GS student Aaron Tinker died on Aug. 16, while at home for summer vacation. Tinker was a U.S. Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient, as well as the father of three children.

The school of General Studies will be holding a memorial service on campus once the fall semester has begun. You can read the full e-mail, from Acting Dean of Students Leslie Limardo, below.

Students can contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 212-854-2878, or the University Chaplain at 212-854-1493.

Dear Students,

It is with great sadness that I must share with you the news of the passing of Mr. Aaron Tinker, a GS student and U.S. Army veteran who first came to our community in the spring of 2011. Aaron, a Purple Heart recipient and father of three, passed away while at home for summer break on August 16. I know that all of you join me in sending our deepest condolences to Aaron’s family, friends, and colleagues.

A memorial service for Aaron will be held in his hometown of Effingham, Illinois on August 23, 2012, and he will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery later this fall. Additionally, the School of General Studies will also hold an on-campus memorial service when classes resume in September. Details about the service will be sent in a forthcoming email.

Whenever we lose someone within the Columbia community, we are all affected by it, whether or not we know the person well. Such a loss can bring about feelings of grief and may bring back memories of other painful losses. Please know that your academic advisor, the staff at Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), and members of the Office of the University Chaplain are all available to provide you with any additional support you might need at this time. We have listed their contact information for you below.

With sympathy,

Leslie Limardo
Acting Dean of Students
School of General Studies
Columbia University