Lawrence Roger Soma, VMD, Dipl. ACVA, age 92, of Bolton, Connecticut, died peacefully from heart failure Sept. 8.

Born in Queens, New York, in 1933, he was the son of the late Angelo and Assunta (née Lanza) Soma. Lawrence grew up in Bolton, Connecticut, and later raised his family in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. He studied at the University of Connecticut from 1950 to 1953 before earning his VMD from the University of Pennsylvania, in Kennett Square, in 1957.

From 1960 until his retirement in 2013, Soma devoted more than five decades of service to the University of Pennsylvania. He held the titles of Marilyn M. Simpson professor of veterinary medicine and professor of anesthesia and clinical pharmacology at the New Bolton Center, later becoming emeritus professor. He also served as principal investigator of the Pennsylvania Horse & Harness Racing Commissions Research Program.

A founding member of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesiology, Soma was internationally recognized for his contributions to veterinary anesthesia and clinical pharmacology. He served on numerous School and University committees, including multiple terms on the Committee on Appointments and Promotions, the Committee on Academic Status of Students, and the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, where he also served as chair. His dedication to education, research, and service shaped generations of veterinary students, clinicians, and scientists.

In addition to his academic career, Soma proudly served his country in the United States Army Veterinary Corps. He was commissioned as a captain, serving on active duty from 1958 to 1960 and in the Army Reserve from 1960 to 1966, during the Vietnam War era.

Outside of his professional life, Lawrence was a talented woodworker who designed and built many pieces of furniture for his family. After retirement he discovered a passion for woodturning and began crafting bowls. His work was both beautiful and cherished, reflecting the same patience and precision he brought to his career.