In MemoriamRichard H. Franke
(1937- 2009)   

A long-time member of the Academy of Management, Richard Herbert Franke, died suddenly on Tuesday, September 1, at his home in Baltimore. He was born on December 19, 1937, in Washington, DC., after majoring in chemical engineering at Cornell University, he earned an MBA at the University of Pittsburgh in 1965, and a Ph.D. in Management from the University of Rochester in 1974. 

His dissertation, “An Empirical Appraisal of the Achievement Motivation Model Applied to Nations,” was directed by Bernard M. Bass. Prior to pursuing his doctorate, Richard worked as a chemical engineer for Union Carbide International, Consolidation Coal Company, Air Products, and St. Joseph Lead Co. He served on the faculties at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, the Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and, since 1983, at Loyola University, Baltimore. He also held research positions with the National Academy of Sciences and the Management Research Center at the University of Rochester.

With his colleague James Kaul, Richard conducted the first statistical re-interpretation of the Hawthorne Studies. His more recent research focused on the impact of pollution, environment and climate on human welfare and productivity, and developing a comprehensive quantitative case analysis technique for understanding and transforming business performance.

He leaves behind his loving wife of nearly 46 years Elke K. Franke; two sons and their wives Martin and Mary Franke; Erik and Michele Franke; grandchildren Madeleine, Lucas, and Thatcher; and Sisters Carol Carr and Marilyn Oliver. Richard is remembered for igniting in his students the same passion and excitement for research that was the center of his professional life. His wry sense of humor and unfailing bonhomie were hallmarks that endeared him to everyone fortunate enough to have had the pleasure of his acquaintance.