Robert Holub, 74, of Worthington, passed away on August 27, 2023. He was born on August 22, 1949, in Neptune NJ, to the late Sol and Marilyn (Silberman) Holub. In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his siblings, Patricia and Michael Holub.
Robert’s roots in Belmar, a charming seaside resort on the Jersey Coast, shaped his early years. Family photos and the cherished stories from his late mother paint a picture of a nurturing and joyful childhood that left a lasting impression, instilling in him values of reliability and thoughtfulness. Following his graduation from Asbury Park High School, Robert pursued higher education, earning a B.A. in Natural Sciences from the University of Pennsylvania. His academic journey continued as he achieved his Ph. D. in German Literature with a minor in Comparative Literature from the University of Wisconsin, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 1979.
Robert’s dedication to academia and his extensive career in higher education is impressive and noteworthy. He spent his entire professional career in higher education, both teaching and in many different positions. He started his career at UC Berkeley where he became a professor of German, and later the Chair in the Department of German, followed by a three-year term as the Dean of Undergraduate Studies. Robert served as the Provost at UT Knoxville, and eventually became the Chancellor at the flagship campus of the University of Massachussetts in Amherst. From 2012 until his death, Robert was the Ohio Eminent Scholar of German at Ohio State University and also chaired the German Department for 9 years. His expertise in German studies, particularly Friedrich Nietzsche’s work and the intricate questions surrounding Nietzsche’s ideas about Jews and Judaism, made him a prominent figure in the academic world. His contributions to the field will have a lasting impact on the study of philosophy and German literature.
Robert was deeply engaged in monitoring the political shifts that were reshaping higher education in the humanities. Through his work on various committees, he actively contributed to the development and preservation of a well-rounded undergraduate education at the campuses where he served. He cared deeply about academic integrity and did not want to compromise students’ intellectual growth and the overall academic success of an academic institution at large.
In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Robert had a diverse range of interests. He was an enthusiastic fan of football, basketball, and baseball, passionately following teams like the GS Warriors and supporting local teams like the OSU Buckeyes. He also cherished the moments spent by the poolside, watching his daughters excel in swimming and water polo, showing unwavering support for their athletic endeavors.
Robert will be greatly missed by his wife, Sabine Scheele Holub; children, Alexei (David) Holub, Madelaine Philine Holub, Shoshanah Michaela Holub, and Natalie Rae Holub and numerous extended family and close family friends.
A celebration of life for Robert will be held Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, at 581 Oxford Street, Worthington, OH 43085.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.11.0