Walter A. Scott

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University of Miami University of Wisconsin California Institute of Technology

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Walter Scott Obituary

SCOTT, Dr. Walter A., University of Miami Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular biology, died on Monday, January 28, at age 69. He was born February 1, 1943 in Los Angeles, Ca. to Vera and Russell Scott. He was raised in Baker City, Oregon, earned degrees from California Institute of Technology and University of Wisconsin. He married Gwendolyn B. Fisher in August 1970 and joined the University of Miami faculty in 1975. Dr. Scott was nationally known for his contribution to understanding the biochemical mechanism for HIV resistance to AZT. He is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn B. Scott, sister, Nancy Koroloff of Portland, Oregon and brothers Jerry (Odette) and Gene (Purita) Scott of Seattle, Washington. Viewing will be held Sunday, February 3, 2:00-6:00 at VAN ORSDEL CORAL GABLES CHAPEL, 4600 S.W. 8th Street. A memorial service will be held at 3:30, Monday, February 4 at Schoninger Research Quadrangle, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Memorial contributions may be made to the Dr. Walter A. Scott Biochemistry Endowment Fund at University of Miami, PO Box 016960 (R-100), Miami, FL 33101.

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Published by Miami Herald on Feb. 2, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Walter Scott

4 Entries

John & Ellen Barrett

February 4, 2013

From John Barrett:
I remember being so surprised when I first met Walter. I thought that since he was a Caltech graduate he would not want much to do with me. But in a few seconds I was greeted by his smile and lack of any snobbishness. He was among the first to enter the realm of molecular engineering and DNA constructs, and never tired of patiently explaining his work in this area. Later, when he was the head of the committee for safety when dealing with these constructs, I brought some wild scheme to him. I expected to be thrown out, but was surprised by his thoughtful encouragement. Science and the world certainly need more people like Walter. We will all miss him and carry him with us in our thoughts and spirits. When I think about honesty in science, I will always think about him. He was always concerned about the science in a deeply enthusiastic and clever way and never about personal aggrandizement.
From Ellen Barrett:
Back in the days when Biochemistry and Physiology shared the 5th floor of the Rosensteil Medical Science Building, my office was across the hall from Walter's lab. I remember his cheerful whistling and his kindness. He encouraged us to have our older daughter apply to Caltech (which had just stopped being male-only), and she benefitted greatly from her time there, especially from the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program.
John and I really relate to Walter and Gwen as long-time spouses as well as scientific colleagues. We are privileged to have known Walter, and thank Gwen for contributing so much to his joy in life.

Ira, Susan Jacobson

February 3, 2013

Ira and Susan Jacobson send condolences. Scott and Gwen were old friends of my brother Eric since U. of Wisconsin days.

Mike and Judy Brown

February 2, 2013

Walter was a consummate scientist as well as a great mentor. He was someone you would like to share a beer with as we did on multiple occasions. His calm demeanor and great enthusiasm for discovery made him a natural for being a great teacher. I was lucky enough to be in Walter's lab and trained with him. His infectious laugh and love of life will be missed by all who knew and loved him. His untimely loss is a shock and great loss for all of his past and current students, not to mention those who will never have the chance to be guided by his expert example. Judy and I met in his lab and have been married for 24 years and have 2 wonderful children. We occasionally saw Walter and Gwen at Pinecrest Gardens and it reminded us of the good times we had in his lab. Our hearts go out to Gwen and his family for their great loss. Walter will be missed.

Michael Brown

February 2, 2013

Walter was a consummate scientist but more than that he was a great friend to all those lucky enough to have worked with or been mentored by him. His patience, intelligence and overall good nature made working with him a real pleasure. Judy and I met in his lab and have been married for 24 years now and have two beautiful children. We occasionally saw Walter and Gwen at Pinecrest Gardens on weekends and it brought back memories of the good times we had in his lab. I feel sorry for all the future students who won't be able to benefit from his guidance and experience. Walter was taken far too early. Everyone who knew and loved him will forever have a an empty place in their hearts grieving his loss. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Gwen and his family. Walter made a tremendous difference in many people's lives and he will be missed.

Mike and Judy Brown

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