Western Washington University
09/13/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/13/2024 10:43
In Memoriam: Rudolf “Rudi” Weiss
WWU News
In Memoriam: Rudolf "Rudi" Weiss
September 13, 2024
Rudolf "Rudi" Weiss, professor emeritus of German and Linguistics, passed away on Aug. 22 in Bellingham at the age of 82.
Prof. Weiss graduated from WWU in 1963 with degrees in music education and German. After then completing his doctorate in Germanic Linguistics, he returned to WWU in 1970 and taught German and Linguistics for 38 years, until 2008. He served as chair of the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures from 1984-1991 and as director of the Linguistics Program from 1991-2008, during which time he spearheaded the establishment of the linguistics major.
Prof. Weiss was awarded a WWU Outstanding Teaching Award in 1985 and, in 2001, Laureate status in the International Society of Phonetic Sciences.
After his retirement, Prof. Weiss remained an active supporter of Linguistics at WWU.