Founding dean of ASU College of Public Programs Frank Sackton passed away Sunday at the age of 97.

Sackton was one of ASU’s oldest professors, teaching until he was 97 years old.

In 1976 Sackton earned a master’s degree in public administration from ASU and was offered an assistant professorship and resident lecturer position by then-ASU president John Schwada.

Sackton was a professor emeritus in ASU’s School of Public Affairs and also served as athletic director and special assistant to the University president.

Before his career at ASU, Sackton served in the military for 40 years and reached the rank of Army Lieutenant General, according to a statement released Tuesday.

During his military career, Sackton led a battalion of 550 men in the Pacific during World War II. He was also secretary to Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the reconstruction of Japan after the war.

After the war, Sackton became a special assistant to Arizona Gov. Jack Williams in the 1970s.

Sackton spent the remainder of his days in Scottsdale.