Roy F. Weston dies at 96

Roy F. Weston, founder of the environmental engineering firm Weston Solutions Inc., of West Chester, and a long-time advocate of sustainable development, died Saturday at his home in Newtown Square, the company said today. He was 96.

Mr. Weston had served as chairman and chief executive of Weston Solutions for 35 years, until his retirement in 1991.

During his long career, Mr. Weston earned accolades that included: National Engineer of the Year (1973) by the National Society of Professional Engineers; Election to National Academy of Engineering in 1976; Entrepreneur of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award (1990) by Ernst and Young Inc. and Merrill Lynch; American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Lawrence K. Cecil Award in 1993; and the Technology Council of Greater Philadelphia's Legend CEO Award in 1994.

He earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from University of Wisconsin, a master's degree from New York University, and a honorary doctorates from the University of Wisconsi and from Drexel University.

An advocate and supporter of environmental education, Mr. Weston, with his wife Madeleen, donated funds to establish the Roy F. Weston Center for Sustainability. Donations by Mr. Weston also support research and laboratory facilities at Drexel University.