Dr. Walter C. Morgan III, age 86, of Brookings, South Dakota, a 12th generation American whose ancestors helped found and settle the original New England colonies, passed from this earth on Monday, February 4, 2008. Dr. Morgan was born December 22, 1921, son of the late Walter C. Morgan II and Margaret J. Allyn. He grew up on a farm in Mystic, Connecticut, and is survived by his wife, Joan Morgan, of Brookings; three daughters, Nancy R.Ohnstad (Bob) of Miller, South Dakota, Margaret M. Pfeifer of Lancaster, Kentucky, Elizabeth Brandel (Lanning) of Cobleskill, New York; five grandchildren: Shellum Morgan, Jeremy Pfeifer, Anna Ohnstad, Martha Reed (Nate), Laura Piercy (Sam), Julia Brandel; and two great-grandsons. Dr. Morgan was a proud member of the Brookings community since he moved here and built his home on the edge of town in the early 1950s. He was a professor of Poultry Genetics at SDSU until his retirement in 1986, teaching and doing research. He participated in the Pitchblenders Barbershop Chorus, was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church, the SDSU International Club, the SD Poetry Society, the National Science Foundation, the American Legion, and the VFW. Walt was also active with the Boy Scouts of America for most of his life, earning the distinguished Silver Beaver award for a broad range of community service. He wrote and published several books of poetry, and was a kind and generous individual touching many lives. Dr. Morgan graduated from the University of Connecticut and received his doctorate from Columbia University. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in North Africa and Europe as a member of the 324th fighter group until the end of the war. During his life he traveled extensively and made many friends in foreign countries, including Europe, China, and Malaysia. He reported on his research at meetings around the world, including Russia, and also spent sabbaticals in Belgium and Australia. Memorials can be directed to the SDSU Foundation for the Morgan Genetic or Morgan Family Music Scholarships, P.O. Box 525, Brookings, SD 57007. Visitation will be at Eidsness Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, February 8, and funeral services will be at the First Presbyterian Church in Brookings at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 9.