Joseph Robert Razek, who taught accounting at the University of New Orleans for more than 25 years, died on April 17 in Georgetown, Texas. He was 78.

Razek joined the University of New Orleans in 1977 as an associate professor and was promoted to professor seven years later. Originally from Landsdowne, Penn., he received his bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University, an MBA from University of Michigan and a doctorate from the University of Illinois. Razek also served in the U.S. Air Force.

Philip Harmelink, chair of the Department of Accounting, recalled Razek as “a very dedicated accounting teacher and faculty member.”

While at the University, Razek taught undergraduate and graduate level courses and in the MBA and executive MBA programs. An expert in governmental and not-for-profit accounting, Razek authored many papers and co-authored multiple editions of an introductory textbook on that subject with colleague Gordon Hosch, also a University of New Orleans professor emeritus.

Razek voluntarily retired in 2003 and was named professor emeritus. He moved to Georgetown, Texas, where he was active in his church and community. He was passionate about University of Michigan athletics, trains, accounting and his family.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Cordelia Lindsey Razek, and daughter and son-in-law Eleanor Razek Gaboardi and Michael Gaboardi, and sister Eileen Hawlk. His is survived by daughter, Erica R. Doris and spouse Bruce of Hartsdale, NY; daughter, Margaret R. Zimmerman and spouse Terry of Pflugerville, Texas; and grandchildren, Ryan R. Zimmerman, Jamie Zimmerman, Joshua Zimmerman, and Dexter J. Doris.

His family celebrated his life with a memorial service on April 22. They ask that donations be made in his memory to any animal charity.