Obituaries

Anthony “Tony” J. Rozak Jr., professor emeritus of computer art and communication design in the Department of Art, died May 5. He was 83.

Rozak had an exceptional teaching career at UB, beginning as an assistant professor in the Department of Art in 1971. He served as acting chair for art and art history in 1981 and 1982, as well as chair for the Department of Art from 1986-92. After his retirement in 2009, he continued to teach courses until 2014. He also assisted the department in the integration of processing language into the “Intro to Digital Art” course.

Rozak’s research focused on digital typographic systems. He was a scholar of rhetorical strategies, and frequently quoted late colleague Bill Kinser. Rozak was described as a pioneer of computer-generated art and was a master of HyperCard, Macromedia Director and Flash ActionScript.

He was also a valued mentor, touching the careers of many students in the computer art and communication design professions. He was well-respected by students and colleagues alike.

In 2020, Rozak was honored by President Tripathi at the Celebration of Faculty and Staff Academic Excellence for his 50 years of service to the university, receiving the rank of professor emeritus.

He served his community with love and charity. He was actively involved in his church and with Kairos Prison Ministry. He served as president of the local Society of St. Vincent de Paul and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

Services were held June 2 at Immaculate Conception Church in East Aurora. Memorials may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at Immaculate Conception RC Church or Hospice Buffalo Inc. Online condolences can be left at howefuneralhome.com.