Dr. George Albert “Bert” Popson, Jr., of Buckhannon, WV passed away unexpectedly Monday, July 14, 2025, at his home.
He was born April 25, 1950, in Brookville, PA, a son of the late George Albert and Patty Lucille Helmheckel Popson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David L. Popson.
He is survived by his sister, Linda K. Mracko and husband John of Abbottstown, PA; niece, Andrea Mracko Turlik (Dan) of Aldie, VA; nephew, Jonathan Mracko (Kristine) of Magnolia, DE; great-niece, Juliet Turlik and great-nephew, Jonah Mracko.
Not only is Bert survived by his loving sister and family but is also survived by innumerable friends and colleagues. He is thankful for each and every one of them for always accepting him into their “families” and making him love Buckhannon all the more.
This includes Andrew (Kim) Aurelio and Mark (Kayla) Aurelio and sweet children Peyton, Samuel, Gabriel, Avery, and Oaklee who affectionately referred to Bert as “Pop Pop”.
Bert earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s from Indiana University of PA and his Ph.D from Clemson University.
He was a physics professor at West Virginia Wesleyan College for over 35 years and also served as the chair of the Physics and Engineering Department. Bert loved his career at West Virginia Wesleyan College more than anything and many said that he understood the true spirit of Wesleyan.
Having been there for over 35 years, he had “institutional memory” of the college and his graduates. Bert was amazingly gifted not only in his subject matter but in gaining the students’ interest.
In addition to his career, Bert also enjoyed the outdoors, riding his bike, kayaking, and hiking in his spare time. He especially enjoyed the time he spent with the Aurelio families.
There will be no public visitation. A memorial service will be held at West Virginia Wesleyan College on August 9, 2025, at 1 PM. There will be another remembrance at a later date.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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