Lewis Churbuck

Lewis Marshall Churbuck, Jr., passed away Monday June 9, 2014 in his Fayette home.

Churbuck was born August 21, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, son of Lewis Marshall Churbuck and Mary Lou (Stock) Churbuck of Chicago.

Lew attended high school at Tabor Academy, Marion, Massachusetts and Hinsdale Township High School, Hinsdale, Illinois, graduating in 1959. Then Churbuck spent 4 years in the U.S. Navy. Lew attended Upper Iowa University for his Bachelor’s degree and graduated in 1967. He went on to the University of Northern Iowa for his Master’s, graduating in 1975, while teaching full time.

Perhaps what will be Churbuck's biggest legacy at UIU is the founding of the Conservation Management major in 1974. He was also proud to work with the University of Iowa to bring Electron Microscopy to UIU.

During his 37 years at Upper Iowa he was awarded many commendations. He as given an honorary doctorate, as well as the Chair of Biology.

Lew's enthusiasm for nature and science got others interested. He could name the local flora in proper Latin on sight. Students of any major found him approachable for questions and counsel. Throughout his retirement students, alums, and faculty have continued to visit him.

Some of Churbuck's favorite quotes have been often repeated:

"You can't hoot with the owls at night and fly with the eagles at dawn."

"When in trouble or in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout!"

"You will miss me when I am gone."……...We do.

Lew is survived by his wife of 50 years, Millicent Kathleen (Davies) Churbuck and daughter, Kim. He was preceded in death by his son Lewis M. Churbuck, III; a sister and a brother.

A gathering of students and faculty will be held for Lew, Thursday, June 19, 2014 at 10:00a.m. in the UIU Student Center Ballroom (2nd floor).

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to Lew's endowed scholarship at UIU: UIU, PO Box 1857, Fayette, IA 52142 or Milly Churbuck, PO Box 368, Fayette, Iowa 52142.

S.K. Rogers Funeral Home is assisting the family.  25u25