Dr. Rohter’s wife, Lorayne, was an active member of the University of Central Florida’s Faculty Wives Club.
Highlights
- Dr. Frank Rohter was the first athletics director at Florida Technological University, which later became UCF.
- He passed away peacefully on January 15, 2025, at the age of 101.
- His wife, Lorayne Premas Rohter, passed away in 2005.
- He is survived by his sister Rose, two daughters, Barbara Monte Carlo and Nancy Fontaine, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Dr. Franklin Dale Rohter, a pivotal figure in the establishment of the University of Central Florida’s (UCF) athletics program, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2025, at the age of 101.
Born on September 8, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Rohter’s contributions to academia and athletics have left an enduring legacy.
His journey from a Navy serviceman in World War II to becoming the first athletics director at Florida Technological University (now UCF) is a story of dedication and vision.
Frank Rohter, instrumental in building UCF’s athletics department, dies at 101 https://t.co/9aAkyXfabi pic.twitter.com/T6uTReqk5c
— Orlando Sentinel (@orlandosentinel) January 22, 2025
Dr. Rohter’s Wife, Lorayne, Predeceased Him In 2005
Dr. Rohter was predeceased by his wife, Lorayne Premas Rohter, who passed away in 2005.
Lorayne, a distinguished former secretary at T. W. Lawton and Sabal Point Elementary Schools, was also an active member of the University of Central Florida’s Faculty Wives Club.
Her support and involvement in the UCF community contributed to the university’s familial atmosphere.
Dr. Rohter is survived by his sister Rose, two daughters, Barbara Monte Carlo and Nancy Fontaine, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Barbara Monte Carlo and Nancy Fontaine have carried forward their father’s legacy in their own ways.
Barbara, an accomplished educator, used to serve as the assistant principal at the Seminole County Public Schools, while Nancy, a doctor and professor, has dedicated her career to improving patient care.
Funky Sock day @NNUH to raise money for our #SPCT & #EndofLife activities to improve the experience for patients, families & carers & our colleagues. Great to see our CEO & COO in funky socks! @SamHigginson12 @ChrisCobb54S @Erikadenton6 pic.twitter.com/UyhyNtKJ7a
— Prof Nancy Fontaine (@DrNancyFontaine) June 9, 2023
Dr. Rohter Fought In World War II
Born in Chicago, Dr. Rohter served in the Navy during World War II.
After the war, he pursued higher education, eventually earning a PhD in exercise physiology from the University of Southern California.
His academic career began at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and later at Florida State University, where he directed the exercise physiology lab.
In 1969, he joined Florida Technological University as the first athletics director and chair of the Physical Education Department.
Dr. Rohter’s tenure at UCF was marked by his ability to build a robust athletics program from scratch.
He was instrumental in hiring key coaches, including Torchy Clark for basketball, Gerry Gergley for wrestling and men’s golf, and Dennis Kamrad for women’s rowing.
His efforts laid the groundwork for UCF’s future successes in various sports disciplines.
The UCF Community Mourns Dr. Rohter’s Passing
His death was met with heartfelt condolences from the UCF community.
Terry Mohajir, UCF’s Vice President and Director of Athletics, expressed deep sorrow, stating,
On behalf of UCF Athletics, I want to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Dr. Frank Rohter. Frank played a pivotal role in shaping the early success of UCF Athletics during its days as Florida Technological University. He had an ability to attract and inspire talent, even under limitations, and we commend his dedication and ingenuity. His legacy will remain a pivotal role in our young history.
ucfknights.com
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this time.
Dr. Rohter was inducted into the UCF Athletics Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions in 2005.
Additional Information
- Dr. Rohter was not just an avid runner but also a competitive athlete. He participated in over 30 triathlons, 25 marathons, and 35 10-kilometer races, often winning in his age group.
- His contributions to exercise physiology, particularly the physiology of aging, have been widely recognized, earning him the title of Professor Emeritus at UCF.
