Professor Nate Garner, a 38-year veteran of the Theater and Dance Department, died March 22 after a brief battle with viral pneumonia. He was 63 years old.

“Professor Garner’s passing is a great loss to our department … Nate was a gifted, demanding teacher and mentor, a dedicated adviser to our students, and a wonderful colleague,” said Leslie Jacobson, chair of the Theater and Dance Department.

In his time at GW, Garner served in such positions as resident designer and technical director, as well as director of theater and producer. He also helped coordinate the dramatic literature major, Jacobson said. The Theater Department has plans to establish an award honoring Garner and his dedication to GW theater. The department is also planning a memorial service to be held on campus to involve students, alumni and colleagues.

Theater was not Garner’s only passion at GW, said Jacobson, noting “he was passionate about sports, especially the men and women’s basketball teams.”

Garner is survived by his wife, Vickie, and his three sons Will, Robert and Stephen.

The funeral service will be held Monday at 3 p.m. at St. Columba’s Episcopal Church.

-Lizzie Wozobski