Obituaries
Paul Bruce Pipes
Paul Bruce Pipes, a devoted father, husband, and grandfather, as well as accomplished physicist, and educator passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, he was the son of Paul Bruce Pipes Sr. and Opal Pipes.
Bruce’s passion for science led him to earn a bachelor’s degree in physics from Rice University in 1963, followed by a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Physics from Stanford University in 1970. As a Woodrow Wilson Fellow, he contributed significantly to the field of physics, inspiring both colleagues and students alike.
His career took him across the globe, beginning with a postdoctoral fellowship at the prestigious Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory in the Netherlands. He then served as a research instructor at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge before joining Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire in 1972. Over his 24 years at Dartmouth, he taught physics, winning the Distinguished Teaching award in 1985, served as associate dean for science and dean of graduate studies, and later became associate provost for academic affairs in 1990 and acting provost in 1993. His dedication to research also led him to work as a visiting scientist at the National Bureau of Standards from 1977 to 1980. He was a proud member of the American Physical Society and Sigma Xi, organizations that reflected his commitment to scientific discovery and excellence.
Later in life, Bruce moved to Lancaster, where he served as provost at Franklin and Marshall College for a decade before retiring. In retirement, he found joy in his lifelong passion for astronomy and astrophotography, connecting with and creating a community of fellow astrophiles who made regular road trips to their shared telescopes in Florida, finding camaraderie in capturing the beauty of the night skies.
Everyone who knew Bruce remembers his sharp intellect, kind heart, and keen sense of humor. He found joy in everyday moments and made sure those around him shared in the joke. He will be remembered for his unpretentious kindness, approaching everyone he met with curiosity and a generous spirit.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Beverly Pipes, his children, Leonard Pipes, his wife Rita Pipes and Tineka Lebrun and her husband JB Lebrun, five grandchildren, his sister Ann and her husband Art Wikoff.
Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
April 27, 2025
Dear Mrs. Pipes,
Bruce was an inspirational teacher. I had the good fortune to learn from Bruce as an undergraduate Chemistry major student at Dartmouth College. I still remember how Bruce made entry level Electricity and Magnetism tangible and went out of his way to get me through graduate level Statistical Mechanics with a passing grade. I am forever grateful to Bruce for enriching and tranforming my academic development.
Steven W. Cheung
March 24, 2025
Beverly –
Bruce was on my dissertation committee in the late 70s and early 80s at Dartmouth.
He was an adept intellect and quick thinker and I had many, many great discussions
with him about physics. He will be missed.
David Bacon
March 17, 2025
Dear Bev, I am sorry to hear about Bruce’s passing. I think of you often and miss hearing from you. I hope you are doing ok.
Hugs,
Gail
March 16, 2025
One of my favorite professors at Dartmouth as well. He was always prepared, and did wonderful demonstrations during Friday classes, known as “Bruce Pipes’ Magic Show.” I remember him fondly.
David Wright
March 16, 2025
Dear Bev,
I was so sad to hear of Bruce’s passing. He was one of my favorite people at F&M and the best boss I ever had! As Provost, Bruce was a tireless champion for the faculty, creating unprecedented resources in support of our teaching and research. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him. Those were among my most enjoyable years at the College. Wishing you and your family comfort at this difficult time.
With Sincere Condolences,
Fred Owens
March 15, 2025
My favorite professor at Dartmouth — always kind, helpful, and connected. I had two courses with him. The first was an AP physics course, which became a huge source of community for me as he made an effort to have parties for us and have us meet each other. The second was Quantum Mechanics, where he took the trouble to introduce us to important philosophical issues which had an influence on my later spiritual life.
I stayed in touch with him after college — such a wonderful human being!
Anne Barschall
March 15, 2025
Hi Bev, so sorry to read about Bruce today. We have fond memories of us all from years past. Our condolences to you and the family.
John and Joyce Gaherty
March 13, 2025
My father Hallim Slilaty & I met Bev & Bruce over 20 years ago & we were greated with kindness as our families became 1 family! I’ve always enjoyed spending time with Bev & Bruce over the years! I was very to hear of his passing!! Rest in Pease Bruce!! Love Ann-Marie
