David S. Noss, 89, of Tiffin, died Jan. 7, 2010.

He was born May 28, 1920, in Japan, to Christopher and Carol Day Noss.

David is survived by a daughter, Jeanne (Tracy) Kline; a son, Roger (Joy) Noss; and seven grandchildren. David was the last surviving of 12 children and leaves numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Elizabeth, in 2004, and a son, Richard (Mary) Noss, in 2009.

While Dr. Noss's passion for learning took many forms, including reading, travel, and attendance at cultural events, his formal education included studies at Franklin and Marshall College, the Pacific School of Religion, Lancaster Theological Seminary and the University of Chicago Divinity School, where he earned a Ph.D. in Religion and the Arts in 1952.

Dr. Noss joined the Religion and Philosophy Department of Heidelberg College in 1950, and continued his work there well beyond his retirement in 1989, not only teaching students, but also as a leader and advisor to faculty and administration. He is well known for his authorship of "A History of the World's Religions," a textbook used on college campuses throughout the U.S.

Dr. Noss was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ, the Tiffin Kiwanis Club, Planned Parenthood and the League of Women Voters. He gave of his time freely over the years to many other organizations seeking to enhance the knowledge and well-being of others.

A memorial service will be at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, at Trinity United Church of Christ, in Tiffin.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Heidelberg University.

Arrangements were handled by Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home, Tiffin. Online condolences may be left at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com.