Peter Lee Minotti, professor emeritus of plant science at Cornell University known for his research on weed control in organic soils and his commitment to agricultural education, died Jan. 31, 2025, in Sarasota, Florida. He was 89.
Minotti earned his Ph.D. in soil sciences from North Carolina State University in 1965. He worked as a crop physiologist at IMC Corp. near Chicago before joining the Cornell faculty in the late 1960’s. His research primarily focused on weed control for crops on muck (organic) soils, work that significantly benefited vegetable growers. David Wolfe, professor emeritus in Cornell’s School of Integrative Plant Science Horticulture Section, said Minotti was “a solid scientist, good with his students and a very collaborative person.”
Former students and colleagues remember him as an excellent teacher and mentor who maintained high standards while providing unwavering support. Vern Grubinger, now an extension professor and vegetable and berry specialist at the University of Vermont, praised Minotti’s thoughtful and helpful approach to mentorship, noting how he encouraged students to pursue research aligned with their interests.
Born Aug. 20, 1935, in Burlington, Vermont, to Ernest and Delphine (Baker) Minotti, his early interests included fishing, hunting, skiing and music. His passion for music, particularly the trumpet, would become a lifelong pursuit that brought joy to many throughout his career and retirement years.
Minotti earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Vermont in 1957. He served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1957 to 1960, and was stationed in Quantico, Virginia; Okinawa, Japan; and Cherry Point, North Carolina. Following his military service, he returned to UVM to complete his Master of Science in agronomy in 1962. It was during his time in the research labs at UVM that he met Lucille Gamelin, who would become his wife of 62 years.
Beyond his academic contributions, Minotti was known for his strong convictions, empathy and playful sense of humor. As Elmer Ewing, professor emeritus in Cornell’s School of Integrative Plant Science Horticulture Section, recounts, Minotti and Lucille were beloved figures at departmental gatherings, where his trumpet playing became a cherished tradition. Outside of work, he pursued numerous interests, including ice skating, cross-country skiing, sailing and motorcycle riding.
After retiring in 1997, Minotti and his wife relocated to Sarasota, Florida, where he remained active in community life through the Rotary Club, Sarasota and Venice Concert Bands and St. Thomas More Church Choir. They spent summers with family on Lake Champlain in Colchester, Vermont, and traveled extensively, visiting China, Russia, South America, Alaska and much of Europe.
Minotti is survived by his wife, two children, three grandchildren, two sisters and two sisters-in-law.
Anahita Verahrami is a leadership communications specialist for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
