Robert “Bud” Leese ’75

Robert “Bud” Leese ’75 passed away on November 21, 2021, from esophageal cancer at his home in Springfield, New Hampshire, with his family by his side. He was a core member of the Harold Parmington Foundation, was well loved on campus, and is remembered as a thoughtful, likeable fellow who went on to be a respected physician and beloved family man. Those who knew Bud best admired his abiding pragmatism, keen intellect, and sharp wit. Born in Baltimore, Bud was reared in Westminster, Maryland, and was valedictorian and standout athlete at Westminster High School. At Dartmouth he majored in chemistry, played football, and graduated magna cum laude. Bud then studied medicine at the Medical College of Virginia through a commission with the U.S. Air Force and completed his residency in family practice at Andrews Air Force Base. He resigned his commission at the rank of major in 1987 to pursue civilian practice, settling back in New Hampshire. In 1978 he married Claudia Zent, his high school sweetheart. Upon retirement Bud and Claudia settled alongside Lake Kolelemook, New Hampshire, where they savored the peace and tranquility. The family invites those who wish to celebrate Bud to do so through a donation to the Union of Concerned Scientists, www.ucsusa.org.