Obituary of Valentin Ulrich DR

Dr. Valentin Ulrich, 82, of Morgantown, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at Sundale Nursing Home after a terminal illness.He was born on August 5, 1926 in Palmerton, PA to the late Charles and Kate Mutzelfeldt Ulrich. As a child he resided in New York City Hamburg, Germany and Hanover, NJ.Dr. Ulrich received a doctoral degree in natural sciences from Rutgers University with a specialization in genetics. He completed his post-doctoral studies in genetics at the University of Pittsburgh with further studies in cell biology at the University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada. His varied research in genetics generated many publications in scientific journals. He belonged to several professional organizations.He was a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corp who served in World War II and the Korean War. He received various medals and recognitions, as well as two Purple Hearts for combat injuries sustained at the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War. He was proud of his service to his country.He was a professor at West Virginia University from 1956 â" 1993. He was instrumental in founding and directing its genetics program. He taught graduate classes in genetics, served as an advisor to graduated students, directed their research and served in administrative positions. He received an outstanding teaching award.His interests were many and varied. He enjoyed woodworking, canoeing, fishing and hunting. He was an avid reader, loved the challenge of solving crossword puzzles and was a noted marksman.He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Nancy seven children, Karen Herschman, Daniel Ulrich, Norman Ulrich, Walter Ulrich, Stephanie Skidmore, Patrick Ulrich and Gretchen Ulrich and their families seven grandchildren his brother, Charles Ulrich and his sister, Kate Fear.A Memorial Service will be held at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St., Morgantown on Sunday, August 2, 2009 at 1 PM. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.