David Leonard Weening

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. David L. Weening, PhD, a remarkable individual whose brilliance, generosity, love, and humor touched the lives of everyone he encountered. David, born on June 30, 1943, departed this world on January 8, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C., after a valiant battle with heart failure, a condition he faced with optimism for the past 38 years.

David was an extraordinary physiological psychology professor and neuropsychologist, whose passion for neuroscience and dedication to teaching left an indelible mark on his students. Whether teaching at Earlham College, where he was a tenured professor, in his private practice, or working with brain-injured patients and their families in various hospital settings, he exhibited a rare blend of expertise and compassion.

With a Ph.D from The University of Waterloo (Physiological Psychology) and an ABD years later from Miami University (Clinical Psychology), David still chose to describe himself on LinkedIN as an autodidact and striving polymath. A true lifelong learner, David never ceased to explore new horizons, always enthusiastically willing to share his knowledge and expertise with those around him. Perhaps his greatest gifts to those fortunate enough to know him were his incredible sense of humor, his ability to find connections with every person he met, and his mastery of a wide variety of cuisines.

David was a talented playwright and poet. In his retirement, he actively participated in weekly writing, acting and improv groups, finding joy in the creative process and building lasting friendships. Long after leaving the desert in California, he maintained weekly virtual connections with his writer friends in Palm Springs, sharing their works and reactions.

In retirement, his scientific mind continued to flourish. David’s desk overflowed with the latest scientific work on brain functions, computer languages, music composition, and usually at least three or four books he was reading. On his desk at the moment sit My Brain is Too Full, Why We’re Polarized, Think Bayes, The Covenant of Water, and “Shit I Can’t Remember,” which is where he kept track of his passwords.

David's greatest joys in life were the cherished relationships he cultivated. Ruth Clark, his beloved daughter, was a source of pride and endless joy. He adored her above all else until perhaps, the arrival of Etta, his three-year-old granddaughter, who brought immeasurable happiness. Lucky Robinson, his beloved wife of 32 years and soul mate for 50 years, provided unwavering support and companionship.

In the past 13 years, David found a devoted partner in Bob Wilson, who supported him with great affection and patience through various physical challenges in the last two years of his life. Together, they faced adversity with resilience and a shared commitment to making the most of every moment.

In addition to those mentioned above, David is survived by his son-in-law, Joshua Clark, and his dear first cousin, Lisa Norr, with whom he shared a lifelong bond formed in their childhood in San Diego. His impact extends far beyond his immediate family, reaching the lives he touched through his teaching, clinical work, and countless friendships.

May David’s memory continue to inspire us to embrace learning, creativity, and the profound connections that make life truly meaningful.

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A virtual shiva will be held Sunday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. EST. Zoom link:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83586699934?pwd=bG9OZ1lTWlF4QkQzdTh5R2hRbGZVUT09

Meeting ID: 835 8669 9934

Passcode: Shiva

If inclined, donations in David’s honor can be made to the Piedmont Progressive School, a not-for-profit preschool that Etta attends, by check or the donate link at the bottom of the school’s website, www.progressivepreschool.org

Piedmont Progressive School

9704 Mallard Creek Rd.

Charlotte, NC 28262