Alan Hunt

Alan Hunt passed away October 28, 2012 surrounded by loving family age 49, after a long brave battle against cancer. Alan had an extremely rare form of appendix cancer. As Alan described it, “No common cancers for me, thank you.” Alan grew up in Seattle, enjoying the beautiful Washington outdoors hiking, biking and sitting around the campfire with friends. Alan received a BA at UC San Diego in Biochemistry and Cell Biology. As part of ski team there he was famous for once saying “watch this” before fearlessly charging one of the most expert narrow rock surrounded cornices at Mammoth Mountain, resulting in the most glorious wipe out on the mountain that day. Once he finally came to a stop he cheerfully said “thought I landed it well, but my ski popped off.” Alan applied that fearless determination with intelligence and integrity to obtain a PhD in Biophysics at University of Washington, did postdoctoral work at University of Colorado in Boulder and then a long successful career as Professor in Biomedical Engineering at University of Michigan. He used nanotechnology to study everything from basic understanding of the cell, to cancer medications and even developing laser treatment for presbyopia, the condition currently causing most Americans to need reading glasses beginning in their 40s. He leaves a legacy of the bright and capable students he has mentored. Alan will be remembered for his love of talk and story with friends, especially of economics, science and politics which he delivered with intelligence and humor. He had a passion for discovery and knowledge which he found in nature, science and travel. Beloved husband of Karen for 23 years, and daughters Sarah and Deanna. Dear brother to Bob, Susan, and Steve. Loving son of Buz and Mary Lou Hunt. A Memorial Celebration of his life will be held at University of Michigan on December 1. Contributions in memory of Dr. Hunt can be made toward a memorial annual lecture at U of M at giving.umich.edu/AlanHunt. For more information about Alan and Memorial please register as a guest for teamalan at www.caringbridge.org.