On December 1, 2007, Nathan W. Perry, Jr. died of cancer. This site is meant to serve as a celebration of his life—a place where we can share our memories and condolences.
- A memorial service was held on December 16th in Tallahassee, FL. read the eulogies »
- Charitable contributions can be made in lieu of flowers. more info »
- Suzanne’s emails to friends and family document the last two month’s of Nate’s life. more »
- See photos of Nate with friends and family through the years. more »
Please share your thoughts in the guestbook below, and check back soon for more updates.
May 12th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Dear Suzanne,
I am at a loss of words after reading your entries describing Nate’s last months. I am touched by the courage you showed in all of this and your emails no doubt will help others who someday may have to go through what you went through.
About me and Nate.
I first met Nate about four years after having received my Ph.D., in the mid 1980s, when I became Dade County’s Legislative Affairs Co-Chair for FPA. Nate was the Chair for FPA. Without doubt, I first got my start and inspiration for being involved in psychology organizations by attending these legislative affairs meeting chaired by Nate. I was new to the profession, I felt that Nate took me under his wing. I learned a lot from Nate during these meetings, both about advocacy for psychology but even moreso, passion for the profession of being a psychologist. Nate was really one of the most influential psychologists for me in in my career. I miss him.
Bruce Frumkin
February 10th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Nate was an inspiration to me and my students, and his influence on our science and profession will be lasting. Although I had known Nate for over 30 years, my first “intensive” contact with Nate occured at the National Conference on Scientist-Practitioner Education and Training for the Professional Practice of Psychology in Gainesville early in 1990, a conference he chaired with Cynthial Belar. And indeed it was “intense”. Nate’s vision of what our field could become permeated that meeting and the published document that eminated from it, and it is a vision that will stand the test of time. What inspired me particularly was that Nate subsequently followed this vision through the good times and bad times in organized psychology, and I would be happy if I could maintain just some of that persistance, and maintain it with the style and warmth he showed in his dealings with others. Beverly and I bring our heartfelt condolences to Suzanne and her family and we will miss him greatly.
February 6th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Dear Suzanne,
I visited the UF clinical psychology department this week for the first time in over twenty years and was saddened to hear about Nate’s death. It seemed somehow fitting that our little corner of the basement in Shands is no longer bustling with psychology students and faculty. Those were wonderful, life-changing years and I remember Nate fondly as the captain of our ship.
Your “travelogue” of the last months of Nate’s life is remarkable–honest and moving. I hope your insight into the difficulties of the health care system will be useful in a much larger way. Nate was so fortunate to have you and his children gathered around to help him through such painful times–and to have the opportunity to share deepest feelings before he died.
I will keep you all in thoughts and prayers.
With warmest regards,
Roberta Isleib
January 31st, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Dear Suzanne and family:
I wish you strength through this difficult time. May your memories of Nate keep you all strong.
With warmest regards,
Diane
January 24th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
I read of Nate’s death in the Florida Psychologist this morning and was saddened for all of our loss. It seems like a brief time ago (’74) that Nate was a much valued psychotherapy supervisor of mine. I still think of his warmth, and his ability to be patiently and quietly supportive at times, and fired up and activated at others. He was a great role model for caring deeply about patients needs and progress, but also for considering the needs of children and vulnerable people as well. He could be traditionally patient, subtle and enigmatic;at other times, delightfully direct. As a supervisor, whichever approach he took, he always stimulated lots of deep thinking. He always argued his opinions with great passion, but seemed to listen to differing views with almost equal excitement. I will miss his warmth and humor running into him at meetings, but know that I carry much of his influence in enduring ways in my work.
January 18th, 2008 at 12:08 pm
Dear Suzanne, Erika, and Marissa.
When I was an undergraduate at UF in ‘73, I applied to UF’s clinical psych grad program knowing it would be difficult to get into. Nate was on the Admissions Committee, so I talked with him about it. He never made any promises, but he also didn’t discourage me, and I did get in. He gave me a space in his lab, taught me about evoked potentials, and guided me through the program as my major professor. I remember his merry chuckle, and spitting out that horrible tobacco!
People didn’t seem to realize what a good psychotherapist he was–I learned so much from him as my group psychotherapy supervisor. One time someone was criticizing themselves for a ‘mistake’ they had supposedly made during a session and Nate’s response was, “It’s all grist for the mill.” I have used that phrase countless times talking with colleagues and supervising students. The idea that everything presents something to grow from and learn from was so Nate.
I never really knew why he had faith in me–he never said much that was personal or complimentary, as he was also not critical. He was just always steadfastly there. I do remember marching through his usually-open office door one day spouting off about something the whole way. He started chuckling! I asked him why he was laughing and he said something like, “Your ballsiness sure reminds me of Suzanne!” I knew I had been paid a major compliment.
After I graduated in ‘78 I was pleased that you let an admiring and grateful student be a small part of your busy lives. I loved your home in Archer and was so impressed that Nate had a side of him that loved the garden and his koi pond. But then he also loved those speakers that were as big as Suzanne! I was touched by his quiet love for you three women–he seemed to watch you in an accepting, but sometimes baffled, way, and would then wander off to a comfortable chair to read some psychology journals. Thank goodness when you moved to Tallahassee, you were still on my route from Louisiana to my family in Florida. The new garden was still in progress when I last visited and Nate was clearly looking forward to matching it to the vision in his mind. And, of course, the new toy–he took me for a ride in a little car that was not much bigger then those old speakers!
I hated hearing about Nate’s death and his illness and all the suffering you went through in those last months. But it is so true that we live eternally, at the very least, through what we give to others–Nate was such a good model for being well-rounded, honest, fun, accepting, and so many other things. And whenever I become too self-critical, I remind myself that “it’s all grist for the mill”. Love to you all, Jeannie
January 17th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Dear Suzanne et al…
Very saddened to hear (belatedly) of Nate’s passing from Roger today, actually at the end of a phone conversation during which I was complaining about the myriad thankless tasks that I face every day as a psychology department chair. Nate would no doubt find it fitting that this former graduate student who spent a fair amount of time during graduate school questioning various administrative decisions should ultimately be saddled with those responsibilities himself. Of course, fortunately for me those experiences provided me with an effective and energetic role model; I can only hope that I can carry forward, in some capacity, Nate’s committment to the integration of science and practice. My deepest condolences to you and to the kids.
Les Morey
January 16th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Thank you Suzanne for sharing your emails of Nate’s trials and tribulations during his ordeal with cancer. It is the one illness that seems to continually floor our best efforts in medical science. I guess that’s why I gravitated towards preventive cardiology and vascular disease in my practice since I knew we could keep people alive and vibrant by preventing and treating vascular disease.
I was so saddened to hear he had died, and still miss the time I had with him as his “PCP.” He was so strong, and you are to. As I move into Public Health, your challenges will be near to my heart as I work toward improving our state and country’s health care system/delivery of care.
January 14th, 2008 at 11:00 am
It is very hard to think of saying something that is both of comfort for those left behind and an appreciation of him who left us.
Suffice it to say that I had the pleasure of spending time with Nate from when he served on the APA Board to the last Council meeting that he attended just some weeks ago. He was earnest in his work on the Board and in psychology and at the same time able to make light of those things that deserved it.
I hope, Suzanne, that you will be consoled by what I am sure must have been an outpouring of notes of sympathy and admiration. I’m very sorry to bear witness to Nate’s passing.
Kurt Salzinger
January 6th, 2008 at 5:44 am
OUr condolences and thoughts are with the family.
January 1st, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Nate was a wonderful person. A true visionary, he was so often so far ahead of his time. I particularly enjoyed our discussions about the importance of psychology “growing up” and being willing to accept our societal responsibilities — not to mention, to stop holding the next generation back because of our own individual (I guess) fears of success. With his unhesitating support, so many far exceeded their expectations and psychology entered the healthcare arena as a bona fide profession. I do wish, however, that he would have taken the time to look down at his gas gauge a bit more often… and not counted on rolling down the exit into the nearest gas station en route to FPA. As we begin the new year, I will miss our colleague more than words can convey. Aloha,
Pat DeLeon, former APA President
December 30th, 2007 at 3:33 pm
I had the good fortunate to work with Nate in multiple capacities in APA, including through the Education Directorate and Division 12, as well as through CCOPPP and other interprofessional organizational groups. I always respected Nate for speaking his mind. He cared passionately about our profession and dedicated much of his professional life to psychology at large. His love and devotion to Suzanne were quite evident.
As Nate and Suzanne know, I initially did not realize they were married. One time, I shared a cab from the airport to the hotel with them and when we checked in, I was surprised they were sharing a room together. So I observed them and they were so connected with one another, I thought it was obvious they were having an affair. I guess marriages are particularly good when they seem like an affair. Nate never forgot that I thought he was having an affair with his wife, and enjoyed teasing me about it. He clearly had a good sense of humor and a joy in life. He will be missed.
Nadine
December 30th, 2007 at 12:26 am
Dear Suzanne and Marissa,
I just found out about Nate’s passing. I am so sorry for your loss. I have often thought about Marissa since she left to go to college…she was a very special piano student!
My husband and I moved to New Zealand a little over a year ago. I am teaching and accompanying ballet here. I still Florida and the US a lot.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Julie
December 26th, 2007 at 10:16 am
The first words that come to my mind when I think of Nate are “a force of nature”. I first met Nate when he was elected to the APA Board of Directors and I, as APA legal counsel, was charged with giving him the legal risk segment of his new member orientation . From the very beginning it was clear that I would not be able to get away with just announcing legal rules . I would need to fully explain and justify everything! Nate was the kind of client any lawyer would love to have . He was questioning , engaged, and I nearly always gained a new perspective on a legal issue by talking with him about it . He was energizing and simply fun to work with .
But more than being a great client, Nate was great company. Whether talking about his family, politics, Florida , sports,the effects of the internet or any of the other wide range of topics I remember discussing with him, Nate was a great conversationalist . He was passionate about many things and that was contagious. Nate brought tremendous vitality to all my interactions with him and I will always remember him that way .
Nathalie Gilfoyle
December 24th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
I primarily remember Nate for his helpful assistance when I was first at UF and trying to adjust to being a psychologist in a psychiatry department. Nate gave me things to do in clinical psychology as well as some exceptional graduate students to work with me. Through Nate, I met a number of people at UF who helped shape my thinking including Hugh Davis, Suzanne Johnson, Cynthia Belar, and Walt Cunningham. Nate’s death marks the end of era associated with the clinical psychology program at Florida.
My feelings go out to you, Suzanne, during this Holiday season. My father died this summer after a very difficult two month decent into delirium.
Roger
December 22nd, 2007 at 5:16 pm
Nathan Perry, lived in the same area of town as did I, and we used to play basketball together on the outside courts at the High School, the summer programs, and even for a short duration (myself) on the Green Devils team. It was most gratifying to read ALL these accalades expressed about him and the influence and impact he had on so many; this has to be most re-assuring to his wife and family, and so inspiring to all of us. Though we’ve had no contact since leaving SPHS, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that he had spent his life in the same rewarding field of teaching, as have I (Bible Colleges in America, Japan, and yes, China), and the opportunity of investing in the lives of young people; so fulfilling.
May God grant peace, and comfort to his wife and family in this season of great adjustments.
December 22nd, 2007 at 10:08 am
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I met Dr. Perry once. However, once was enough to experience a small piece of the loving relationship and the warm home you both created. I also remember being inspired by the many stories of your travels together when we were supposed to be going over data. Or were we?
I am always here if you need anything.
Warmly,
adrienne
December 19th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
My first acquaintance with Nate came through Suzanne, who I knew as a fellow pediatric psychologist. Nate was mostly Suzanne’s husband to me until I spent two weeks traveling around China with him on a pediatric psychology study tour Suzanne and I organized. We had so much fun that two years later we did it again with another bunch of colleagues, as well as Erika, Marissa, and my daughter, Abby. I later served with Nate on the governing boards of both the Society of Clinical Psychology and the American Psychological Association.
As a psychologist, Nate defied stereotypes. He won recognition for distinguished work in both experimental and clinical psychology (no mean feat!). He built a world class psychology department in a medical school, and even more amazingly did so as a “Gator,” despite academic lineage and “Tomahawk Nation” membership at Florida State.
Nate never shied away from asking hard questions or speaking his mind. He liked to cultivate a crusty exterior and set high expectations for everyone he worked with, but underneath it all lived a warm empathic teddy bear of a man who loved to tell stories, garden, raise Koi and most of all, devote himself to his wife and family.
I will miss him very much.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:55 am
As a fellow 1950 graduate of St. Petersburg High School, I wish to express my family’s sincere condolences to Nathan’s family. His passing leaves us with an empty spot, but please do not be sad, — Nathan graced our lives with his presence and his many accomplishments. His memory will be a bright candle for us all. I congratulate him for all his accomplishments for the world. He will be long remembered.
David
December 18th, 2007 at 8:26 am
It is so sad to see my classmates pass away one by one. We all have had our separate lives after High School at SPHS, but we are still classmates.
May our Lord God bless you and your family.
Harry
December 18th, 2007 at 7:58 am
Although I hadn’t seen Nathan since High School, I remember him as having a unique combination of fun loving and serious sides. From reading so many of the memorial notes, it is obvious he made a major contribution to the lives of many people, and to his profession. Your memories should bring you solace for a long time.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:39 am
My dear Suzanne,
Each email brought tears to my eyes as I read about what Nate, you and the family have gone through. Yet, through all the pain, I see the beauty in the warmth and strength of the family that provided so much support and in the many memories that you all shared. I only wish that those memories continue to be a source of comfort to all of you. My father once told me that you can measure the richness of a person’s life by the memories that he or she creates. By any measure, your family has been quite blessed. Much love, Jeff
December 17th, 2007 at 4:22 pm
Dear Suzanne:
I am so sorry for your loss. Nate has touched so many on an individual basis as well as through his work. It was his vision of the program that encouraged so many of us to be the clinical psychologists that we are today.
My heart and thoughts are with you and your family.
With love,
Jill
December 17th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
Dear Suzanne,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Although I met Nate only once, I feel like I knew him through your colorful stories during our lab meetings. Surely, this website is a testimonial of how loved and respected he was. Suzanne, I hope that one day I am fortunate enough to enjoy such a loving relationship like the one that you two shared. You and your family will be in my thoughts.
Sincerely,
Annya
December 16th, 2007 at 11:07 am
I celebrate Nate’s colorful, anecdotal stories that can take you back in time.
I celebrate Nate’s love for his children and committment to fathering.
I celebrate his vast knowledge of psychology and his contribution to the specialized field of Health Psychology.
I celebrate his love for Suzanne and his admiration and appreciation of her success.
I celebrate his energetic love of life!
Alexandra
December 15th, 2007 at 1:08 pm
Suzanne and family,
Our deepest condolences on Nate’s passing. As many others have expressed here, he held a very special place in people’s hearts, most of all your own. We will remember Nate best for his stories — he was such a terrific, fascinating story-teller and teacher. One could tell how much fun he had reliving important memories, and so many of his wonderful stories involved you and his family. He was such a loving man. We look forward to the many stories that will be told about him in the days and years to come. He will live on through them.
Mary and Jon
December 15th, 2007 at 12:39 pm
Dear Suzanne and all of Nate’s family: I was so sad to hear about Nate’s passing, and about the difficulties you and he had to endure during such a time of crisis. What a hard set of circumstances alone, but to have the situation complicated by the unresponsiveness of the healthcare system in your time of need is unbelievable and inexcusable.
Suzanne: You and Nate provided the foundation of my professional training and development. I don’t know how I was so lucky to light under your wings, but I count myself extremely fortunate to this day. Nate was a man of his word and had great integrity. I trusted him without reservation, which cannot always be said in professional circles. All of us whose training was shaped by Nate and who he sent out far and wide take the lessons we learned from him with us, both as psychologists and as human beings.
Thank you, Nate. Peace.
Carol Lewis
December 15th, 2007 at 11:36 am
Dear Suzanne,
I wrote to you previously with my sorrow at the passing of Nate, but I just read your emails during his illness and wanted to add a bit more. Nate’s passing is a big loss to all of us certainly, but mostly to you. And I very much admire the courage you showed through this very difficult time. You stated a number of things that I have thought about our health system. I had a small sample of frustration due to my recent treatment for breast cancer. I found the same “indifference” to one’s knowledge of possible treatments when the oncologist would not discuss alternative treatments. It was only with a great deal of persistence that I was able to obtain a second opinion oncologist and receive a change in follow-up treatment. My story is minor, but it does give me some understanding of the great frustration you must have felt (and probably still do) over treatment. I trust you will continue to use that courage and strength as you continue with your life and work. I hope to see you at an APA meeting before too long. Affectionately, MaryLou
December 15th, 2007 at 10:27 am
Nathan was an outstanding psychologist, chairman, colleague, and individual. He felt deeply, often passionately, about what he undertook. To know him professionally is to know he put a stamp on clinical psychology as science as well as practice. We were friends for forty-five years. His passing is a loss to us all. Our memory of him will go on.
December 14th, 2007 at 7:41 pm
Dear Suzanne and all of Nate’s Family,
I have been a friend of Nate’s since I arrived at UF as a new faculty member over 30 years ago. I so remember his friendly face, kind manner, and aways an honest but fair view of things. He was critical in getting me oriented to my new department. I was sorry to later see him move over to the Med school, but not at all surprised he was selected to head that new unit. He had exactly the qualities that were needed to mold it into the strong unit it is today. And though we saw less of one another, he remained a friend and colleague that I would so look forward to meeting on occasions around campus.
Our last meeting that I can remember was a few years ago after he had retired, but when I was first considered that option. It was an accidental meeting at a shopping center, but I realized immediately that he was the one to seek out to ask about how he had found retirement. As always, his wise counsel was just what I needed. I was sorry to not see him again.
I know my own loss with his passing is not even a glimmer compared to that of all of you. Yet if it is of any consolation to know that I am among the many, many who will feel his loss and continue to think of him frequently and fondly, then I am happy to pass this on to you.
I so wish I could join you at the Memorial Service, but unfortunately I am not able. But you all will be in my thoughts and prayers that day, as will my friend Nate. Bless you all.
Keith
December 14th, 2007 at 4:06 pm
Dear Suzanne:
I was prepared for this but still finding myself in disbelief, and can only imagine how you must be feeling. I have watched how you and Nate handled illness and passing on with such love, strength and dignity. You have actually helped all of us who know you; we have all grown with you through this experience in important ways. I recall how you and I once talked about reading the Joan Didion book, The Year of Magical Thinking, and take comfort on your behalf in knowing that at least you were planning for this eventuality, but knowing that the reality you now face is still the same as you move ahead. I was so graced by the fact that you kept me informed during these past two months and that you acknowledged your future and how there will be more time ahead for us to work together, to continue our professional relationship and friendship.
You and Nate had such a special bond, a beautiful family, and memories that will endure forever. The holiday season is a difficult time to lose a loved one, but I know you will stay focused on all your other life blessings. The pictures on the web site are very nice. Thank you for sharing so much with all of us right now. I only got to meet Nate one time, when we had dinner in D.C., and I am so thankful that I had the occasion to meet your soul mate, friend, and partner.
I am sending you a special hug and thinking about the wonderful love and life that you and Nate had together for 29 years. Stay strong and healthy as you move forward these next few weeks. I am here for you and look forward to finally speaking to you at some point soon.
December 14th, 2007 at 3:45 pm
Nate had more fun and fought more battles in the name of professional psychology than most of us can even begin to imagine. He was commander-in-chief at both APA and FPA, leading us into a new era of clinical health psychology and enhanced independent practice. He did all of this with his wit, charm, tenacity, humor, reason, and a beguiling sense of purpose. He won over legislators, psychiatric foes, and those who opposed what Psychology and his department became.
He was founder of FPA’s first Political Action Committee (“The Committee of 100”), championed the Scientist-Practitioner Caucus at APA, impacted APA as a member of Council, the Board, and numerous Committees and Task Forces. His contributions to our profession go on and on and were often hidden away in the nuances of quietly suggesting solutions in ways that made colleagues think the solutions were their own…a rare quality that never failed to amaze me. Nate was President of FPA and won numerous awards as an FPA Distinguished Psychologist, and for his Lifetime Achievements as a Florida Psychologist.
As a friend, Nate will be truly missed. I will never be able to eat many many rounds of oysters with shots of vodka without thinking of Nate or bowls of hot chili. I know how much he loved Suzanne and loved to brag about her accomplishments (“We were just at a conference where I was (grin….grin…) introduced as Dr. Johnson’s husband, Mr. Perry) and the accomplishments of his and Suzanne’s lovely adult children, Erika & Marissa.
Nate, there was much to love about you and there will be so much to miss.
Larry Ritt
December 14th, 2007 at 1:03 pm
Dear Suzanne,
What a wonderful tribute to Nate who was so obviously loved, respected, and revered by those who knew him and even some who didn’t. I hope you and your family are able during this difficult time to find peace and comfort knowing that he touched so many lives in so many ways. He so clearly has done what we all can only hope to accomplish in our lives; his presence in this world has made it a better place.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family now and in the days to come.
Carol
December 14th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
Dear Suzanne and family:
We were so sad to hear about Nate!! We know this is a significant loss and our hearts go out to you. Nate was a wonderful person and a great advocate for psychology. Although we didn’t know him well, it’s clear that Nate always spoke in a caring and passionate way about his family, the ‘Noles, and important issues in psychology. You are very much in our thoughts and hearts.
Fondest regards,
Annette and Mat
December 14th, 2007 at 11:56 am
Herb and I have been friends with Nate and Suzanne for a shockingly long time – and without the obvious benchmarks of Erika and Marissa growing from fantastic kids to such admirable adults –it’d be hard to even think back across the 20-something years…
We first spent time together when Nate convinced Herb to show some involvement in FPA, and Nate’s considerable persistence and persuasion were successful. Over the years, while I’m sure we had discussions about important topics and issues in psychology, the strongest memories are of the intensity and variety of Nate’s passions (whether for family, psychology, education, audio systems, travel, vehicles, etc), and his ability to share his enthusiasms in ways so engaging and connected to others. Nate’s passions were part of him, but not about him. We have so many wonderful memories of time spent together, drinking, eating, laughing, sharing agreements and disagreements with equal comfort. What a joy we got to be friends with Nate.
December 13th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Dear Suzanne,
The best thing about our trip to Southeast Asia was getting to know you and Nate. We clicked so well we had to continue the friendship afterward. Nate was such a warm and outgoing person that it was easy to connect with him. He was always interesting and insightful in his comments, combining idealism and realism. Of course it helped that we agreed on a lot of things. We feel lucky to have known him and will always remember the fun we had both on the Vineyard and in Florida. We are grateful that you were able to visit us this past summer before he became ill leaving all of us with some wonderful memories.
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time. Please know that we are with you in spirit.
With love,
Judy and Arthur
December 13th, 2007 at 10:55 am
I am in no way the most qualified person to comment on his many accomplishments in the field of psychology. A book could be written on that by his many respected colleagues and fellow professors. But as a student under his guidance, I have a few personal recollections about the man that I would like to share.
As a graduate student in the department of clinical and health psychology at UF from 1992 to 1998, Dr. Perry was always the chair of the department during my tenure. I was fortunate that he supervised me on a number of clinical cases, oversaw my writing of reports, and advised on occasion. He served on my research committees and advised me about theses. Anyone who has studied clinical psychology knows that supervision, whether on research or clinical work, is really the essence of training, and more important than coursework or book knowledge.
Dr. Perry was a mentor to be proud of, offering supportive and smart advice. What I most remember about him was his quiet and dignified fairness. I never recall him using his power or authority to intimidate, to play games, or to boost his image. He was the kind of man who calmly listened well, then advised you on how to become better so that you could better serve your clients. He was certainly no push-over. He was a very strong leader, perhaps quite intimidating to some, but he always thought independently and he was extremely honest.
The last time we spoke with at a UF reception during an APA national convention in the late 90s. I had just completed my graduate training and was preparing to leap out into the real world after jumping so many hoops in his top program. Knowing that my specialty within clinical psychology was sport psychology and performance enhancement, he encouraged me to continue blazing trails and following that dream of helping people achieve high performance with our great profession.
He told a story that day about one of his previous brilliant students who had developed a theory on momentum in sports. He congratulated me for making it through his program, hanging in there in some tough times, and taking the rare path in a specialty that was quite new. He also encouraged me to continue to think and practice as a “scientist/practitioner,” the model of training that integrates the best from research and scientific discovery with solid clinical work.
He was very proud of his department and the University of Florida, and long after his students left, he sincerely wanted them to represent the school and ideals well. In large part due to Nate’s tireless efforts I am sure, UF clinical is recognized as one of the premier departments in the nation.
I also think Nate was a lover of the arts. I’m not sure if this was on his own accord, or by accompanying his wife, but I saw him many times during my wife’s ballet performances with Dance Alive!, the state touring ballet company. He always had near front row seats!
While there were many professors I admired during my time in Gainesville, Dr. Nate Perry was one of the best. He was a real human being and a real strong leader. He had integrity and vision.
Goodbye to a good professor, a great leader, and an honest man!
John F. Murray, PhD, University of Florida, Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, 1998
December 13th, 2007 at 10:15 am
I think about Nate everyday. I think about Suzanne everyday. We had some good times. I remember that Nate loved a party, if anyone had an idea about a party, he was all for it. Oh, those Christmas parties. I remember when he was responsible for bringing the wine, he picked up several gallons, left them in his trunk and then when he went to get them, he discovered one of them had broken in the back of his little old Fiat (I think it was a Fiat). That was before we had parking garages and everytime that sun hit that old car, and it sat out in the sun all day long, it smelled like a brewery. He had to drive that “little old brewery” for a long time. Another time, he was suppose to make sure Hugh came to our weekly departmental meeting because we had planned a surprise birthday party for him. Nate forgot and told Hugh, who wanted to run some errands, that he didn’t need to come to the meeting. Hugh didn’t have a very good day that day, he missed his own surprise birthday party and someone ran into the back of his car while he was running those errands. There are lots of memories, lots of stories - I think of the good times, it makes me smile. Sharon
December 13th, 2007 at 8:33 am
Dear Suzanne & family:
We met you and Nate through Cynthia and Jean-Louis. Although we didn’t know Nate well, the times we were with you both were always memorable. We always enjoyed hearing Nate’s remarks about his beloved his ‘Noles and the trips you all took together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jeanne & Warren
December 12th, 2007 at 9:19 pm
Dear Suzanne, Erika, Marissa, and family
We are so sad about Nate, and very sorry for your loss.
We have always enjoy our times together, and have fond memories of Nate.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We wish you all confort and Peace.
Huguette and René
December 12th, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Dear Suzanne, Erika, Marissa, and family,
Please know that we are thinking of you in this difficult time. Although we did not know Nate well, we thought the world of him and will keep nothing but the fondest of memories. We wish you all the best, and be assured you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Most sincerely,
Chantal, Chip, Evan and Remy
December 12th, 2007 at 5:18 pm
Dear Dr. Johnson and family,
I’m so sorry to hear the news of Nate, and to learn of the struggles you have had to endure over the past few months. I only met Nate personally on one occasion; however, I was always touched by the way you spoke of him. You and Nate are such highly inspirational individuals in so many ways…even more so as a pair. The love and happiness the two of you shared was always pouring out of the stories you would recount for us at our weekly lab meetings. I would always think to myself later that I hoped I would be blessed with the kind of closeness the two of you shared. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
Stacy
December 12th, 2007 at 2:09 pm
Dear Erika and family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts and especially in my prayers.
shia
December 11th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
Dear Suzanne,
We have met working on some mutual interests/projects. I feel as if I know about Nate from this website….A tribute and celebration of a very loved man.
I extend my prayers to you and your family during this very difficult time. Perhaps we might sit and talk in the future, when you are ready……
Again, my thoughts are with you,
Christy
December 11th, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Suzanne, Erica and Marissa, Billy and I send our sympathy. What wonderful memories we have of your family here in Archer, Fl. It was always a pleasure to be with you. We will always remember your efforts in improving the city of Archer. Nate’s imput was always right on the mark. We suffered a great loss when your family moved from Archer. What a lovely family! We know that you all will be ok. We know that you all will be happy in the great times remembered together as a loving family. Nate will truly be missed by many. Depend on Jesus Christ for your innerpeace. In loving sympathy, thinking of you in your time of sorrow.
December 11th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
To Suzanne and Family,
Nate was a great guy and an outstanding psychologist. I will greatly miss him as he was an advisor and confidant about lots of issues related to APA or to medical psychology. I will truly miss his sage-like advice and his perspective. I didn’t always agree with him but I valued his input. He is a loss to you, to your family, to psychology and to me. I will miss him - take care.
Barry
December 11th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Nate Perry was a major force for the advancement of psychology at the University of Florida and throughout the nation. His leadership blazed a trail that enabled others to make important clinical and research contributions in health psychology. The success of our Department of Clinical and Health Psychology stands as a lasting legacy of Nate Perry’s pioneering efforts.
December 11th, 2007 at 12:28 pm
Nathan Perry, Ph.D. Remembrances
Norine G. Johnson
I’ve known Nate most of my professional life. I see his smile, his bounce, his enthusiasm, his intelligence, his foresight in every stage of my career: as beginning department head, as a first year Committee of Accreditation member, on APA Council and than on the APA Board of Directors. His passion and intellect resulted in major forward movement for psychology. I see his influence strongly in clinical psychology, accreditation standards, child and adolescent psychology, and health psychology.
His powerful voice defined standards for the field and influenced the accreditation process during a time of critical change. He knew where the growth areas lay and what obstacles were getting in our way. And he wasn’t hesitant to say so. He had little tolerance for fools and bullies. I admired that about Nate. No, that’s too mild. I loved that about Nate.
The last time we worked together was on the American Psychological Association’s Board of Directors during my three-year presidential cycle years. His contributions shaped my 2001 Presidential Initiative, Psychology Builds a Healthy World. He did it in a way typically Nate. On a BoD retreat, I asked the Board to brain storm what they saw as the most important trends for psychology. At the end of the day, I had my Presidential Initiative, Psychology Builds a Healthy World. I pulled Mike Honaker aside to thank him. Mike said, “Don’t thank me, the idea came from Nate and then he just sat back and let everyone run with it.”
So thank you, Nate. Thank you for everything. Thank you for being such an important contributor to making psychology what it is today and leading us firmly into an expanded future. And personally, I thank you for believing in a new psychology department head who was a girl, and for the fun in the journey. Thank you for your brilliance. Thank you for your numerous contributions to the field. And thank you for just being you. I’ll miss you. Norine
December 11th, 2007 at 9:19 am
Dear Suzanne,
we were all enriched by knowing Nate. Sorry I will miss the memorail. I’m away for a meeting.
Stay strong
Linda
December 11th, 2007 at 8:30 am
Nate was one of a kind. Strong, honest, unconventional, and a force of nature.
He touched my life deeply when he encouraged me to run for President
of APA and then was elected to the board. His unflinching vision for what
Psychology could –at its very best–become is a beacon for our future.
We are all more for his time with us and we are all less now without him.
Marty Seligman
December 11th, 2007 at 8:19 am
Dear Suzanne,
Plase accept my heartfelt sympathy on your loss. Unfortunately, I never had the pleasure of meeting Nate but know from conversations with others that he was a remarkable person and that his positive influence on family, friends and colleagues will be sorely missed.
Sincerely,
Paula
December 11th, 2007 at 7:27 am
Suzanne and Family,
My best wishes to you at this difficult time. I am thankful to Nate for his leadership and many contribution to psychology. One personal note that you may not know of: many years ago and before your marriage Nate and I had old english sheepdogs which we bred together. We had planned a trip to Europe on the proceeds from the puppies. Unfortunately all but three of the puppies were born dead and the one female died after we docked her tail. Of the two remaining males one had a large umbilical hernia. With vet fees and other expenses we lost money, but had Shaggy spaded and went to Europe anyway.
Take care!
Bob
December 10th, 2007 at 11:26 pm
Dear Erika and family,
This is such a great site celebrating your father’s life. I did not know your father very well, but this site portrays just what I expected… a happy, loving, and admired man that has touch the lives of so many people. I’m sure he is so proud and hope he is in a good place now where pain is replaced with the memory of all of your love. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Meghan
December 10th, 2007 at 9:04 pm
Suzanne:
So many of us thought of you all through BOD orientation and meetings. You could not have felt any more present.
Please know that you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Armand
December 10th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Suzanne. Nate was indeed a special person and a wonderful complement to you. He always made us feel comfortable and welcome. He was a gracious host and a wonderful conversationalist. And he was kind and self-deprecating, even being the only male to show up for a COM faculty spouse event. We will all miss him.
December 10th, 2007 at 3:40 pm
Having been one of the last Ph.D. candidates from the Arts & Sciences Psychology Department ‘and’ the Health Related Professions department at the U of F, I had to get ‘both’ chairmen’s signatures to get my Ph.D. Nate didn’t know me or any of my classmates too well. Nate took one look at me before signing my forms, and asked ” Will you be a professional worthy of this departments efforts? I remember swallowing hard, and answering “Yes Sir” I’d like to think that that answer, in part, led me to be a pretty decent clinician. I don’t even remember the other chairman…….
Tom Van Den Abell, Ph.D.,ABPP/Cn
December 10th, 2007 at 2:48 pm
Dear Suzanne - Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Nate I can see from the comments and information posted on this website that he was a great man who will be missed greatly by many people. So glad that you have such a great group of family and friends around to support you. You and your family will be in my thoughts.
December 10th, 2007 at 2:35 pm
All at the TEDDY study DCC send their deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to Suzanne and her family. May your cherished memories of Nate provide you with solace during this very difficult time. We are holding you and your family in our thoughts.
December 10th, 2007 at 1:53 pm
Dear Suzanne,
It is never easy to lose someone you love, but I am hopeful that the memory of the many wonderful years you and Nate had together will bring pleasure and solace in the years to come.
December 10th, 2007 at 12:21 pm
Dear Suzanne,
We, along with the members of Nature’s Coast Koi & Watergarden Club, send our heartfelt condolences to you and Nate’s children. Nate was such a nice man and, like the rest of us, loved his koi and his pond. Those of us who traveled up to spend the day with you and Nate remember fondly what a wonderful time we had enjoying your company and your lovely home.
We are so sorry that Nate had to endure the suffering in his final months but we know he is now finally at rest. May God bless you and your family.
December 10th, 2007 at 11:36 am
My thoughts go out to all of the Perry’s and close friends of Nathan. I will never forget the Bilmar reunions; some of the best times of my life were spent with my parent’s friends, I love them like my own family.
December 10th, 2007 at 11:35 am
My thoughts go out to all of the Perry’s and close friends of Nathan. I will never forget the Bilmar reunions; some of the best times of my life were spent with my parent’s friends, I love them like my own family.
December 10th, 2007 at 10:48 am
Suzanne,
I wish to offer my condolences on the death of your husband of many years. My prayers are for you so you will find solace in all the joyful and learning esperiences you shared with your husband. All those memories will accompany you for the rest of your life. Let´s celebrate Nate´s life for all his contributions to psychology, to society and to his family.
Sincerely,
Irma Roca de Torres
December 10th, 2007 at 10:29 am
I always considered Nate to be a Godfather, someone who seemed to know so much about so many important things and yet someone who effortlessly sifted the wheat from the chaff. I don’t think I ever heard him give anyone bad advice, and I learned more from him than I can possibly recount. When I moved to the University of Pittsburgh he provided me with wisdom and advice that turned out to be so “on target” that I sometimes felt a little guilty taking credit for having the good sense to do what he had suggested. This was a man of impeccable taste, remarkable wit, and a giant-size helping of humanity. I will miss him so very much, as will we all.
December 10th, 2007 at 10:07 am
Suzanne,
My conversations with Nate were far too few and separated by years, and the topics were certainly varied. As an intern, in a few minutes I learned well certain aspects of home renovation in Archer, and years later at an APA meeting, he gave me valuable suggestions on how to deal with hospital administrators. Professionally the critical concept that has stuck with me is his insistence that Psychologists are critical providers in all aspects of health care. I routinely use his words and ideas on that topic, and they continue to have a powerful impact.
No matter what the conversation was about, however, it always turned at some point to talking about his family. Your accomplishments and those of your daughters were always discussed. Regardless of what we the topic was, you were never far from his thoughts.
As others have already mentioned, he was the perfect host, I always felt greeted and welcomed even in the midst of a busy APA meeting. Certainly he will be missed, but more importantly remembered for his humor, graciousness, caring and intellect.
December 10th, 2007 at 10:02 am
Dear Suzanne,
Nate was a wonderful man and a pioneer for psychology. It was a pleasure to serve with him on the APA Board of Directors and on the Council of Representatives. Please accept my condolences and may you find solace in the days ahead and comfort from all who love you.
In sympathy,
Carol
December 10th, 2007 at 9:44 am
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
December 9th, 2007 at 10:14 pm
Suzanne,
I thank you for marrying such a wonderful man and then sharing him with your friends and colleagues. I had the pleasure of spending one evening in the company of Nate, when you invited the faculty & staff over to welcome a new candidate. Nate was the perfect host. Most enjoyable was his critque of the latest movies. He really should have been the third critic with Sisko & Eibert because he was as good a critic of the movies, as any paid critic. In fact, I rented Supersize, a movie I would have never watched, based on his critique. He was right, it was an excellent movie. I would not know what love “looks like”, if I had not met you and Nate. Thank you again, for the introductions. Nate is out of town, at the moment, on new business.
December 9th, 2007 at 9:23 pm
Suzanne,
I’m so very sorry for your loss.
–Katie
December 9th, 2007 at 8:22 pm
Suzanne,
As is typical of our relationship, a snap shot encounter here, a snap shot encounter there, the website gave me a snapshot of your struggle with life’s closure. Also, as is typical of our encounters, which I have found always insightful, generous and motivating, I had the same reaction from reading your personal notes on the website. I only met Nate twice, and both times I was struck with how he stayed in the background as you were front and center with diabetes issues. I was impressed with how his significant sphere did not impinge on yours.
Your e-mails on the website were similarly insightful, generous and motivating, even though at the time you were frustrated, frightened and sad. When I got up from the computer, with tears in my eyes, I went up stairs to our bedroom where Debbie was reading the Sunday paper, and gave her a long lingering hug of appreciation. Death is our ultimate accomplishment here on earth, but sharing is the process, of life. Sharing of your experiences has allowed Debbie and I to share with a little more appreciation. Thank you, Suzanne, for this and for bringing happiness out of sadness.
May the many warm memories of past holiday seasons bathe you in warm, sweet memories this season. Keep in mind the painful loneliness you feel is only a mirror reflection of the gift you were given. Be strong and be open.
Your snapshot friend,
Dan
December 9th, 2007 at 8:19 pm
Dear Suzanne,
Words cannot express how sorry I am about Nate. I will always remember Nate for his kind mentorship on administration and how to deal with those difficult situations. He had such knowledge about universities and how to negotiate the bureacratic nighmares of universities. Most of all, however, I will always remember Nate for really beaming in your accomplishments. He so enjoyed your companionship. I remember one of my last conversations with him when he was telling me that you and he would sit out by the lake or porch near your home. Suzanne, always take comfort in the fact that Nate cherished you more than life itself. I know you will miss him. I do hope that time will help with this void. My thoughts are with you and your family.
With warm regards,
Ron
December 9th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
I met Nate in 1997. He was always so kind to me and so encouraging. I always admired the way he pushed our profession forward.
thank you Nate for all you have done for us. I will miss him. I always looked forward to seeing him at a variety of meetings. Suzanne, I will hold you and your family in my prayers.
a friend always,
Larry C. James
December 9th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
I met Nate Perry back in 1977 when he and my sister were dating. I remember he was still smoking back then and Suzanne got him to give it up, which he did, for chewing tobacco. Many a time when we visited them in their historic “fixer upper” in Archer, you’d have to be sure you remembered which soda can was yours because Nate used old soda cans for his spittoon. Fortunately, I never made the mistake of picking up Nate’s spittoon thinking it was my drink, but others did, which was always a memorable experience.
For about 20 years Nate and I had a relationship that I would describe as challenging. Our very different views on academia, politics, business, investment, favorite college sports teams, cars, favorite reading material, religion, and intelligence measurements, to name just a few, provided lively discussions which too often led to far too much emotion and strain on our family relationships. About 10 years ago I realized that while both Nate and I enjoyed defending our different points of view, neither of us enjoyed the impact it left upon each of us and our families. Nate was a wonderful companion and husband for my sister and a very supportive father. Thinking back over the 30 years I knew Nate ,I realize he taught me a valuable lesson about respect, you often only get respect by unconditionally giving it to someone else.
I’m so thankful that Nate Perry came into my sister’s life and the wonderful impact their very special relationship had on everyone who knew them. He will be long remembered by all whose lives he touched.
December 9th, 2007 at 3:02 pm
Nate was my first supervisor. I was among the first group of clinical students that began in the late 1960’s. The program was just beginning and I was sent to the VA Hospital to make an appearance for Psychology. No other psychologists were there and I was a new graduate student. Needless, to say I went back to Nate’s office several times a day for advice, guidance, and courage. He always laughed when he saw me coming through the door, but he supported me and the Psychology
Department thrived until a Chief arrived. He was my supervisor, mentor, colleague, and friend. Over the years, I never met up with him that he did not greet me warmly. What a great guy. He will be sorely missed. Suzanne, my thoughts are with you. Stay in touch, warm regards and love, Stasie
December 9th, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Dear Suzanne, Erika, Marissa, family, and friends,
It is difficult for me to write my thoughts and feelings about Nate. I loved him dearly. When I was struggling with significant work-related concerns, he called me and inquired whether he could be of some assistance. He reached out to me at a time when I was feeling very discouraged and overwhelmed, and his kind offer of support and guidance moved me deeply. Nate met with me multiple times at various locations in the community over a two-year period. He spent hours on the phone listening to my concerns, problem-solving with me on the fly, and reading documents that I had written. He never said once that he was too busy or expressed the slightest frustration with my requests for assistance. He was truly there for me when and where I needed him.
I learned a great deal from Nate. Lessons that have helped me as I moved to new work situations and other life challenges. Most of all, Nate helped me to trust, honor, and draw on my own internal resources. I have not received a better gift than this from any other man.
December 9th, 2007 at 2:45 pm
Suzanne-
I am so very sorry to hear of Nate’s passing. I will remember Nate as a person of such intelligence and humor who made me smile. I looked so forward to the visits of both of you while living in Washington DC. And I will always be grateful for that time. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Debra Haire-Joshu
December 9th, 2007 at 11:55 am
We have wonderful memories of many pleasant dinners and parties with Nate and Suzanne when we were all living in Washington, D.C. Nate was the perfect dinner companion, a born raconteur who also knew how to listen, a lover of good food and drink, and a consistently warm and funny presence. We will be among countless friends who miss this wonderful man.
Keith and Kristy Nielsen Humphreys
December 9th, 2007 at 11:13 am
I am sorry Dr. Perry is gone. I met him in 1968. He taught us first year graduate students a section on visual perception as part of the required proseminar series. This was in Bldg. E (converted army barracks) behind Tigert Hall. Dr. Perry had a small lab in a basement office at the old Shands. I had no further contact, leaving the state and finally completing my doctorate. I was surprised to learn in the late seventies that he had succeeded Dr. Lou Cohen, a mentor to many of us, as Chair. When I returned to Gainesville in 1985, I quickly began to realize why he had been selected as Chair. He was instrumental in the establishment of our Psychology Department at the North Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center and continually supportive of our growth. In the last years before his retirement he was similarly reassuring and helpful to us as we confronted major differences with our psychiatry colleagues. I, among many, am indebted to him.
December 9th, 2007 at 9:45 am
It’s so sad and hard to imagine that I won’t see Nate again. He was a fixture at APA activities, at council, board and committee and division meetings, and he was one of the parents of clinical health psychology, so our lives were intertwined in many ways for many years. More important, I was always glad to see Nate, knowing that spending time with him was a challenge and a pleasure. Corny as it sounds, Nate always put me in mind of Rhett Butler, not for being a rake or a womanizer, but for his mixture of savvy and sensitivity. I’ve known a few men who love their wives like he did, but never met a man who was prouder of his wife’s accomplishments. Nate and Suzanne were synergistic, the two of them together being more than their individual parts, and he adored her and the girls. I regrettably never met his other kids, but did know Erika and Marissa, and Nate and I habitually caught one another up on what our daughters were doing, the way proud fathers will do. They were clearly the lights of his life. But like Rhett Butler, Nate had a style, part gun runner, part softy, a man who could cut a deal or cut someone a break, and with an effortless wisdom about how things work, and why people do what they do. Nate was wise because he was, not because he thought it made him look good. Faced with the pride and self interest so common in our professional politics, he wouldn’t bluster and preach, but rather smile knowingly in a way that said “what the hell are you going do do?”, allowing things to roll off his back. He could be kind and very responsive to those who didn’t see things his way. But if you touched a nerve, something he felt strongly about, the proverbial lion would roar, and he became single minded. He was brilliant in debate, and you didn’t relish mixing it up with him unprepared. Nate was an old young man, and a young older man. He seemed ageless, intellectually nimble and interested in a wide variety of things, and current in them all. He was an idealist, but skillfully practical when necessary, so people turned to him for advice and leadership, and he did not disappoint. Calling people “an original” is probably overdone and maybe stale, but I can’t think of a better term. He and Suzanne have been dear and trusted friends for years. While lacking the histrionics, Suzanne certainly has Scarlett’s grit, which as we were distressed to learn was so necessary during their long ordeal. Nate faced his end the way I would have expected, with grace and as much dignity as one can have in such a situation, with an attitude toward death that suggested “Frankly my dear…”. I will miss Nate, we will miss him, dreadfully.
December 9th, 2007 at 9:45 am
Everyone is aware of Nate’s many accomplishments in the field of Psychology - and we are grateful for all he did for the profession. I’d like to share 2 memories that I have. Ellie and I applied for adjunct appointments in the Dept. of Community and Family Medicine at UF for our teaching in the Family Practice residency in Coral Springs. We first received a congratulatory letter from Nate welcoming us into the Department of Clinical and Health Psychology. Seems Nate had long before arranged for all psychologists to be appointed to his dept. along with other affiliations. To me, maybe a subtle, but very important sign of his foresight for the profession. The 2nd memory was at an FPA Convention in Palm Beach. As part of the party, Nate played in an “Air Band” and really rocked! He had a great time and helped loosen up about 300 of us for what was a memorable evening for all. He was a special guy.
Bob Wernick
December 9th, 2007 at 9:02 am
Dear Suzanne and family:
I am so touched by your wonderful webpage in remembrance of Nate. The emails you sent during Nate’s illness helped us feel like we were a part of his precious final weeks. Although I’ve heard MUCH about Nate’s wonderful children from both Nate and Suzanne, I am so glad to actually get to see them in the photos you posted. Such a rich life led by a wonderfully productive and generous man! I will miss his grumbling about the state of our profession, as well as his sage “advice” (”you better do this NOW!”). Still waiting for a picture of his gardens and Koi pond….
Love,
Bev Thorn
December 9th, 2007 at 9:01 am
I first met Suzanne when I was serving on COPPS, when she served as liaison to our parent board, BPA. Although Nate was prominent in APA at the time, I never really had contact with him in that context. But through Suzanne, who shares an interest with me in nature photography, both Suzanne and Nate traveled with my wife and I to the tropics–Belize, Costa Rica, and Trinidad and Tobago. In these travels, I grew to feel enormous affection for Nate–warm, caring, opinionated, brilliant, knowledgeable, and just plain fun. I’ll miss him very much.
And Suzanne, after reading your email posts chronicling Nate’s last months, your experiences with healthcare professionals are unbelievably horrible, and your family experiences around the time of Nate’s death unbelievably moving.
Phil Witt
December 8th, 2007 at 8:32 pm
I was very saddened to learn of Nate’s death, but grateful that Bonnie and I were able to spend a few hours with Suzanne and him back in March, during a visit to Tallahassee.
I first met Nate in 1982, when he was the President-elect and Chair of the search committee that hired me as Executive Director of the Florida Psychological Association. It was certainly a gamble, as I had no experience with associations, and had to learn the trade on the job. Thanks to Nate, I’ve had a wonderful career in the profession. He was always supportive, always understanding, always dedicated to the profession. We remained friends, though living far apart, after I moved on from FPA in 1993. He is one of those people who will leave such a hole, it is hard to imagine the world without him. I shall always be grateful for his friendship, and for having known him.
–Bob Hall
December 8th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
Dear Suzanne,
Suzanne–As I was your age-mate as we travelled through our pregnancies with our two daughters’, and our lives as academic pediatric psychologists, thereafter, one truth I was certain of, was how much you loved Nate! Your sensitive and intimate care of Nate after his recent stroke was such a ltribute to your relationship, your marriage!
I am holding you and your daughters closely in my thoughts and heart and know that in time, you all will recover from this tremendous loss.
With much love, Barbara
December 8th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
Nate was a real hero to many of us in psychology, and will be greatly missed. Personally, he was a valued supporter during my years within FPA, and his support of me, the orgainzation, APA and ABPP are professionally valued. Most importantly, though, Nate was a kind and thoughtful individual who enjoyed life and helped those around him do the same. I trust he is at peace and in good hands.
December 8th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
When our family visited Nate, Suzanne and the girls a few weeks before his death, it was so hard to say goodbye because we knew we were unlikely to see them all together again. We spoke about many things that day and one of them was recognizing that Nate had lived his life fully, loving those around him and had reached this final stage without regrets. What an example to those of us who survive him. In the past seven days I have thought about that often and know his example will be one of Nate’s many ‘living legacies’ for me.
Suzanne - thank you so much for making sure we were included in Nate’s final days. I wish I could have done more to help with the healthcare challenges you faced. Thank you too for letting Lee, TL and I see all of you together that one last time.
We love you all, Kathy
December 8th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
Nate was a lovable curmudgeon. He could be cantankerous and, if your views were different, occasionally annoying. And I loved him for this.
I admired and respected his passion for clinical and health psychology, his commitment to APA and to all efforts to improve the status and quality of psychology.
And I loved his wit. Over the thirty or so years I knew him, there was never a conversation, however serious, that was not leavened by his wry humor and appreciation for the surreal.
Nate was for me and countless others a source of wisdom, good humor, sound
judgment, and utter dedication to what, next to his family, was his great love –
APA and especially clinical/health psychology. A real mensch.
December 8th, 2007 at 5:15 pm
Suzanne,
This is just a brief note to let you know that many in the department have been thinking about Nate, you, and all of the family during this difficult time. Despite it being almost a decade since his retirement, he is still remembered by those who knew him.
As I remember Nate, I find myself thinking of him as a man of great complexity – a man of contrasts. He was a man who, as a prominent psychologist on the national scene, was never hesitant to take on any opposition when advocating for what he believed to be a worthy cause. Neither did he back off, as Chair, when advocating for his department during difficult circumstances. While at times there may have been costs for taking a stand, the department and the profession of psychology frequently benefited from his strength of conviction and his tenaciousness. I also remember a gentle side! There were those times when there were no major causes being defended or professional issues being debated, when I would just happen be in his office and hear him speaking lovingly to someone on the phone, whom he often called “sweetie”, and whose name was Suzanne. And, there were many, many, other times that I would hear him speak with great pride of his children, who he clearly loved deeply and who brought great joy into his life. While I knew many sides of Nate, after all is said and done, I remember him most clearly as being a man who cared deeply for family!
You should know that the department, that was for so many years the focus of Nate’s professional efforts, continues to thrive. It is my hope that, even at the end, Nate fully realized that he had reason to be extremely proud of what he accomplished in his many years as Chair. The strong foundation he built has made the more recent growth of the department possible. Indeed, it stands as a monument to his strong academic leadership and a dedication to excellence.
I want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time.
God Bless,
Jim
December 8th, 2007 at 3:26 pm
As the newest member of the Board of the Friends of Lake Jackson, I want to say that I am immeasurably sad that I didn’t have more time to get to know Nate better. As I read the testimonials and condolences, I truly feel robbed of the opportunity to know him better, to know him in the fullness of his life and health. I knew Nate as a gentle but piercing intellectual, a person willing to mediate but who didn’t shy away from controversy or confrontation if necessary. Like many others before me, I am incredibly moved by the strength and courage that you, Suzanne, have shown in the face of this terrible destiny.
He loved “our” lake. I mourn the fact that we will no longer have his help and guidance. Thank you for caring for him in the way that no one else could have. Now try to be at peace.
Phyllis DePriest
December 8th, 2007 at 3:12 pm
A powerful man, but with his family, his plants and fish, so tender. During the last weeks of his life, while the rest of him slowly fell away, what remained was his core of tempered steel. Always the raconteur, between bouts of sickness, he spun his tales, sometimes the same old ones, but always with good humor and panache.
This year, Nate died just before he could partake of his annual feast of potato latkes. There will be less luster in Chanuka without Nate’s presence, his quiet reminder that latkes (latkees, he pronounced them) were best when fried thin and crisp.
December 8th, 2007 at 2:09 pm
Suzanne and all of Nate’s children,
I am so saddened to hear of Nate’s loss. It certainly is a big one. By the time I had to opportunity to meet Nate he had become a wise lion who guided the path of our department and dispensed personal advice to me with the confidence of having seen just about everything. I always enjoyed my time with Nate. A straight shooter? Most definitely. But I was among the many young faculty who Nate took special care to nurture. I was most certainly on of the many beneficiaries of those moments when Natie’s boundless commitmet, tenacity and vision conspired to make the place a little better than when he’d found it.
My heart’s out to you, Suzanne. I have read your emails tracing your personal battle as you both fought this valiant battle together. Your strength has never ceased to amaze me. I will have many fond wishes for your and your family in the days to come…… Gar
December 8th, 2007 at 1:48 pm
Dear Suzanne,
We are saddened for your loss. Although we did not know Nate well, we have great respect for him and all that he did. Please accept our deepest sympathies and know that our thoughts are with you and your family.
December 8th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
Suzanne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
December 8th, 2007 at 1:34 pm
Suzanne,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. I have read all that is on the website and feel closer to you in your journey of the past few months, yet so far away. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to visit with you last winter when we were able to share and remember stories with each other. May you find peace in your memories and family. Tina
December 8th, 2007 at 1:29 pm
What can we say about a friendship that has lasted over six decades? We loved Nathan dearly.
We go back to the very early days in St. Petersburg. We had a group of friends who were always together. You could usually find us at the local Kenwood Sundries Drug Store, where one day the boys were all playing poker in the empty lot next door. A “friendly” neighbor turned them in. The girls watched as they were taken away in a police car. At the station they were asked to show their “poker pot”, it was sixty cents; they were released; and when Nathan was in the Navy, stationed in Jacksonville, he would give blood to get enough money to come home, head right to Kenwood’s, borrow a nickel and make a phone call to get a date for the weekend.
If we weren’t at Kenwood’s, we could usually be found at Mike’s folks’ home. Again, playing cards, listening to “records” or just being together. We can remember Nathan sitting at the desk, working on a term paper, with all the noise around him. He’d finish his “task at hand”, then be ready to join in.
Or, we would all be at the softball field, where the boys had formed a team and played in the Passtime League. The girls were always in the stands, cheering them on. One year they were sponsored by Kenwood’s Drugstore and another year Mike’s Dad sponsored the team.
We watched Nathan on the basketball court at SPHS, and on the stage in “Life with Father”; we watched him graduate and go into the Navy in 1950. And then of course, the rest is History…….
Those were great times. We formed lifetime friendships. We all married. Some stayed in the area, some moved away, but the friendships stayed in tact. We will miss our dear friend, Nathan, but he’ll always remain in our heart along with our memories.
Our love and prayers are with Suzanne and all of Nahtan’s six children.
December 8th, 2007 at 1:07 pm
I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO NOT ONLY EXPRESS MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY FOR THEIR TREMENDOUS LOSS, BUT ALSO WOULD LIKE TO TELL A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE NATHAN THAT I KNEW BACK IN THE FIFTIES. HE SEEMED TO BE A VORACIOUS READER AND ALWAYS HAD A PAPERBACK NOVEL IN HIS BACK POCKET, AND, IF I REMEMBER CORRECTLY, HE PARTICULARLY LIKED THE ZANE GREY WESTERNS. HE PLAYED THIRD BASE ON THE KENWOOD DRUGS BALL TEAM AND HAD AN EXTREMELY STRONG ARM. HE WAS A TERRIFIC PING-PONG PLAYER AND HAD A SLAM THAT WOULD KNOCK YOUR EARS OFF.
HE WAS A REGULAR GUY THAT WAS FUN TO BE AROUND AND KNEW HOW TO ENJOY LIFE. IT IS NO WONDER THAT HE WAS SO SUCCESSFUL AND EFFECTED THE LIVES OF SO MANY. HE WAS A BORN LEADER JUST WAITING TO HAPPEN.
December 8th, 2007 at 11:56 am
Dear Suzanne, Erika, and Marissa,
Samantha, Zachary and I are so glad that we stopped to visit last summer. Nate talked proudly to us about all the things that Suzanne was doing in her life and that he could be part of it as “Mr. Johnson.” He enjoyed sharing his fish with us, ping pong table, pool table, hot tub, and a great spaghetti dinner. He truly was a family man, caring man, honorable man and a loving father. I am so sorry for our family loss. He will be greatly missed by all!
December 8th, 2007 at 9:32 am
I am so sad to learn of your loss. Having gone through much the same process as you when my wife and partner of 49 years passed away almost 3 years ago, I have great sympathy for what you must be feeling. Your emails detailing the experiences you and Nate and your family faced in dealing with the health system were so heart wrenching and familiar that it took me several tries to read them and then I had to give up before making it all the way through. It was just too painful and much of it still makes me angry. We should have a better system than we have. I am very sorry your had to go through all that when you were losing the love of your life.
Nate and I worked together for many years in APA. We did not always agree, but we always respected each other’s opinion and listenedd to each other. I looked forward to talking with him and to hearing his views, because they typically were well conceived and gave me food for thought. We always came together in our love for the profession and for APA.
I shall miss seeing him at various APA events and meetings and I will miss our talks. I admired and liked him a great deal. He will be sorely missed.
You are fortunate to have youe family to share this experience. I know that mine was almost literally my salvation. I do not know how I could have coped without them. Such losses are grevious and never completely heal, but finally, one is left mostly with lots of pleasant and comforting memories which are a source of pleasure even when they hurt more than a little.
Peace. I will keep you and yours in my heart and my thoughts. And thanks for giving all of us this vehicle for sharing our farewells to Nate.
ron
December 8th, 2007 at 9:25 am
Nate was always an integral part of my experience with the Florida Psychological Association. When I became involved he was a past-president and chaired the Legislative and Public Policy Board for many of my early years. He always had an excellent handle on legislative and professional issues, accompanied by a delightful sense of humor about it all. Through the years I always enjoyed and appreciated his support of both early career psychologists and of others seeking professional advancement. Personally I always found him to be supportive and helpful. After his retirement I enjoyed the pleasure he took in Suzanne’s accomplishments. We will miss him.
Carolyn Stimel, Ph.D., ABPP
December 8th, 2007 at 9:08 am
I am so sorry to learn of Nate’s passing. I was an intern at Gainesville in the early 70s. Nate and I were quite different in temperament, but I gradually discovered we often shared perceptions of lots of professional situations. From time to time afterwards, I would call on him to vent, be challenged, and to challenge him. He was a voice of moderation, but one I could very much respect. He was not afraid of my radicalism and my passion, but he could calmly raise questions about the effectiveness of particular actions and put complexity back into the analysis. I listened to him, probably a lot more than he appreciated. I will miss his wisdom.
December 8th, 2007 at 9:03 am
I was a graduate student when Nate Perry was chair at the U of Florida in the late 80’s and early 90’s. Through example, Nate taught me that one’s success has less to do with a title and more to do with tenacity and willingness to speak out. Nate forged relationships with Florida’s legislature and was able to leverage that into greater status and resources for the department at a time when there were sharks in the water in the med school. There was also something mysterious about him — we were also vaguely aware that he had done spooky research and sometimes wondered if he might be jetting off to meet in places that required eye scans and secret passwords. As an administrator, he seemed passionate about bringing resources to his people and he had high expectations for his faculty and students — sometimes those expectations led to conflicts and this never appeared to bother him. Suzanne was a funny match for him — she was always accessible to the students and down to earth in contrast to his “gruff captain” persona in our department– most of all I am sorry for her profound loss.
I was always aware that they were lovers and life partners.
Dan Shapiro
December 8th, 2007 at 8:40 am
As Suzanne’s brother, growing up, I was not always sure about my sister’s taste. Indeed, her tastes seemed boundless. She was the artist of the family – in my mother and grandmother’s tradition. She loved the finer things of culture – food, decoration and travel. But equally, she was my father’s daughter – a lover of science, history and politics. Engineering was in her heart – as she constantly sought to make everything just right.
While stunning, my sister’s omnivorous presence was not always easy for a younger brother to take. Often I was happy to leave her charge, as she was good at organizing neighborhood play, painting the picture window for Xmas display, or gleaning every detail in a museum. But sometimes it was too much. I suspected that something was not quite right.
Here’s where Nate comes in. When my sister fell in love with Nate, I suspected that he was too much – the attraction of someone larger than life.
But I’ve learned that Nate was the perfect match for my sister. Who else could have so filled my sister’s appetites? Nate loved my sister in all her fullness, just as he loved life in all its fullness. Nate was fully my sister’s match – omnivorous in love. And what a life they made together – a life overflowing, reflected in this webpage and shared by everyone they have touched.
December 8th, 2007 at 7:15 am
We’ll all miss Nate. When I announced his passing in our postdoctoral fellowship training committee meeting this week and briefly outlined some of his many significant contributions to our field, I found myself feeling at once proud of our generation of pioneers and overtaken by feelings of sadness and loss. His words of wisdom and advice that he so generously offered me will not be forgotten. His extraordinary kindness and the fact that he went out of the way on so many occasions to give me a pat on the back when I needed it most have meant much to me over the past several years. I know that many will miss Nate for his professional contributions, and I will too, but it is his personal support and respect that I will miss the most.
December 8th, 2007 at 5:16 am
Dear Suzanne. It was so sad to learn that your beloved Nate have passed away. I had the honour of meeting Nate a few times and he was really such a warm and lovely person. I truly understand that he has left you all with a big sorrow and that he is dearly missed.
December 7th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
I knew Nate through our work on the Council of Specialties in Professional Psychology. Nate and I often had passionate discussions about issues intersecting regulation at the state level and leadership within the profession of psychology. I rode with him several times in the cab and found his stories and anecdotes enriching. I will truly miss him, and wish he were still here–I guess he is in the words I’ll hear in the background of my own thoughts. Thanks Nate, I knew you briefly, but will remember it forever.
Kevin Arnold
December 7th, 2007 at 5:44 pm
Erika and Family,
I am so sorry about your loss. I know how much impact your father has had through your life. I hope you remember all the good times that you have shared together and find the strength to keep those memories alive during times of hardship.
I wish I could be there to sendmy condolences in person; but my throughts and prayers are with all of you during your time of loss.
~ Kristin
December 7th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Dear Suzanne:
I am very saddened to learn of your loss. I was also impressed and inspired by Nate’s wisdom, insight, and realism. His passing is also a loss for APA and psychology.
I have also enjoyed witnessing, on a few occasions, the loyalty and dedication the two of you shared with each other. The loss of a soulmate lingers forever.
Please share my condolences with your loving family.
Mae
December 7th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
Suzanne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am flooded with strong, positive memories of Nate’s gifts as a clinician, mentor and administrator. Nate was instrumental in shaping my ultimate career path; his wisdom, insights and counsel was invaluable. Thank you, Suzanne, for chronicling your life with Nate during your final days together and sharing them with us. I found reading your emails deeply moving and immensely helpful in reminding me of what is truly most important on this brief journey we have on Earth-
December 7th, 2007 at 12:13 pm
Erika and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I only met your dad briefly during graduation weekend, but I know that he was an amazing person even just based on the fact that he helped to raise you and Marissa…two of the most genuine, caring, smart, and fun individuals that I know. I put my favorite poem down below. I think it holds true with your dad. He has contributed so much to your lives that you will always carry a part of him with you in everything you do. So every accomplishment that you reach and every one of life’s landmarks that you experience, he will be with you.
With Love,
Sara
i carry your heart with me
ee cummings
i carry your heart with me(i carry it in my heart)
i am never without it (anywhere i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear no fate(for you are my fate, my sweet)
i want no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant and whatever a sun will always sing is you
here is the deepest secret nobody knows(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart
i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)
December 7th, 2007 at 10:48 am
Dear Suzanne,
Please accept my condolences for your great loss and for all you have had to surmount in the past several months.
I had the pleasure of working with Nate through APA governance, most especially on CODAPAR in 1999 and 2000. He was a man of inspiring vigor and one who conistently modelled “speaking truth to power” with piercing humor.
I hope you can find real comfort in the good memories and good wishes of all of us who knew and admired Nate.
Paul
December 7th, 2007 at 9:31 am
Dear Suzanne,
I would like to express my sincere condolences about your loss. I have met Nate only twice last year in Athenes and this year in Tampa but I remember the ease, harmony and joy between you.
Roswith
December 7th, 2007 at 9:13 am
Dear Suzanne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. I read over your emails and looked at the beautiful pictures you posted. It was uplifting to feel the immense love that your family has for one another. I have always been so impressed by your strength and courage. May your memories and stories of life together continue to bring you comfort.
With love,
Sobha
December 7th, 2007 at 8:43 am
Suzanne- I am very sorry to hear about Nate’s death. When my father passed away last year, he was surrounded by my mother, his 6 children and 9 grandchildren. I can’t tell you how much that experience has helped us to bond and move forward with our lives in peace. I wish you and your family peace during this difficult time. Celia
December 7th, 2007 at 7:31 am
Suzanne–my heart goes out to you and your family at this time. Losing someone you love is hard enough; losing someone you adore is immeasurable. I hope you can feel the warmth of the arms of your family, your friends and all of us within psychology around you at this time.
Jea