Arthur Aryeh Seagull
March 21, 1931-June 14, 2022. His mind and spirit were strong, but after 91 years his tired body said, “enough.”
Arthur A. Seagull was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, therapist and friend. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Elizabeth “Betty”, beloved sons David Seagull, F. Jacob Seagull (Judith Smith) and Jon Seagull (Julie Goodman) and grandchildren Kate Luce, Daniel Seagull, Ethan Seagull and Lilah Seagull.
Born and raised in Newark, NJ, he earned a B.A. from Yeshiva University in 1954, M.A. from Columbia University Teachers College in 1955, and Ph.D. from Syracuse University in 1964. He served in the U.S. Army from 1956-1958. From 1964-1981 he taught at Michigan State University in the Department of Psychology, attaining the rank of Professor. From 1982 until he was in his 80s, he had a private practice of clinical psychology. He loved teaching and clinical work.
Jewish to his bones, Art was well-known for his sense of humor, his use of Yiddish expressions and jokes, and his detailed reading of Hebrew texts. He was a founding member of Congregation Kehillat Israel in Lansing. In late middle age he took up competitive ballroom dancing with Betty, through which they made many friends. He loved travel, cooking for friends, and conversation, which was often discursive, and sometimes hilarious.
The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 16, 2022, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Livestream is available. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. Following interment, there will be a meal of condolence at the family home. Shiva will take place in the family home at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 16.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Art’s memory to Congregation Kehillat Israel.
10 Messages to “Arthur Aryeh Seagull”
Print MessagesPlease Sign The Guestbook
Barbara Werner
June 15, 2022 at 2:55 pmDear Betty, I am so sad to hear the news of Art’s death. You are in my
dearest thoughts today.
I enjoyed sharing with him each time we met. Such a kind and interesting man.
Sue Popovich
June 15, 2022 at 3:41 pmDeepest condolences to Betty and family on your loss of Art. You’re in my thoughts.
Sincerely,
Sue Popovich
Diane Levy
June 16, 2022 at 9:44 amDear Betty,
My thoughts are with you and your family. What a rich and vibrant life. The world is a little dimmer without Art.
—Diane Levy
Lynne Crandall
June 16, 2022 at 9:51 amDeepest condolences to Betty and the family. Art was a great spirit and an exceptional counselor. I can only think of the light he brought to the world. As the saying goes when you find the light of the world you can see to the end of universe.
Kathy Farber
June 16, 2022 at 12:37 pmLove to Art, Betty and family. I met Art and Betty at a dance competition and have stayed in contact for years. One of the greatest joys in the world was watching Art and Betty dance together. If only we could all love as they did!!! Dance on Art! You will always be in my heart.
Jessica Heilig
June 16, 2022 at 2:13 pmDeepest condolences for your loss. The world has lost a brilliant light.
Val Molaison
June 17, 2022 at 2:17 amYou two have been a wonder together, Betty! And what a life you built. So much to celebrate. Condolences to you and your family.
Homer hawkins
June 17, 2022 at 9:04 amI got my PhD in 1971 in art was on my doctoral committee, He was a fantastic mentor.
Louis Seagull
June 17, 2022 at 8:04 pmMy uncle, Arthur, held a space in my head for 81 years. I adored him. My condolences to Betty and my cousins.
Jessica Kovan
June 24, 2022 at 9:41 amBetty and family,
I am so sorry to learn of Art’s passing. He was a fixture in my life for many many years growing up at KI.
Holding you gently in my heart,
Jessica