Aug. 25, 2011 | WMU News
Fillingham, of Portage, Mich., joined the faculty in 1964 and retired in 1986 as an associate professor of engineering technology. He initially taught industrial arts at WMU's Campus Training School and later its University High School, both of which prepared college students to become teachers while providing direct instruction to local elementary and secondary students.
In 1966, Fillingham was appointed to the faculty of the Department of Industrial Technology and Education and subsequently directed WMU's industrial arts program as well as researched new courses, methods and materials for the program.
He served as faculty advisor to the University's chapter of the International Technology Education Association and was a member of the Michigan Industrial Education Society, American Industrial Arts Association, National Association of Industrial Technology and Epsilon Pi Tau.
Fillingham began his teaching career at Grand Rapids (Mich.) Central High School, where he taught from 1952 to 1961 and coached baseball. He also served for two years as coordinator for cooperative education at Norwich (N.Y.) Senior High School.
After serving with the U.S. Army during World War II, Fillingham moved to Kalamazoo and attended WMU on the GI Bill. He went on to earn a bachelor's and master's degree from WMU in 1951 and 1952, respectively.
During retirement, Fillingham was actively involved locally with Meals on Wheels, the Peer Prevention Players, the Portage Senior Center and Therapeutic Humor.
A private memorial service with military honors was planned for Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial donations may be directed to a charity of choice. Arrangements were made by the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave.
Visit langelands.com to make a memorial guestbook entry.
