Corey Reigel

Dr. Corey Walter Reigel, 66, of Wheeling, WV, passed away at his home on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
He was born January 10, 1959 in Westfield, MA, a son of the late Robert and Dorothy (Heinrich) Reigel. Dr. Reigel earned his Ph.D. in history from Temple University in 1990 and began his career in higher education. After a few short stints elsewhere, he joined West Liberty University in 2008, where he became Associate Professor of History. He taught an impressive assortment of classes, with topics ranging across American and world history. Known for his rich and wide-ranging lectures, which sparked in many students a long-lasting enthusiasm for historical study. His own research was on the history of warfare, and the ways in which military and societal advancements affect each other.
Over the years, he fostered or adopted many dogs in need of friendship, love and a good home, all three of which Corey provided. Although he enjoyed discussing every topic related to history that he could, Corey relished in talking about his beloved standard poodles; they were his immediate family all his years at West Liberty. The stories he would share about his dogs included their walks, individual canine traits and his plans for the next rescue. These were often punctuated by Corey's wide smile and that deep, hearty laugh. People often said that if Corey had chosen a career in acting, with that laugh and his snow-white hair and beard, there is no doubt he would have landed every role for the perfect Santa Claus. Dr. Reigel's neighbors will remember him for his deep bond with his beloved poodles, feeding birds together and discussing plants.
Dr. Reigel is survived by his brother, Craig (Narda) Reigel; two nieces, Marissa Reigel, Ph.D. and Meagan Francisco; and his three beloved dogs, Elsa, Oliver and Beaudreau.