Joseph Julius Lengermann

Dr. Joseph “Joe” Lengermann of Washington, D.C. passed away at the age of 88 on February 5, 2024. Joe is survived by his wife of nearly 44 years, Dr. Roberta Hollander of Washington, D.C.; his daughter Erica (Tim Pippard) Lengermann of Middleburg, Virginia; his son Paul (Ellen Nam) Lengermann of Bethesda, Maryland (from a previous marriage); and, his sister Leona Lengermann of Highland, Illinois, along with his in-laws Nate and Karen Hollander, and numerous nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents Julius and Mary, his sister Sister Julia, ASC, his brother Anton (Tony), his sister Margaret, and his brother Aloys (Al).

Joe grew up in Bartelso and Highland, Illinois before leaving for seminary and becoming a Catholic priest, attending Notre Dame and studying at the Vatican. He then chose to pursue higher education and received his PhD from Cornell University.

As Associate Chair in the University of Maryland Department of Sociology (and at times Graduate Director and Acting Chair), “Joe was the soul of Maryland Sociology for decades and responsible for much of what is still good in the department.” The University of Maryland named the Joseph Lengermann Conference Room in honor of his countless contributions to the Department and the University over 44 years. Joe was the recipient of the Dean's Medal, the highest honor the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences can bestow, for his outstanding and distinguished record of dedication, professional accomplishments, and service to the College.

His research interests covered the sociology of work and organizations and organization and delivery of health care, including policies and practices regarding HIV / AIDS in the workplace. His work took him all over the world, presenting at international conferences and training numerous health professionals.

At the University of Maryland, Joe met the love of his life, Roberta. Their love was one for the ages. They enjoyed exploring the world together, visiting nearly every continent. Some of their most notable memories include trips to Australia, sub-Saharan Africa, and watching hundreds of beautiful cranes landing at sunset at Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge in Southern New Mexico. Joe also treasured European vacations, ski trips, and cross-country drives, including visiting all 50 states.

Joe was also a skilled and active builder. He enjoyed building a cabin from scratch on the side of a West Virginia mountain. He also had a passion and talent for woodworking.

Most importantly, Joe was as humble, unassuming and pure of heart as they come! He was genuine, kind, handsome and hilarious, with a curiosity about others, a quiet confidence and strength, and an infectious smile. Joe was youthful, living life fully, even pulling overnighters at the age of 86 to watch bird migrations. He was always up for a glass with friends to celebrate the good times. He was an incredible husband, father, friend, colleague, and neighbor, who will be sorely missed by many.

Services are private, arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations in Joe’s honor to the Assateague Island Alliance, the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary, or the charity of your choice.