Public Memorial Service Set for UW Professor

A date for a public memorial to honor UW instructor Dr. Robert Torry has been set for January 24th in the Visual Arts Center at the University of Wyoming.

Dr. Torry passed away on December 14th.  His passing was announced on the University of Wyoming English Department's facebook page last week.

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Bob Torry. With his keen sense of humor, generous intellect, and enormous kindness to students and colleagues alike, Bob showed us our best selves. We send condolences to Bob's wife Kerry, to his family, and and to all his students. We truly shall not see his like again—but for years to come we shall see him reflected in every student he taught."

Dr. Torry received his B.A. from Hiram College and his Ph.D. from State University of New york-Buffalo.  At the University of Wyoming he was an instructor in both English and Religious studies.

Caroline McCracken-Flesher, Head of the Department of English at the University of Wyoming, remembers Dr. Torry an asset to both the University and its students.  "Bob has been with the University for 20 years," McCracken-Flesher said.  "He truly stood out because of his generosity, his wicked sense of humor and genuine concern for his students."

Dr. Torry was remembered by family, friends and former students on Facebook in the days after his passing.

"I had one class with him 27 years ago, as a German exchange student at UW. still remember the pieces we read and the magic sparkle that radiated from him."
-Ursula Denison

"Bob's passion changed the course of my entire academic career."
-Jim Creel

"He will be deeply missed! I never missed his class and loved listening to his stories."
-Ashley Marie Rousseau-Poch

"He was a great professor and I absolutely cherished getting to be his pupil! What a wonderful man!"
-Lauren Perry

 A private burial ceremony for Dr. Torry was held earlier this week.  Once again, a public memorial will be held January 24th in the Visual Arts Center at the University of Wyoming at 5:30 PM.