Kurmis, Vilis, PhD (Opi) of Minneapolis, passed away peacefully on 11/26/16, surrounded by family, at age 94. Survived by his wife of 67 years, Irma; sons, Maris and Arnie; grandchildren, Emily, Lucas, Brita and Aldis; and great-grandchildren, Vilis and Talis. Vilis was born in Latvia on 8/15/22. He emigrated to Minneapolis in 1960. He earned a PhD in Forest Ecology at the University of Minnesota in 1969. His career at the University spanned 30 years and took him from Research Assistant to Associate Professor. Upon retirement, he was bestowed the title of Professor Emeritus. After retirement, he continued to teach summer sessions at the University's Forestry and Biological Station in Itasca State Park. There, his favorite activities were researching, teaching, fishing and walking the woods. One of his students wrote, "If the measure of a teacher is his ability to open students' eyes and minds, then Vilis Kurmis is among the very best teachers I have had." He was the best teacher not only to his students, but also to his children and grandchildren. Service to be held December 10 at 3:00PM at the Latvian Lutheran Church, 3152 17th Ave. S., Minneapolis. Visitation at 2:00PM. Dinner and remembering to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Irma Kurmis will go to forest preservation funds, both here and in Latvia.