Svante Bernhard Erling, long-time professor of religion at Gustavus Adolphus College, died July 1 at the age of 94. Known for his exacting academic standards, he was a fixture on campus until the end of his life.

Daily jogs every day but Sunday continued into his late 80s, and thereafter he walked his route, picking up garbage on the way.

An expert on Dag Hammarskjöld's writings and Swedish theology, he was known internationally, and lived abroad in Sweden, Germany, England, Japan, Nigeria, and the Holy Land.

He loved to tell jokes, argue a point, grapple with an idea, and sing with his rich baritone. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.