The West Liberty University community is mourning the recent loss of two men whose unique and invaluable contributions to the institution will not be soon forgotten.
Retired academic dean Robert Whiting and his wife, Jean, died on Feb. 9 when their Triadelphia home was destroyed by fire. Alumnus and benefactor Lary A. Loew died of illness the same day in Wheeling.
WLU President Robin C. Capehart said, “All of us in the West Liberty family were saddened to hear of the deaths of Dr. and Mrs. Whiting and Lary Loew. Dr. Whiting was a respected educator whose impact on his students cannot possibly be measured. Lary exemplified excellence in the business world, as well as dedication and generosity to his alma mater.
“We deeply feel the loss of these individuals who gave so fully of themselves to the betterment of West Liberty University and to the service of our students.”
Dr. Whiting served the former West Liberty State College over the course of three decades – from the 1960s to the 1980s – with distinction, John McCullough, WLU’s executive assistant to the president, recalled. “He was a fine individual and a real academic leader. He and Jean were good people.”
Whiting was a professor of education and “an excellent advocate of quality teaching,” McCullough said. “He made sure his students received a quality educational experience.”
After serving as academic dean for over a decade, Whiting returned to the classroom to train WLSC students in teacher education. He remained active well into his 80s, McCullough said.
Loew studied economics at WLU, graduating with honors in 1975. He was an award-winning sales professional for the Equitable Life Assurance Society (now AXA Financial) and was inducted into the AXA Equitable Hall of Fame. He also founded his own company, The Cornerstone Group, the only full-service employee benefits agency in West Virginia. The long-time supporter of WLU athletics and accomplished golfer was added to the WLU Alumni Wall of Honor – the highest honor the alumni association can bestow on a graduate – last year during Homecoming weekend.
He also was a recognized expert on healthcare reform who was active in his community, serving on the boards of the West Liberty University Foundation, Northwood Health System, American Legion Post 1 and the W.Va. Golf Association.