Robert William Wright

Robert William Wright Robert William Wright, 94, formerly of Topeka, passed away December 9, 2017.

He was born October 2, 1923 in Atchison, KS.

Robert was a 1941 graduate of Topeka High School. He completed two undergraduate degrees over 5 years in math and physics at Carnegie Tech University (now Carnegie Mellon University.) He then served in the U.S. Navy in preparation for the planned invasion of Japan.

After his discharge he pursued a PhD in nuclear physics at the University of California Berkeley, where he also participated actively in the International House Program and was a key member of the team that discovered a theta particle without hyperon in 1956.

In later years he worked at the Argonne National Laboratory outside Chicago and later headed up international nuclear safety research programs for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. He is the author of a noted analysis of the 1979 Three Mile Island accident and it's implications.

Bob was equally passionate about politics and current affairs, history, historic ships and skiing. He will be remembered for his enthusiasm, wide-ranging intellectual curiosity and his interest in and generosity to others.

Robert was married to Fern S. Wright in 1954. She preceded him in death in 2002. He was later married to Dorothy Radebaugh Wright from 2004 to 2008.

A private burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery and Funeral Chapel with a memorial service to follow in the Spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Community Foundation or to public broadcasting.

Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.