With deep sorrow the family of Dr. Rakesh Kumar Gupta announce his peaceful passing, at home, Thursday, May 22, 2026. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and professor, he was surrounded by his loving wife and two daughters, who meant the world to him.
Dr. Gupta was born October 1, 1954, in Gangoh, India (Saharanpur district), to the late Sh. Sumer Chand Gupta and Smt. Kiran Gupta. He was the middle of three sons and grew up in New Delhi, India. As a child, he enjoyed spending time reading, traveling, and studying languages.
He graduated from the prestigious IIT Kanpur with a B.Tech. in Chemical Engineering before earning his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at the University of Delaware.
He then began his teaching career at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he taught for 11 years. He worked briefly for the Monsanto, DuPont, and Braskem companies. He moved to Morgantown in 1992 as the George and Carolyn Berry Chair Professor of Chemical Engineering at West Virginia University. During his tenure at WVU, he also spent nine years as Department Chair. His research was directed toward the understanding of Polymer Rheology, which he accomplished through contributions to numerous research publications, conference presentations, and authorship of multiple books.
Over a remarkable career dedicated to teaching and research, he mentored countless students and colleagues. He was deeply passionate about education, scientific discovery, and advancing knowledge. Even at the time of his passing, he remained actively engaged in teaching, research, and grant-funded work — a testament to his enduring curiosity, commitment, and love for his profession. In fact, he had a planned sabbatical this August to write volume two of his recently published book, Polymer and Food Rheology.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Gupta was most proud of the fact that both of his daughters not only studied engineering (one of whom he taught in his own class), but also went on to become physicians. Truly, his greatest joy came from his family, which was clearly displayed in the dedication of his latest book to his daughters and grandsons. He treasured his trips to visit his grandsons, his pride and joy, whom he affectionately called his M&M’s, or mischief mongers.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Gunjan Gupta, with whom he shared 42 years of marriage; his daughters, Deepti Gupta Singhvi and Neha Gupta; his sons-in-law, Ajay Singhvi and Rohit Subash Nair; and his cherished grandsons, Shreyas and Aadav Singhvi.
He will be remembered for his wisdom, dedication, generosity, radiant smile, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. His legacy lives on through his family, his students, his colleagues, and the many lives he touched through teaching, mentorship, and friendship.
Family and friends gathered Monday, May 25, in the McCulla Funeral Home. The priest performed Puja and cremation followed the services.
Condolences may be extended to the family at www.mcculla.com
