The Oakland University athletics department lost a great friend on Sunday, March 24, as George Wibby passed away. Wibby was a member of the OU athletics family for the past 35 years. He served as a fundraiser, swimming official, instructor, golf coach (six years), golf course ranger, supporter and dedicated friend and fan. Wibby turned 90 in December 2001. Wibby's service to the university began when he and his wife, Jewell, were two of the early contributors who helped raise money for the athletic department. He has given so much to the athletic program, most of which has been donated to the Jewell Wibby Scholarship Fund, created after his wife's death. The Canada native headed the Michigan Red Cross for a number of years and he retired from the organization after 50 years of service. Wibby also served with the Michigan Swimming Officials Society, the Michigan AAU, was the Michigan AAU Swimming Chairman, and served the Michigan High School Athletic Association for more than 40 years. Wibby is the namesake of the George Wibby Award. The award was established in 1987 in honor of his dedication and devotion to Oakland University. The Wibby Award has been presented to 14 individuals since 1987. It is presented to individuals who are or have been employed at OU and exemplify the spirit and humanity as displayed by George Wibby himself. The funeral service will be Thursday, March 28 at 2 p.m. at the Potere Modetz Funeral Home in Rochester (339 Walnut Street). In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations be made to the American Red Cross or the Oakland University Jewell Wibby Scholarship Fund. The family will greet visitors one hour prior to the service on Thursday.