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.
