Gordon W. Newell

Gordon Wilfred Newell passed peacefully on Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Gordon Wilfred Newell, a 50-year resident of Palo Alto, passed peacefully in his home with family on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at 90 years of age.

He was born and raised in Madison, Wis., where he received his entire academic education, capped by a PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin. His name is inscribed on the Wall of Distinction in the Biochemistry Building.

He was a Life Science researcher at Stanford Research Institute for over 25 years, followed by a career at the National Academy of Science in Washington D.C. He continued his career as an expert toxicology consultant well into his 80s.

He was an avid fly fisherman and wine connoisseur who once picked grapes with famed winemaker Martin Rey. He loved music including jazz, classical, dancing and singing with the Forum Community Chorus. He was a Palo Alto community leader who helped to pass the local construction bond to create Gunn High School.

He was known for his scientific and community intellect serving on numerous professional and community boards and commissions both locally and worldwide. A renowned scientist, he was recognized for having the longest years of service with the International Society of Toxicologists.

He was a generous man who welcomed both people from around the world and down the street into his home where there was always a place at the table. A world traveler both professionally, and in leisure, he provided scientific professional services to countries in Africa, Europe and Asia.

He was married to Rosemary for 58 years before she preceded him in death in 2006. He is survived by his two sons and two daughters, and spouses, Bill Newell and Roberta Roth of Redwood City; Allan and Gayle Newell of Irvine; Nancy and Jeff Thompson of Granite Bay; and Betsy and Albert Cuisinot of Menlo Park; grandchildren, Chris, Katie, Danielle, Traci, Paul, David, Bennett, Jacque and Nicholas.