Drucilla N. Ekwurzel

Drucilla (Dru) North Ekwurzel passed away September 7, 2020 in Pittsburgh, PA. She was born May 23, 1941 in Derby, CT, to Jacob Arnold North and Edna Ells North. Dru attended Northfield (now Northfield Mount Herman) High School, a community she actively participated in throughout her life. Dru began her undergraduate studies at Barnard College (NY) and obtained her BA at the University of Pittsburgh. While studying economics as a graduate student, Dru began her career at the Journal of Economic Literature (JEL) in 1972. Upon her retirement, the American Economic Association recognized her accomplishments: "Dru was instrumental in creating the EconLit database . . . . Dru adroitly guided the Association's progress in electronic publishing over the decades." She was especially proud of the journal's self-sustaining revenue stream that reduced the cost of membership for economists globally. Dru opened her home to family members and friends for extended periods. At times some guests would appeal to Mom to rein in Dad's tendency to "ask for help" on house renovations. When Dru and husband Lars moved their family to Squirrel Hill in 1972, they became a catalyst that transformed their corner of a friendly neighborhood into an extended family. Dru welcomed a parade of kids into her home and became a stalwart support for aging neighbors and their families. Dru valued her network of close friends, especially Danielle Packer, her roommate in NYC, and vacation and "chardonnay companion" over the years. Throughout her life Dru looked forward to visiting Thompson Lake, ME, where family and friends gathered over generations. Dru was happy traveling and spending time with Nathan, especially during retirement. With Nathan's around-the-clock care and help from doctors and nurses at Hillman Cancer Center and Shadyside Hospital, Mom fought steadfastly for life. The family is grateful for the exceptional care by Canterbury Place Family Hospice. Mom's ashes will be laid to rest in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, New York. Survived by partner Nathan Nissim, daughter Brenda (Vicki Childers) Ekwurzel, son Erik (Elina Garrido) Ekwurzel, grandson Matthew Ekwurzel; siblings Jim North, Dan (Sue) North, Rob (April) North, brother-in-law Rocky Placella, brother-in-law Kari Ekwurzel (Colleen) Ekwurzel, sister-in law Kaaren Ekwurzel Wallace; nieces and nephews David Placella, Susan Quattro, James Placella, Cathleen Jackson, Scott North, Brittainy North, Alexandra Anthony, Tanya Ram, Mark Ekwurzel, Ryan Ekwurzel, Thea Patterson, and Soren Ekwurzel. Predeceased by husband Lars Ekwurzel (10/31/2001) and sister Mary Placella (4/13/2016). Professional services trusted to the care of D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME and CREMATORY LTD., Lawrenceville.

Drucilla N. Ekwurzel

May 23, 1941 - September 7, 2020