Obituary of Robert L. Wise

Robert L. Wise, 80, passed away Sunday, September 23, 2007 at Akron City Hospital. He was born in Jollytown, Pennsylvania and was a member of Allenside Presbyterian Church. Robert was an art teacher for Akron Public Schools for 33 years. He taught in the elementary schools in the Kenmore neighborhood, then 9 years at Innes Middle School, and his last 15 years at East High School. He volunteered for many years at the International Institute teaching the English language to newly arriving immigrants. He was very proud of his ability to speak Spanish fluently. In his younger days he traveled and studied extensively in Mexico and Spain. He loved the fine arts and especially the Akron Symphony Orchestra. Several years ago he endowed a chair, the tuba chair "Tucker Jolly", in memory of his longtime teacher and mentor, Flora Bump. His passion in the summer was to raise tomatoes and peppers. In the fall and winter he loved to watch collegiate football and basketball. In this last year, he established the Robert L. Wise Scholarship for the College of Fine and Applied Arts. He is survived by brothers, Allan (Dolores) of Massillon and William (Betty) of Akron; niece, Sandra (Kenneth) Noon; nephews, Mark, Gary (Becky) and Tom Wise and Bob Wilson. Special thanks to Richard Smith, his best friend; and to Cheryl Martin, his dedicated caregiver. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. In memory of Robert, you may wish to consider a gift to the University of Akron, Department of Development, Paul E. Martin University Center, Akron, Ohio 44325-2603, designate to: Robert L. Wise Scholarship; or to Allenside Presbyterian Church, 410 Rexford St., Akron, Ohio 44314. (Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz, 330-724-1281, www.kakfh.com , AN ANTHONY FUNERAL HOME)