Richard G. Gardner, PhD

Richard G. Gardner, Ph.D. of Seattle, Washington, passed away unexpectedly at home June 28, 2023. Richard is survived by his mother Rosemary, sisters Cheryl and Kimberly, and nieces/nephews: Jacqueline, Laurie, and William.

He was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania on October 14, 1968. Richard graduated Bucks County Community College in 1990 with a scholarship to Cornell University, where he later graduated with a BA in Chemistry in 1992 and was a research technician there until 1995. Richard moved cross-country when he transferred to UC San Diego to receive his Ph.D. in Biology in 2000. He did his postdoctoral Fellowship at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center until 2006. He was then hired by University of Washington as an assistant Professor, then later was promoted to Associate Professor. His career in teaching culminated when he became Co-director of the Molecular & Cellular Biology Graduate Program and then Tenured Professor in 2019 where he ran Gardnerlab.org.

Richard, who loved catching eels and crickets, listening to Iron Maiden, and reading Conan novels, was a sensitive little boy who adored the natural world and all things science. He had an artistic side and loved drawing things from nature when he wasn't outside in the midst of it. Gaining and sharing knowledge was a passion that blossomed in Richard as he grew older. Over the length of his career, he authored many scientific papers and was well respected in the field of Biochemistry. He was a brilliant person, generous with his gifts, and teaching meant everything to him. To Quote Richard when asked why he loved science, he said, "I love the moment of discovery! When you actually discover something new and realize that 'Eureka' moment when no one else knows what you have just found." Richard also enjoyed cooking, a passion he discovered while working as a short order cook to put himself through college. Once retired from teaching, he hoped to open a Philly Food restaurant in Seattle.

Richard's body was laid to rest in the sea near his home in Seattle. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of a funeral, the family would appreciate donations be made to Shatterproof.org or another addiction support and treatment organization of your choice.