COURTSEY NOTICE
Dr. Carl W. Prophet, son of Alfred and Louise Prophet was born September 20, 1929 in Anthony, KS and passed away February 3, 2024, in Emporia, KS. He was married 72 years to Nita Kay Brady Prophet. She survives along with their three children, seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.
He was offered the position of Assistant Professor of Biology at then Kansas State Teachers College, (now Emporia State University) in 1962 after earning his PhD from the University of Oklahoma. He remained at ESU until his retirement in 1996 as Chair of the Biology Department.
He best summed up his career by writing: “When I took the job I had no idea of how long I would stay, but every time another opportunity came around my decision was always to stay. My tenure (at ESU, beginning as a graduate teaching and research assistant) lasted for 39 years, most of which was exciting and enjoyable. I maintained an active research program in aquatic biology which earned me an invitation to present a paper at an International Symposium in Italy plus allowed me to participate in professional scientific meetings all over this continent. I also experienced a great deal of fun teaching and leading special field classes in desert ecology in Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico; marine biology in Texas and San Salvador Island; mountain biology in Colorado; and grassland ecology in Oklahoma and Kansas. Overall, every day was a new adventure. I would not exchange my years at Emporia State for all the tea in China. My wish for you is that you enjoy your life as much as I have enjoyed mine.”
The completion of the Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center (PAROC) was a great joy for him.
Memorial contributions to PAROC in care of the ESU Foundation in his name will further research and education for students for years to come.
Cremation was performed by Midwest Cremation in Topeka, KS. Family services are pending.
