Richard Bald Obituary

Athens Richard Bald died on July 7, 2022, at age 90, in his home in Athens, Ohio. Dr. Bald was a beloved professor of Political Science at Ohio University for 35 years, and also served as faculty chair, Graduate Chairman, Faculty Senate Chairman and in many other roles. He received numerous awards and commendations for his devotion to his students, department, and university. He was not afraid to speak his convictions and helped to enact change.

Richard immigrated from Germany to the United States through Ellis Island in 1951 on an American State Department Scholarship. He met and fell in love with a fellow German student at Albion College. He and "Wally" were married in 1955. After completing their educations, they made Athens their home in 1959.

It was not unusual to find every newspaper, magazine, and publication in the house (and there were many) underlined with a red pencil, complete with notations, until just before his death. Richard wanted to be known as a "realist", and stayed immersed in current events, literature, classical music, travel, and just about any other topic that crossed his path. He enjoyed a good discussion with anyone he met. Many years were spent taming nature on the Bald "estate", not without incident.

Richard is survived by his wife of almost 67 years, Waltraud (Wally), son Hans (Laurie) and daughter Karen (Roger), as well as his brother Hannes. A celebration of life is being planned for the fall.

A Richard Bald Scholarship fund has been created. For anyone wishing to donate please go to ohio.edu/give and search using keyword "Bald".

Arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home, Athens. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com. Richard Bald

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Athens Messenger on Jul. 13, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Bald

Sponsored by Jagers and Sons Funeral Home.

6 Entries

Adrian James Tan

July 17, 2022

Dr. Bald inspired me to be a professor decades ago. Always said that I was one hyper student who could not sit still. To think that he taught me during the height of the Cold War, and it was due to him that I took an interest in United States Foreign Policies. So sad to learn of his passing, but his legacy lives on. His teaching style lives on in me. I would always greet him "Grü Got mein herr". So many fond memories.

ronald hunt

July 16, 2022

Speaking for myself and for my partner Bill, I would like to say how saddened we were to hear of Dick's death. Wally and Dick were so warm and welcoming to each of us. When I came to Athens in 1968, Dick was the Chair of the Political Science Department. He was always very supportive of me, new to Athens and to Ohio University, and to me during some difficult times during my career. His contributions to the Department and to Ohio University are enduring and will not be forgotten. Our condolences to Wally, and to the family.

Ron Hunt

Barbara Pfeiffer

July 16, 2022

Dear Wally. I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of your beloved Dick. Sending sincere condolences to you and your family. I know Dick will be greatly missed by many in the Athens Community. Fondly, Barbara Pfeiffer

Bill Saviers

July 16, 2022

Dr. Bald was my political science professor at Ohio University and my mentor in so many ways during my time at the university. He pointed me in so many directions that broadened my life and education. He encouraged my work in the Ohio Fellows, the Honors College and in spending a year abroad in West Berlin. It is amazing that after years of journey you find out so many things that occurred earlier through people you respected and honored but did not know the full picture. It makes knowing as many perspectives as possible a very high and important goal in life. Thank you, sir.

Danny Moates

July 16, 2022

What a wonderful guy! Dick had this infectious enthusiasm that he spread among all his friends. He lives on now in their hearts.

Felix Gagliano

July 14, 2022

Dick Bald was a brilliant colleague and a great cosmopolitan friend. I know no one who was better informed about international affairs and, to my chagrin, he was a much better chess player than I. I will miss you dear friend. Rest in Peace.

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