Raymon Thompson Carpenter, known as both Ray and Tom, of Lady Lake, FL, died unexpectedly while visiting New Orleans, LA, on Sunday, September 11, 2011.

Tom was born on January 14, 1929, in Topeka, KS, the son of Velma and Charles Carpenter. Following graduation from Yates Center, KS High School, he served in the US Navy for two years. He earned his BS (1954) and MS (1956) from the University of Kansas, and his PhD in physics (1962) from Northwestern University. After working as an assistant physicist at Argonne National Laboratory from 1957-1962, he joined the University of Iowa as an assistant professor in September of 1962. An experimental physicist, he specialized in nuclear and plasma physics. In addition, he was a dedicated teacher, who was able to communicate his passion for physics to his students. Many generations of students will remember the clarity and enthusiasm of his lectures.

Since retiring from the University in June 1996, he has lived in Shelburne, VT, and Lady Lake, FL. Tom loved life, particularly playing golf, listening to jazz music, downhill skiing, and traveling the world with his wife Martha.

Tom is survived by his wife Martha, his sister Terry Chesnut of Wichita, KS, his four children, Debra Berks of Salem, OR, Louisa Tripp of Barre, VT, James Tripp of Government Camp, OR, Clark Tripp of Indian, AK, and two grandchildren.

No services are planned at this time. Condolences may be sent to Martha A. Carpenter, 1417 Torrey Pines Drive, Lady Lake, FL 32159.