He and his parents, Herman and Alice Bauland fled Germany in 1938 and built a life in Philadelphia, PA. Peter thrived at Philadelphia’s Central High then pursued his education at the University of Pennsylvania earning both his BA and MA in English.
His education was interrupted by a two-year stint in the military during which he returned to Germany and worked as a translator. These years allowed Peter to rediscover his homeland, make some peace with the upheaval of fleeing during childhood, and reconnect with a few remaining childhood friends.
Upon returning to civilian life he earned his PhD in English and embarked on a 55-year career as an English professor. Following his initial years at Lafayette College and Drexel University, Peter made his way to Ann Arbor. He established his professional legacy in the English department at the University of Michigan where his vast intellect, eloquent use of language, and compassionate style touched the lives many colleagues and thousands of students.
Throughout his career, Peter was recognized repeatedly as a favorite among students. He enjoyed teaching works of varied centuries and genres, but adored film and developed his passion into a curriculum highlighting film as literature. Peter had the good fortune to partner with the Michigan Theater and bring his classroom into the majestic surroundings of the theater.
He continued enjoying the pursuit and sharing of knowledge throughout the remainder of his life.
Peter is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 57 years, Abby, his daughter Amy and son-in-law Spencer, his son David and daughter-in-law Amy, and his two lovely granddaughters, Zoe and Talia.
Words cannot express how intensely Peter will be missed, but his legacy lives on in the friends and family who hold him dear and in the myriad lives he’s touched through teaching, acting, and participating in the Ann Arbor community he loved.
No services are currently planned. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the Michigan Theater Foundation, the Jewish Federation of Ann Arbor, or to a charity of choice. Peter was particularly fond of animals and cared about human rights and the environment. Arrangements entrusted to the Muehlig Funeral Chapel, Ann Arbor.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5