Seymour Katz, 83 of Duxbury, died at his home on Dec. 3 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

He was born in Newark, N.J. to Samuel and Sophie (Bloomberg) Katz. He and his wife, Phyllis, moved from Wayland, Mass. to Duxbury in 1976.

Professor Katz graduated from Newark High School, Rutgers University and Harvard University, where he received his doctorate in American Studies. He was instrumental in creating the American Studies Program at University of Massachusetts, Boston.  He retired from his position as  professor there, where he taught since its beginnings in 1967.  He continued to write until his illness, most recently on Jane Addams and a theory of citizenship and civic responsibility. He was also an avid gardener and bridge player, and remained interested in local, US, and world politics.

Professor Katz leaves his wife of 55 years, Phyllis; two brothers; two sons; and three granddaughters.

There will be a reception for colleagues, former students, family, and friends in his honor in early February. Contact Seth Katz at seth.katz@mail.mcgill.ca for more information.  In lieu of flowers, gifts in Professor Seymour Katz’s honor may be made to the Founder’s Prize in American Studies, c/o Office of Advancement, UMass Boston, 100 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125 (with American Studies Founder’s Prize on the memo line).