Ronald Charles Gulezian, a former lecturer in the department of statistics in the Wharton School, passed away on January 14. He was 81.

Dr. Gulezian was born and raised in West Philadelphia, where he developed life-long friendships. He attended the University of Pennsylvania, earning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. From his studies, he gained an enduring interest in statistics. Throughout his career, he held several teaching positions at various universities in the Delaware valley, including Temple University, the University of Delaware, and Drexel University. In 1982, he joined the faculty of his alma mater as a lecturer in the Wharton School’s department of statistics. In 1987, he left, but returned to Penn in 2000 as a lecturer in statistics, a lecturer in the College of Liberal and Professional Studies, and a teacher of evening classes for Wharton undergraduates. He eventually left Penn in 2005. He published a book in 1991, Process Control Statistical Principles and Tools, which developed a pathway for learning how to analyze recurrent quality problems in managerial systems. 

Outside of his work in statistics, Dr. Gulezian loved art and jazz music, carving elaborate pumpkins every year at Halloween, and swimming at Long Beach Island. 

A private graveside service was held on January 19. Dr. Gulezian’s wife, Anna, passed away on March 15. He is survived by his daughter, Lee (Terry Crane); two grandchildren; his cousins, Janet Vart, Fred Samelian (Terry), Clara Samelian, and Jon Samelian (Karen); and other family members.