Professor Emeritus Kermit Cromack Jr., a pioneering forest ecologist, beloved teacher and longtime member of the Oregon State University College of Forestry community, died April 21, 2026. He was 85.
Cromack earned his doctorate in forest science from Oregon State and served on the College of Forestry faculty for more than 35 years in what is now the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society. Internationally recognized for his research in forest soils, nutrient cycling and ecosystem ecology, he helped shape modern understanding of how forest ecosystems function above and below ground.
Before joining OSU, Cromack worked with the renowned ecosystem research group at the University of Georgia and the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory. He arrived in Corvallis in 1973 during the early years of the International Biological Program at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest, where he became part of a pioneering interdisciplinary team studying Pacific Northwest forests. His research on decomposition, fungi, soil biology and forest disturbance helped establish OSU and the Andrews Forest as global leaders in ecosystem science.
Cromack was equally devoted to teaching and mentorship. Over decades at Oregon State, he guided graduate students and young scientists from around the world, many of whom went on to influential careers in forestry and ecology. Colleagues and former students remember him as thoughtful, deeply kind and endlessly curious about the natural world.
Born Aug. 16, 1940, in Brownsville, Texas, Cromack developed an early love of nature while helping his grandfather in a citrus orchard and exploring nearby lakes and fields. He remained an avid outdoorsman throughout his life and shared a deep appreciation for forests, faith and family with those around him. He is survived by his family, friends and former students. His wife of nearly 59 years, Angie Silva Cromack, preceded him in death in 2023.