Posted on behalf of Zenon Wasyliw, Professor of History.
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Professor Emeritus of History Dr. Andrew (Andrievs) Ezergailis on January 22, 2022, at the age of 91. Andy joined the Ithaca College Department of History in 1964 and upon retirement was named Professor Emeritus in 2009. Andy taught courses in European history, Russia and the USSR, and the history of political ideologies. He was an engaging and memorable professor and mentor.
Andy was an outstanding and globally recognized scholar. His book The Holocaust in Latvia, 1941-44: The Missing Center was the first comprehensive history of the titular topic and was seen by many as an instigation for a necessary if painful review of Latvia's history during the Second World War. He also wrote about the Russian Revolution, other World War II topics, and contemporary Latvian topics. He was awarded Latvia’s highest honor, the Order of the Three Stars (Triju Zvaigznu ordenis).
Andy is survived by a daughter, Anna Jojic, sisters Dzidra Reimanis and Valda Zemesarajs, niece Liga Zemesarajs, and nephew Janis Zemesarajs. He was predeceased by his wife, Dr. Inta Miske. A memorial service will be announced for a future date.
Andy’s obituary:
https://www.ithacajournal.com/obituaries/bps124093
An Ithaca College Oral History of Andy’s Ithaca College experiences and reflections:
https://digitalcommons.ithaca.edu/oral_history/interviews/ezergailis/
Latvian Government Award:
https://www.ithaca.edu/icq/2006v4/depts/south_hill/sht2006_4latvia.htm