By Dakota Knotts, Online Editor
Bernie Kinzel Peace, 85, of Wheeling, WV, passed away on Monday, Jan 14, 2019 in Wheeling Hospital.
He was born October 20, 1933 in Williamsburg, Kentucky and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Art, Berea College, 1954. He later went on to earn his MFA from Indiana University. As well as served in U.S. Army.
Peace was nothing less than a master of his
Artwork by Bernie Peace currently hanging in the the Elbin Library[/caption]
Artwork by Bernie Peace currently hanging in the the Elbin Library[/caption]
In the article “Professor Emeritus Bernie Peace Honored,” Peace stated, “I loved going to work every day. West Liberty was wonderful and I was happy to be there, we had great faculty and wonderful students. I count my blessings every day,”
Brian Fencl, current chair of the art department had only positive things to say about Peace, “One of the most influential things he did was advocate for the space that is now the Nutting Gallery here on campus. Having the administration set aside room for a gallery was something he was really passionate about and get to have happen. It’s part of his legacy.”
“Every Friday after a show would open, Bernie and his wife would come to see the show. He would come when the space was empty and he could spend as much time as he wanted, then when they would walk out and poke their heads into all the classrooms see what people were doing and what students were making.”
West Liberty currently houses several of his works across campus including the Fine Art building and the Elbin Library.
A memorial service is being planned for the spring. Arrangements by Kepner Funeral Home.
Photo Provided By: Media Relations
Michael & Gigi Monezis • Feb 6, 2019 at 4:09 pm
I was an early headache—I mean student— of Bernie’s in 1964. Gigi was hired by Bernie as an art history instructor in 1975. We both cherish many many wonderful memories. Bernie was a friend. I always thought Bernie was just a few years older than I was. I didn’t find out that he was over ten years older until a recent visit a half dozen years ago when over a Bernie Burger (TM) that he exposed his age. Bernie you were always young at heart. Bernie, I will always remember you as the person that educated me just enough to allow me to pursue a successful graphics career. Gigi remembers you as the person that gave her her first teaching break! These achievements that you inspired have cemented your memory in our collective minds for the rest of our lives. I’d like to add many personal stories to my notes here but, I’m not sure about the statute of limitation rules. In my defense, college years are exempt…right… …