Condolences
As a former student of Professor Homerin, it saddens me to learn of his passing. He had a very kind soul who believed in the very best of people. He encouraged me to strive to be the best that I could and helped me significantly in my career. I owe him a debt of gratitude. He will be remembered. Wishing you peace at such a sorrowful time.
Dear Nora, I just learned of Emil's illness and passing, and I am in shock and so sad. My heart goes out to you and your sons as you grapple with this loss. It has been 20 years since I left UR, where I was a visiting professor in the department of religious studies. I have vivid memories of so many wonderful conversations with Emil as well as at least one gathering at your home. Emil gave me valuable encouragement and guidance as I started my career, and I remember well, his graciousness, humor, and intellect. I wish you well at this difficult time.
Yechiel S Goldberg
Dear Nora,
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Emil's death. Since I've been retired for several years I had not seen him nor of course learned of his illness. He was a friend, one of the good guys on campus, I think we were pretty much on the same wavelength, liked a lot of the same things, including baseball of course. I am terribly sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences.
George Grella
Dear Nora, I am one of Professor Homerin’s students from the Class of 2011. I truly cannot imagine my life without taking Islamic studies coursework with Professor Homerin. He added so much dimension to the way I viewed the religion I was born with. He was also the kindest, most supportive professor, nurturing my interests in law school and as a person outside of professional life, well after I graduated. I miss him very dearly. Thank you for the instructions about donations to the Boys and Girls Club of Rochester. I was happy to know how to honor him in a way that would mean the most to you and him.
My sincere condolences to Emil's family and friends. Taken to the stars too soon. I got to know Emil when we invited him to speak at the Rochester Genealogical Society. Emil gave several talks at RGS and twice led the June RGS "picnic' tour of Mount Hope Cemetery where he enthralled all with his knowledge and charm. I doubt if there was ever a question asked during his talk or tours that he could not answer with less than a full understanding of the subject. He was a great asset to not just the University of Rochester, but to the Greater Rochester community overall. He will be greatly missed.
Rev. James L. Swarts, Past-President of the Rochester Genealogical Society
I am saddened and shocked to learn of Emil's passing. I enjoyed chatting with Emil at church or on the UR campus. He was always passionate about whatever his latest project was. I remember having lunch once and learning all about his Talking Stones course. He will be greatly missed. My condolences.
Nora, Luke and Elias We are so sorry for your loss. It was always one of our great pleasures when we could get to see you. In deed to the star dust we will return.
Emil Homerin was a member of the Friends of Mount Hope Cemetery Board of Trustees. For many years he conducted an annual tour entitled "Speaking Stones" that never once lacked for a large contingent of attendees. Emil had a special ability to both entertain us and at the same time increase our knowledge of cemetery practices and traditions. He will be greatly missed. Marilyn Nolte, long-time volunteer at Mount Hope Cemetery
Oh, Nora, Luke, and Elias. I am so sad to learn of Emil's death. What a profound loss for you and, I know, for many others. Keeping you all in my thoughts and heart. With love, Jan Gartner