President Wippman’s Writings & Remarks

Josh Biltekoff ’19

March 26, 2020

Tags In Memoriam

Dear Members of the Hamilton Community,

We are writing with deep sadness to inform you that Josh Biltekoff ’19 died on Sunday, March 22. Josh was described by a faculty member who knew him well as “one of my favorite students, and truly one of the most fascinating young minds I have ever worked with,” and a friend said Josh was “a real ray of sunshine on campus, an irreplaceable leader in the music community, and a beloved friend to many, many students.”

A mathematics major and a music minor, Josh was especially passionate about health and fitness and found a place in the music scene on campus. He was a member of the Buffers and Vibes, and joined Mathletics, the Beekeeping Club, the Hamilton Space Society, and Tau Kappa Epsilon. Those who knew Josh will miss his warmth, sincerity, kindness, and his beautiful voice.

Grieving is difficult in most instances, but our separation makes it even more so. Please reach out for support if you need it through the Counseling Center (counsel@hamilton.edu or call 315-859-4340) or by contacting Chaplain Jeff McArn. Jeff has also arranged a virtual community gathering via zoom at 7 p.m. Eastern time tonight. 

On behalf of Josh’s many Hamilton friends, we express our deepest sympathy to his parents, Robert and Darcy, and his extended family. 

David Wippman and Terry Martinez