In memory of Joseph August Oravec

Wayne State is saddened by the news of the passing of Joe Oravec, 74, on March 22, 2024, at his home in Dearborn.

Joe served as the director of CLAS science stores and IT from the mid-1990s up until his retirement in 2020. Under his leadership, the science stores became consumer-focused and computerized. He was also a pioneer in lab safety and hazardous waste management for the university.

About Joe Oravec

Joseph August Oravec was born to August Joseph Oravec and Elizabeth Louise Kennedy on March 29, 1949, in Detroit Michigan.

Joe graduated from Wayne State University and retired in 2020 after a 46-year career in the College of Science, now known as the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He made his mark at WSU leading efforts in laboratory safety and developing and teaching courses in hazardous waste management and eventually led trends in internet technology for the College of Science in the 1990s.

Often endeavoring to learn new trends and even becoming an expert, Joe loved sharing his knowledge with everyone. As director of both Science Support Services and IT Services for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Joe was proud to have started many students on their path to careers in science.

For arrangements and more information, view Joe's obituary.