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Saturday, March 10, 2018

Obituary: Vicki L. Eaklor, 63, Andover


ANDOVER - Vicki L. Eaklor passed away Thursday, (March 8, 2018) at the age of 63.
Born November 24, 1954 to parents Josie and Warren Eaklor (her mother a talented singer and her father a talented musician), she grew up in Grand Junction Colo. where she attended high school. Passionate about music and American history herself, she received a BA in history and music education at Adams State College in Alamosa Colo. Later, she went on to obtain a MA in 1979 in musicology at Washington University in St. Louis and a MA in 1980 in American Intellectual Cultural History. She also received her PhD there in 1982.
In 1984, Vicki accepted a teaching position in American History at Alfred University where she remained teaching for 30 years. In addition to teaching history, she taught the course, Women in Society, and taught and created the first ever history courses at AU in Queer American and Queer Hollywood.
A published author, she wrote the books “Queer America: A GLBT History of the 20th Century”, and the “American Anti-Slavery Songs: A Collection & Analysis”. She also edited the book “Bringing Lesbian & Gay Rights into the Mainstream” by Steve Endean.
Her academic accomplishments also include dozens of published articles on music, history and gender issues. Throughout her teaching career, she received numerous honors and awards including the Abigail Allen Award at AU in 2004, and the Excellence in Teaching Award also at AU in 1998 and 2005.
On the side she often gave private percussion lessons to Alfred University students as she was a very talented drummer. Her drumming performances in concerts were nothing short of spectacular.
Vicki was one of the most caring and generous people on the planet. A favorite among students and a highly respected colleague, she will be greatly missed. It is sad to lose someone who contributed so much and did it with exceptional quality and talent. She is survived by her partner whom she was with for 29 years.
At Vicki’s request, there will be no services. Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover.  Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.