Lexi Riley
Staff Writer
Clayton Geib ’18 occupied a revered place in the hearts of many on campus, rendering his sudden passing on Sun., Sept. 18 a shock. Classmates admired Clayton for his tenacity both on the field and in the classroom. He was known for his intelligence, kindness, warmth and the determination with which he approached his life.
“Clayton was really passionate about everything he did. His enthusiasm was contagious,” described Zane Thornburg ’18. Many friends also touted Clayton’s success in the classroom, describing him as the smartest person they had ever met. He was the top organic chemistry student his sophomore year and earned academic honor roll. Clayton just recently applied to graduate school and aspired to teach and research at a university. Renowned for the brightness and excitement with which he talked, many characterized Clayton as one of the most admired people on campus.
“One of my favorite memories was during spring ball when we would talk about organic chemistry at 6 a.m. I always looked forward to our conversations,” Russell Boston ’19 fondly recalled. Clayton possessed a contagious interest in everything he learned and the ability to passionately discuss any topic, as well as an affinity for the music of Led Zeppelin and an enthusiasm for what teammate Patrick Mohorcic ’18 laughingly termed “dancing ridiculously.”
Not only was Clayton incredibly successful academically, he also dominated the football field as an all-NCAC offensive lineman. “[He] worked hard everyday to become a three-year starter on the offensive line. He and I played next to each other for three years, and he improved everyday. He was a driven athlete who always strived to be his best self for the team,” said Mohorcic ’18.
Clayton not only impressed his teammates with his hard work, but his coaches also spoke very highly of his success. “He wanted to know what he could do to be better. [He] worked hard to be the best athlete he could be and led by example. He always seemed happy to be around the team, whether in meetings, lifting, practice or games,” noted Assistant Coach (Offensive Line) Brian Kooser.
Clayton positively impacted and changed the lives of many of his friends. “He was a strong kid in the sense that he made sure he was who he wanted to be. I hope he knew how important he was to the football team and the Wooster community,” expressed Cyrus Boardman ’19.
In describing him, teammates and friends emphasized the way Clayton would do his best to include everyone and his genuine, caring personality.
“He was a really sweet and caring guy all around,” Jack Marousek ’18 said.
Clayton’s open and compassionate personality resonated throughout the Wooster community. “He always had a smile on his face and tried to do the right thing,” shared Matthew Hartzell ’19.
Teammates and friends seized the opportunity to honor Clayton’s memory at a ribbon making event on Monday night. Friends gathered to lovingly construct over 1,000 ribbons with Clayton’s football jersey number, 72, written on them.
“We had a good showing with such a large group here to commemorate and honor everything he did. I can only ask that the community comes together and helps each other through this difficult time,” said Maggie Sestito ’18, president of the Student Government Association, which organized the event. The ribbons will be available to tie onto shoes, backpacks and clothing to help unite the Wooster community in honoring Clayton’s memory.
Everyone who enjoyed the experience of meeting or knowing Clayton will miss his passion on the football field, excitement over organic chemistry, engaging smile and the way he went above and beyond to be considerate of everyone. Clayton’s passing came too soon, but his influence will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.