Patrick Tork

Patrick Tork was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 1988.

Born on May 19, 1905, in Fairmont, W.Va., Tork (known in his youth as “Patsy”) faced financial challenges early in life, leaving school in the fifth grade to work a variety of jobs. With the support of mentor Dr. L.D. Howard, he returned to education, graduating from Fairmont High School at age 21. He went on to earn an A.B. degree from Fairmont State College in 1931.

During the years between high school and college, Tork taught at Barnes School and became well known in Marion County for his work with underprivileged students during the Great Depression. He served as Playground Director and later as City Superintendent of Recreation in Fairmont from 1933 to 1942, earning national recognition for expanding youth sports and recreation programs in the city. During World War II, he chaired the Marion County Salvage Committee and served seven years as President of the Junior High Athletic Association.

Tork earned a Master of Science degree in physical education from West Virginia University in 1941. Throughout his career at WVU, he served in multiple leadership roles, including Professor, Director of Physical Education – General Program, Director of the Field House, Assistant Dean of the School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, and Assistant Athletic Director. He was widely respected as an educator in elementary physical education, a football and basketball official, a member of the National High School Federation of Athletics, and an author of numerous publications in physical education, recreation, and athletics. He was also known to the public for his oversight of the construction of the WVU Coliseum and Hawley Field.

Tork passed away in July 1987. He was survived by his wife, Virginia Earnest, his son Dave, and four daughters: Patty, Barbara, Sharon, and Debbie.