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Michael Barnoski Obituary
Michael had a prolific career, beginning with 10 years at Hughes Research Laboratories in Malibu, where he became a pioneer in the field of fiber optics. In 1976, he invented the optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) that detects breaks in fiber optical cables. This instrument is still widely used throughout the world today. For this and his extensive contribution to the field of fiber optics, he in 1988 was the second international recipient of the Tyndall Award, the highest award in optical fiber communications.
In 1980, he created a world-class research laboratory at TRW, and in 1984 founded PlessCor Optronics (PCO), an integrated electrical-optical interface supplier, financed by investments from Corning Inc., Plessey, Plc. and IBM. In 2002, he founded nanoPrecision Products, Inc., the world leader in ultra-precision 3D stamping with nanometer tolerances and accuracies.
Michael also taught at UCSB in the summers for 20 years, wrote and edited three books, received over 60 patents awards, wrote and published 65 technical papers, traveled the world as guest lecturer, and did consulting.
He received his BS in Electrical Engineering at the University of Dayton and his master's and Ph.D. Degrees in Electrical Engineering with majors in Microwave Electronics and Applied Physics, respectively, at Cornell University.
A lifelong devout Catholic, he supported numerous Catholic and philanthropic causes and was founder of the West LA Chapter of Legatus, a Catholic CEO organization.
He is survived by his loving wife Barbara of 60 years, his son Kenneth Barnoski (Paulette), his daughter Laura Nobles (Charles), granddaughters Audrey and Genevieve Richester (Linonn), great-grandchildren Ophelia and Theo, and step granddaughter Elizabeth.
A funeral mass will take place at St. Monica's Catholic Community in Santa Monica on April 15 at 4 pm. This service will be livestreamed so that family, friends and colleagues around the world can participate and honor his rich and vibrant life.
In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation, please consider: St Monica's Catholic Community, 725 California Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90403 and/or FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), [email protected] or P.O. Box 17408, Denver, CO 89217.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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