September 9, 2025

Obituary for Dr. Joseph Laker, Professor Emeritus of History

Below is the Obituary of Professor Emeritus of History, Dr. Joseph Laker. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, September 11 at the Chapel of Mary and Joseph on campus.

Joseph Alphonse Laker, 84, passed away on September 7th, 2025 at Wheeling Hospital, with his loving wife, Meg, by his side.

He was born on March 17th, 1941 to the late Anna Riegel and Alphonse Laker in Indianapolis, Indiana. Following his graduation from Marian College, he taught English in Kyoto, Japan. Joe received his Ph. D in History from Indiana University. He spent the next 33 years at Wheeling College teaching and mentoring students.

Joe is survived by his wife Margaret Geroch Laker, two step daughters, Elizabeth Bradburn (Paul) and Ellen Marie Bradburn, and siblings John Laker (Roberta), Thomas Laker (Mary Kay), Mark Laker (Elle), Rosina Laker Starks (Steve), Catherine Laker Kropp (Peter), Bernard Laker, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by sisters Mary Ann Laker Burne (Carl) and Agnes Laker Kerr (Clyde).

Visitation will be Wednesday, Sept. 10th from 4 pm until vigil services at 6 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Homes, 154 Kruger St. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Thursday Sept. 11 at 10am, at the Chapel of Mary and Joseph at Wheeling University.

Donations may be made to honor Joe’s life to the charity of their choice. Condolences may be offered at www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com