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In memoriam: Robert M. Grant, Applications Analyst, Information Technology(Targeted News Service Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) BLACKSBURG, Va., Jan. 10 -- Virginia Tech issued the following news release: Robert M. Grant, age 42, of Blacksburg died Dec. 30, 2013. Grant was an applications analyst within Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies at Virginia Tech, with more than 15 years of service in Information Technology. A wreath in his memory was placed at War Memorial Chapel on Virginia Tech's campus. Grant served his country in the U.S. Navy. At Virginia Tech, he performed in a leadership capacity within the Computer-Integrated Learning Spaces group, serving as administrator for a number of computer labs across campus, especially the three labs in Shanks Hall, and the lab on the Torgersen Bridge. Group director Rob Dickert said, "Robert was a straightforward guy who really focused on solving problems for people, and giving them the best support possible. He was a very skilled, positive individual, who was always ready to help. He will be sorely missed." Over the years, Grant taught a number of short courses, and spearheaded a transition to a paperless inventory system. Most recently, he was working on a project to facilitate wireless connection to video displays in classroom spaces. For more than 10 years, Grant was an involved member of the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad. Chief John O'Shea described him as a "consummate professional, who always went above and beyond what was needed." In addition to serving as an emergency medical technician, Grant used his information technology skills to bring the rescue squad to the cutting edge of emergency communications, information sharing, and tracking technology, making the squad a model for other groups to emulate. "Rob Grant and I started with the rescue squad at close to the same time, and answered countless rescue calls together. I could always count on Rob to be the calm in the storm, always delivering the best information, and providing the best care at the scene, no matter what." In 2007, Grant was one of 16 members of the squad to be honored for exemplary service with a Winged-S award, presented by Carilion Clinic's Life-Guard 10. Grant is survived by his mother, Jeanne Grant Ward and step-father, Sam Ward; grandmother, Clarice Bell; uncle, Robert L. Bell; aunt, Joannie Honard; sister, Leslie Woodson; brother, Benjamin L. Grant; niece, Katelyn; nephew, Jacob; and dear friend, Emily Mardakis. His memory will also be cherished by Sarah Worley, his best friend and the love of his life. A memorial service for Robert M. Grant will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, in the chapel at McCoy Funeral Home in Blacksburg. Pastors Tommy McDearis and John Wertz will officiate. As Grant would have preferred, in lieu of flowers, friends are asked to consider making a memorial donation to the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad. Those in the university community who may wish assistance or desire counseling support may contact: * Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557 * Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787 * Office of Residence Life at 540-231-6205 * Human Resources / Hokie Wellness at 540-231-9331 * Employee Assistance Program / Anthem at 855-223-9277 * Employee Assistance Program / Aetna at 888-238-6232 * Employee Assistance Program / Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042 Referrals to a campus cleric may be done through the Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. TNS 30TagarumaMar-140111-4598367 30TagarumaMar (c) 2014 Targeted News Service |