Dr. Garth L. Wilkes of Blacksburg, Virginia passed away on Friday, October 21, 2016 at the age of 74. He was born on May 22, 1942 in New York. He was preceded in death by his father Dr. Paul Wilkes and his mother Florence Wilkes.
His earned degrees are a B.S. in Forestry from New York State College of Forestry, B.S. degree from Syracuse University, M.S. in Forestry also from New York State College of Forestry, M.S. Degree from Syracuse University, M.S. in Polymer Science and Engineering from University of Massachusetts, and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from University of Massachusetts.
He began his long Chemical Engineering teaching and research career in 1969 at Princeton University. In 1978, Garth became a Professor of Chemical Engineering at Virginia Tech, where he remained for the duration of his career. In addition to numerous other recognitions, he was awarded the Virginia Tech University Distinguished Professor honor in 1999. Garth was a talented educator, influencing countless students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. During his career, Dr. Wilkes presented more than 500 lectures, contributed to more than 500 scientific publications, and wrote and collaborated on many books and book chapters on polymer chemistry. In addition, he taught over 350 continuing education short courses to diverse sectors of industry, as well as served as a consultant at companies such as 3M, Dow Chemical, Phillips Petroleum, Johnson & Johnson, and many others. Dr. Wilkes was awarded 12 U.S. patents in his chosen field. He was internationally known and respected as an expert in his field of Polymer Science Chemistry.
Garth had many other interests outside of his academic career. He was a gifted guitarist, singer and composer who played professionally in a rock-band while in college. Garth continued to share his love of music with colleagues, family and friends, playing frequently in the Blacksburg area. He also enjoyed hunting, fly fishing and traveling with his wife Barbara all over the world.
He is survived by his devoted and beloved wife of 35 years Barbara Wilkes; brother Bruce Wilkes and wife Joan; his son Scott Wilkes and granddaughter Midian; his son Larsen Wilkes and grandchildren Lacey and Carsten; stepson Roman Karas and wife Marsha, step grandchildren Ava and Nathan; stepson Jason Karas and wife Kristy, step grandchildren Brandon and Chloe.
Garth was a true Renaissance Man who will be missed by all.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Dr. Garth L. Wilkes Memorial Fund “Music for Children”. This fund is for the music programs at Kipps Elementary School and the Blacksburg Middle School in Blacksburg, Virginia, as well as the Cato-Meridian, New York Elementary and Middle School programs. Garth felt that being able to appreciate music early in life and play an instrument would result in a lifetime of musical enjoyment, just as it was for him.
Donations to this Memorial Fund can be made through:
The Dr. Garth L. Wilkes Memorial Fund, The National Bank of Blacksburg, 901 North Main Street, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060
A memorial to celebrate his life will be held at the German Club in Blacksburg Virginia. in 2017. As per Garth’s expressed wish, the memorial will be on the occasion of his birthdate May 22. Please save this date and join us to celebrate together.