James L. Bischoff

1940 - 2021

James L. Bischoff
March 20, 1940 -February 18, 2021
Aptos
James Louden Bischoff, devoted husband, loving father, doting grandfather, and world-renown geochemist passed away February 18, 2021 surrounded by family in Aptos, California. He was born in Los Angeles on March 20, 1940 to Joseph Lester and Evelyn Claire Bischoff. With a degree in Geology from Occidental College, Jim went on to earn a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley. It was while at Berkeley that he met and married the love of his life, Mary Lysbeth Cochran. After a Post Doctoral Fellowship at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, he became a professor at the University of Southern California before landing his dream job as a scientist with the United States Geological Survey. His career exploits were recognized the world over, covering such topics as geochemistry of seawater as well as lakes and lake deposits, seafloor geothermal systems, hydrothermal ore deposits, chemistry of supercritical fluids, climate change in the western US, and the dating of archaeological deposits. His work culminated in the prestigious V. M. Goldschmidt Award. In retirement he devoted his time to helping children to improve their reading skills, as well as serving in his local church. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, his daughter Lorena Russo, son Matthew, and four grandchildren. He will be sorely missed by many, but we are comforted in the knowledge that he is with his Savior now. Services will be held on Saturday April 17 at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Palo Alto.


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