Obituary of Professor Moore

Professor William Robert Moore, 81, of Augusta Ave, Morgantown, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2009, at Ruby Memorial Hospital.Bob, as he was known to most, was born in Minneapolis, MN on July 18, 1928, the son of the late Cecil and Lena Moore. Bob graduated from high school in Minnesota and moved to Los Angeles where he received his BS degree in chemistry from UCLA in 1950 and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He received his PhD in chemistry from the University of Minnesota. He then did his post-doctoral work at MIT, and later went on to teaching as first assistant, then associate professor there. It was at MIT that Bob met and married his wife, Phylis. In 1972, he accepted a position as Chairman of the WVU Chemistry Department and moved with family to Morgantown. He served in this position for the next 13 years, and then continued as full professor and returned to teaching chemistry. Throughout his tenure, Bob was a great champion of the Chemistry Department, its faculty, and students. One of his proudest achievements was overseeing the renovation of Clark Hall. Bob retired in 1997 but remained active in the department as professor emeritus. He maintained the departmentâs gas chromatography equipment and instructed students in its use and continued to work in both office and lab up to the present. Bobâs love of chemistry, his diverse experience, and his enthusiasm influenced and inspired many students over the last several decades.Bobâs love of sports is well known to his friends. He was a great fan of all Mountaineer sports programs and rarely if ever missed a home football or basketball game. He could often be found outdoors. He had a passion for gardening and many neighbors and colleagues were recipients of his gardenâs bounty. In winter months he loved skiing with his friends. Of course, many people will remember his love for engaging in conversation on a wide range of topics.Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Phylis, his sister Joyce (Harry) Peterzell of Los Angeles CA, his sister Jan (Herb) Smith of Murrieta CA, his daughter Karen of Morgantown WV, his son Steven (Lori) of Rochester NY, his daughter Trisha of Tampa FL, three grandchildren, Gillian, Jonathan, and Zachary all of Rochester NY, and several nieces and nephews residing in California. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Lena Moore, and his sister Virginia (Robert) Sewell.Cremation services will be provided by Hastings Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at E. Moore Hall on January 23 at 10:30 a.m.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bobâs memory to the River Valley chapter of the American Red Cross, 1299 Pineview Drive,Suite 300, Morgantown, WV 26505.