Brandeis Magazine

Edward Vassallo, MFA’94, of New York City, an actor and producer, died on Feb. 25, 2014, after a long and courageous battle with leukemia. He appeared as an actor in theater, TV and film, and became a board member of the prestigious Labyrinth Theater Company. “Ed touched so many people’s lives with his warmth, generosity of spirit, and great passion for and joy of life,” writes Jackie Kleefield (“JKlee”), MFA’95, who recalls that Edward’s unique talent stood out in classes and theater productions at Brandeis. He is survived by his wife, Chen He; his parents, John and Carol; his stepparents, Lynne and Paul; his brother, John; and his sister, Elena. Lawrence Holcomb, MA’96, PhD’03, of Lynn, Mass., an assistant professor of psychology at Gordon College for many years, died on April 21, 2014. He encouraged his students to develop ideas and curiosity about life, always challenging them to think beyond themselves and the obvious. He leaves his brother, Kingston, and six sisters, Shiela, Zelda, Julia, Robin, Octavia and Susan.