Two retired BSC employees died in December.

James Murdoch, 83, died Dec. 22 in Bismarck. He retired from BSC in 1990 after 24 years of teaching. An experienced electronics technician, Murdoch first taught a TV and radio repair course starting in 1965. He was instrumental in developing the Electronics Technology program in the mid 1970s. Murdoch studied at the RCA Institute, worked for the FAA, and in 1950 opened Bismarck TV Repair.

Esther Steckel, a head resident in Swensen Hall, died Dec. 22 in Minot at the age of 98. She retired from BSC in 1982 after 15 years as "dorm mother." Before that she worked at a number of retail establishments. After retiring and moving to Minot, she remained active in the community.