Former Marquette engineering professor killed in downtown Milwaukee bus crash identified

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — A bicyclist killed after colliding with a bus in downtown Milwaukee has been identified as Marquette University professor emeritus Raymond Albert Fournelle, a longtime engineering professor remembered by former students for his kindness and dedication.

The 84-year-old was riding his bicycle near North Jackson and East Kilbourn avenues Sunday night, July 19, when the crash occurred.

Katharine Weber, who took Fournelle's classes in the 1970s, said he stood out not only for his signature corduroy jacket but also for the way he treated every student with respect.

"He's actually one of only two professors that I actually remember their classes other than their names," Weber said. "In those days, I was the only girl in all my engineering classes, so I was a little apprehensive and unsure because I'd changed my major and he was just very friendly, didn't treat me differently than anybody else."

Weber said Fournelle made a point of connecting with students outside the classroom, regularly attending engineering fraternity events and open houses.

"I was involved in one of the engineering fraternities, and he used to come by for open houses and talk to all the students, and he'd come to all the events," Weber said. "Probably every mechanical engineer that ever passed through Marquette had Dr. Fournelle."

Even after retiring, Weber said Fournelle remained involved with the university community, attending reunions and continuing to encourage former students.

"If you think about all those years, over 50 years, all the students he's impacted, he kept that up, we'd see him again and again later on in reunions and he had the same personality and was always very encouraging," Weber said. "All the times I've been in school, it's always been those teachers that really encourage you and move you forward, and they're the most enjoyable teachers to have because they're the ones you actually remember and look forward to their classes."

Marquette University released a statement Friday mourning Fournelle's death.

"Marquette University mourns the passing of Dr. Raymond Fournelle, professor emeritus in the Opus College of Engineering. Raymond was a decorated faculty member for more than 50 years, and he remained engaged with the Department of Mechanical Engineering during his retirement. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues, and the many lives he touched during his tenure with the university."

According to Milwaukee police, Fournelle's death marks the city's 23rd traffic fatality of the year.

GO Riteway, whose bus was involved in the crash, said it is "fully cooperating with authorities to investigate the incident."

The crash remains under investigation.