Jr. | BSBA ’63 | 1940-2023 | Hardin, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed on October 1. Upon graduating from the University of Florida, he earned a Juris Doctorate degree from Samford University. His education benefitted his time in the military, where he served as a Judge Advocate General officer in the National Guard before retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Michael D. Leschak | BSBA ’81 | 1958-2023 | Leschak, of Leesburg, Florida, passed on October 9. During his time at the University of Florida, he played saxophone in the Gator Band. When he graduated, he started his career as a computer programmer analyst with the Lake County Clerk of Courts and stayed for 37 years. He continued to be involved in music, supporting middle and high school bands, and served as a treasurer in his community.