William "Bill" Brindley passed away on 12 November 2025 from complications of Parkinson's disease. He was born on 18 February 1938 in Moscow, Idaho, to Tom and Laverna Brindley. When Bill was 12, his family moved to Iowa, where his parents were originally from, and settled in Ames.
Following in his father's footsteps, Bill became an entomologist, specializing in toxicology. While studying at Iowa State University (ISU), he attended a student dance where participants were matched by computer with three "dates". His second match was Vivian McCollom, a secretary in the Department of Horticulture. Their friendship blossomed and they were soon married in the Collegiate Methodist Church of Ames. Bill always said Vivian was the best thing that ever happened to him.
In 1966, Bill and Vivian moved to Logan, Utah, where Bill joined the Biology Department at Utah State University. For more than 40 years, he taught, mentored, and inspired students from around the world. His research focused on understanding how insects develop resistance to pesticides, contributing to safer and more sustainable agricultural practices. He was a dedicated teacher who poured his heart into his classes- whether teaching Insect Physiology & Internal Anatomy, Insecticide Toxicology, or Pesticide Resistance for agriculture students. Later in his career, his teaching included the general education courses, Biology & the Citizen, and Evolution, sharing his love of science with students of all backgrounds. Bill continued to engage with USU after retirement. He and Vivian were enjoying their term as Presidents of the USU Emeriti Alumni Association at the time of Vivian's passing in 2014.
Aside from all things insects - Bill enjoyed "digging in the yard", painting, listening to opera, and cooking with the experimental flair of a scientist. He was known for his quirky sense of humor, for making up silly songs on the spot, and for being an exceptional whistler. As a Captain in the Army Reserve, he served as commander of the 854th Supply and Service Company of Fort Douglas, Utah and was a dedicated member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served as a Deacon for many years.
He is survived by his brother, Tom (Karen) Brindley of Alpena, MI; his beloved children, Mark (Shauna) Brindley of Smithfield, UT, Mary (Darren) Coffman of Beaverton, OR, Marla (Ross) Trowbridge of Trenton, UT, and Maia (Magnus) Nilsson of Malmo, Sweden; grandchildren, Corey (Amanda), Mataya (Jordan), Abby, Nathan, Vivian, Katherine, Elsa and Scarlett; and six great-grandchildren. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian, and his sister, Carol.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Rock Steady Boxing Logan, Maple Springs and Aegis Hospice for their exceptional care and kindness.
Friends and loved ones are invited to gather at 10:30 AM on Saturday, 22 November, at the First Presbyterian Church (2nd West and Center, Logan, Utah) for a memorial service, followed by a reception in the church's Westminster Hall. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to Utah State University, the First Presbyterian Church of Logan, or a memorial forest through The Trees Remember.
Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at
www.allenmortuaries.com.
Published by Logan Herald Journal on Nov. 18, 2025.