Daniel E. Beaumont — January 22, 1952 - August 5, 2025

    Daniel E. Beaumont, 73, died at home Aug. 6 in Rochester, N.Y. He was born in Seattle on Jan. 22, 1952, to Patricia and Robert Beaumont.
    Dan grew up in Portland, Ore., until high school when his family moved to Seattle. He attended Seattle Preparatory and graduated with honors from Bellevue High School.
    His interest in Arabic language and studies began when he worked for his Father in 1980 - 1982 in Libya. His father was hired by the Gaddafi Government to operate Cloud Seeding operations. He often said this experience set the course for his future.
    Dan earned a BA in 1975 and a Masters degree in 1986 from the University of Washington. He left there to earn a PhD from Princeton in 1991. He also was a Fulbright Scholar while at Princeton. University of Rochester hired Dan in 1992 to teach Arabic Language and Studies. His teaching included Arabic, Medieval and Contemporary Studies, European Philosophy and The Blues.
    He is the author of two books: “Slave of Desire: Sex, Love, and Death in The 1001 Nights,” 2002, and “Preachin’ the Blues: The Life and Times of Son House,” 2011. At the time of his death, he was working with a Hollywood Literary Agent on a new novel.
    Dan is survived by his daughter, Lily Beaumont, Kerrville, Texas; his brother, Peter Beaumont, Seattle; and sister, Cathleen Bryan, Palm Desert, Calif.; nieces and nephews, Patrick Bryan and Matthew Bryan, Seattle, Claire Beaumont, Seattle, and Samuel Beaumont, Bellingham, Wash. Lifelong friends, Lisa Salvati, New York City, Curtis Piltz, Portland, Ore., and Adham Hameed, Rochester, N.Y.
    In lieu of flowers, please send a contribution to the University of Rochester Scholarship Foundation, Rochester. Services handled by New Comer Cremation and Funeral, Rochester.
    Dan had a 33-year history with the University of Rochester and its staff and students, many of whom became lifelong friends. His family wishes to thank you for the care, friendships and appreciation shown him over his life.
    Celebration of Dan’s life and career will be held in the University of Rochester Chapel in October. Date forthcoming.