Dr. Erik Kissa, renowned chemist, internationally recognized photographer, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away July 11, 2017 at the age of 94.
Born and raised in Estonia and forced to flee as a young man by invading Russian forces during WWII, Dr. Kissa made it his life’s work to meet and exceed any challenges put before him, whether at DuPont or through his work as a consultant for the United Nations in India, China and South Korea.
Retired as a Senior Research Fellow in chemistry, Dr. Kissa is still recognized as the leading expert in fluorinated surfactants and dispersions, with 12 patents, published scientific reports and six books still in print. A passionate and skilled photographer, he applied those same research skills to the art of photography. Following years as a consultant for new members in the Photographic Society of America, he served as a columnist for the PSA Journal, answering questions from photographers around the world. This column appeared for 85 consecutive months.
A 49-year member of the PSA, he achieved the designation of master photographer in 2011 and earned numerous awards for teaching. In 2105, he was named a fellow of the PSA. As a 60-year member of the Delaware Photographic Society, he served as a mentor and was named as a lifetime member. In recognition of having 100 photographs accepted in the Wilmington International Exhibition of Photography, he was named a Senior Fellow. Most of his work focused on photographing people throughout the world, though his favorite subjects were his children and grandchildren, whom he followed continually with camera in hand. Known for his startling blue eyes, genuine smile and a unique sense of humor, he left his mark on all who met him.
He is survived by his wife, Lynn Troy Maniscalco; sons, Dr. Erik Kisa and his wife, Kerry, of Virginia Beach, Va., Dr. Karl Kissa and his wife, Wendy Sue, of Gilroy, California and his granddaughters, Kristin and Jacqueline Kisa, and Emily and Joy Kissa. Other survivors include stepsons Michael Troy and his wife, Heather, Christopher Troy and his wife Kerry Ann, and their children.
He is predeceased by his first wife, Selma Kissa.
An annual award is being created to honor Dr. Kissa’s photographic work. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Erik Kissa Award Fund, 1436 Fresno Road, Wilmington, DE. 19803.
