Victor Yellen, a longtime academic leader at the University of Florida known for his intelligence, strong opinions, dry sense of humor and talents as a chef, died April 9, 2025. He was 81.

He was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on December 18, 1943. He liked to refer to his birthday as "Victormas" because it was exactly a week before Christmas.

As an Army brat, he lived in several states as well as in Germany, Japan, and France. He attended St. Joseph Prep Seminary in Holy Trinity, Alabama and graduated from Baker High School in Columbus, Georgia. He loved debating, a skill he learned in high school with his debate partner and friend, Newt Gingrich. Not all his friends shared his opinions — but Victor and his friends always respected each other.

He went on to get his bachelor's degree in chemistry and his master's in agricultural economics, both from Auburn University.

He came to Gainesville, Florida in 1968 to work on a PhD in agricultural economics. Before he completed that degree, he was asked to join the administration at the University of Florida. There, he became the university's chief data analyst supporting the UF President and Provost. He was frequently called upon for his expertise and knowledge by the Florida Board of Governors and Association of American Universities.

Among other contributions, he led in creating UF's universal tracking system. Implemented in 1996, the system tracks students' progress toward their major. It has contributed to student success and improved graduation rates.

He was the point person behind the UF Bank, a university college funding mechanism, created by UF's 9th president, John Lombardi, in the 1990s. And he conceived and spearheaded the weeklong UF employee holiday between Christmas and New Years.

"Victor was a remarkable talent whose ability to do things and invent solutions greatly enhanced his university," said President Emeritus Lombardi. "I have great memories of working with him and the university is better because of him."

Victor retired as Associate Provost in 2005 after 38 years serving under eight presidents and interim presidents: Bernie Machen, Chuck Young, Lombardi, Robert Bryan, Marshall Criser, Robert Marston, E.T. York and Stephen C. O'Connell.

He was an avid cruiser, having been on over 50 cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, and Europe. A great cook and lover of traditional Italian fare, he was known for his Beef Bourguignon, Spaghetti Bolognese and rack of lamb. He frequently cooked for his church community, and his friends and acquaintances looked forward to the feast he made to celebrate his birthday every year.

Victor was an active member of the Queen of Peace Catholic Community and served on their Finance Council for many years.

He was the dear son of Victor and Marie Yellen who predeceased him. He was the beloved husband of Arlene Huszar for 47 years, the cherished father of Mariette Yellen, and the treasured grandfather of Kaiya Varner and Kumari Jordan. He loved his family dearly and was always ready with help and advice.

His funeral mass will be held on May 10, 2025 at 10:00 am at Queen of Peace Catholic Community, 10900 SW 24th Ave., Gainesville, FL. Visitation will precede the mass and a reception will follow at the church. After the reception, his burial will be at Forest Meadows Cemetery Central, 4100 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville.

In lieu of flowers, Victor requested that donations be made in his name to Queen of Peace Catholic Community. He also asked that those attending his funeral wear bright, happy colors.