Hillsdale College Remembers Trustee Emeritus John E. Pearson
Dedicated Hillsdale friend passed away on Aug. 30.
HILLSDALE, Mich. — Hillsdale College is saddened by the passing of Trustee Emeritus John E. Pearson, who served on the College’s Board of Trustees from 1998 to 2008. He passed away on Aug. 30 at the age of 75.
“John Pearson was a wise and kind man and a longtime friend of Hillsdale,” said Rich Péwé, chief administrative officer of Hillsdale College. “We are grateful for his service and generosity to the College, and our prayers are with his family.”
“We are grateful for his service and generosity to the College, and our prayers are with his family.”
Pearson joined the Hillsdale College Board of Trustees in 1998 and served in that capacity until 2008, when he was granted emeritus status. During his time on the Board, he served on the search committee that brought President Larry P. Arnn to the College.
Pearson supported Hillsdale financially for decades. Personally and through his business, Pearson contributed primarily to Hillsdale’s Student Independence Scholarship and Loan Fund, which replaces taxpayer-funded government financial aid for qualifying students, both advancing the College’s educational mission and preserving its independence.
Pearson worked for Ervin Industries for 50 years, serving as its president and CEO for 39 years. He also served on the boards of the J.F. Ervin Foundation, Neo Materials Technologies Inc., and Nanosteel.
Pearson is survived by his wife, daughter, son, stepson, and three grandchildren.
For a photo of Pearson, click here. For photos of Hillsdale College, click here. For a high-resolution copy of the Hillsdale College clocktower logo, click here.
