James J. Korst

Dr. James J. Korst (Jim), 91, formerly of Old Lyme, CT, passed away at home in Bloomfield, CT, on December 19th, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois, with his five brothers. He obtained an MS in chemistry at Dartmouth College, a PhD in organic chemistry at University of Wisconsin, and served as Chemistry teaching fellow at both institutions. He spent his entire career at Pfizer Central Research in Groton, CT, where he met and married the love of his life Hedy Rubin in 1960. They moved to Old Lyme to raise their family, where they enjoyed the next 50 years.

Jim will be remembered for his analytical mind, dry sense of humor, commitment to education, drug and chemistry patents, and strong family values. As a man of many interests, he was a sharp bridge partner and pocket billiards player. His pride and joy included his considerable gardens and antique Brunswick pool table that he restored himself, one of many projects where the whole family participated. Throughout marriage, Jim and Hedy enjoyed traveling and years of collecting artwork. Jim was always looking for the next best project to undertake, which he researched extensively and never failed to complete. His enthusiasm and generous spirit will be missed.

In addition to his wife Hedy, Jim is survived by daughter Karen Korst Bullot and partner Louis Hahn of Spencertown, NY; son Gregory Korst and wife Jill of San Anselmo, CA; son Dr. Robert Korst and wife Marisa of Franklin Lakes, NJ; as well as grandchildren Melissa Saunders and husband Ryan, David, Michael, Matthew, Mark, Alexanne, and Kayden.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Christ the King Church, 1 McCurdy Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371, on Saturday January 14th, 11:00 am. There will be a calling hour prior to mass in the church at 10:00 am. Charitable donations in Jim’s name may be made to Christ the King Church or Florence Griswold Museum, 96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT 06371. Please visit www.fultontherouxoldlyme.com for tributes and directions.