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Dr. Ronald Lee Brodzinski
02/14/1941 — 10/31/2006
From Richland, WA, US | Born in North Liberty, Indiana
Dr. Ronald Lee Brodzinski
Dr. Ronald L. Brodzinski, a long-time PNNL staff member and friend to many, passed away unexpectedly October 31, 2006. Ron was a Laboratory Fellow in the Radiation Detection and Nuclear Sciences Group at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
Ron had been with the Lab nearly 40 years, and in that time made incredible technical contributions to the field of nuclear chemistry and physics. He served as a role model for many technical staff over the years and provided significant leadership on national and international projects.
Most recently, Ron was nominated for the Glenn T. Seaborg Award in Nuclear Chemistry for his outstanding achievement in science. Rons entire 40-year career has been spent developing radiological instrumentation, assay techniques, and applications thereof. He has developed and deployed numerous radiation detection devices in a variety of field. Many of the applications required development of specialized radiochemical separations or methods.
Dr. Brodzinski received his Ph.D. in Nuclear Chemistry from Purdue University in 1967 and immediately joined Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. In 1989 he attained the highest scientific level at PNNL, Laboratory Fellow. Ron is a long-time member of the American Chemical Society Division of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, and has been active in nuclear chemistry his entire career.
Dr. Brodzinski is a prolific contributor to the scientific literature, authoring or co-authoring over 192 peer-reviewed publications and 120 formal technical reports. Professor John Wilkerson of the University of Washington notes, I have often read and relied on a number of seminal papers published by Ron dealing with the subjects of characterizing and determining the radiopurity of metals.
Dr. Brodzinskis early work centered on the physical interactions of fast neutrons with critical construction materials in thermonuclear reactors.
Ron was a Principal Investigator for NASA during the Apollo missions to the Moon. He developed a unique calibration technique for the whole-body counter used in the Lunar Receiving Laboratory to measure cosmic ray-induced radioactivities in returning astronauts. He also developed separation and concentration techniques for radioisotopes in biological samples to measure the astronauts whole-body radiation dose received while in space. A second part of the NASA Apollo program studies was dedicated to measuring radon concentration in the Lunar atmosphere and its motion as Lunar wind.
Another novel measurement was reconstruction of the radiation dose delivered by the Hiroshima bomb during World War II.
Ron also developed a unique radiation detection tool that used scintillating glass drawn into optical fibers to detect neutrons in a variety of applications that take advantage of the physical conformity of the glass fibers. Rons greatest technical achievements are his developments for reducing backgrounds of radiation detection instruments to improve sensitivity, particularly for measuring double-beta decay. His 25-year search for neutrinoless double-beta decay in 76GE has resulted in background reductions of six orders of magnitude in high-resolution germanium gamma-ray spectrometers.
Ron also conceived and pioneered the use of pulse shape analysis and signal processing to identify source, type, and location of energy deposition events in germanium detectors. Rons detector advancements enabled him to make the first direct measurement of two-neutrino double-beta decay in 76GE, orders of magnitude longer than any previously measured radioisotope half-life. He also made the first direct measurement of the very rare two-neutrino double-beta decay of 100Mo.
Ron has, as Dr. Wilkerson remarked, devoted his career to exploring and addressing important problems in applied and fundamental science. He has demonstrated a passion for doing research and has established a record of excellence. Ron has been the recipient of both a Federal Laboratory Consortium Award for Excellence in Technology Transfer and an R&D 100 Award from R&D Magazine for his radiation detector developments. The winning of an R&D 100 Award provides a mark of excellence known to industry, government, and academia as proof that the product is one of the innovative ideas of the year.
Dr. Brodzinskis career of stellar science, development, and deployment in the field clearly illustrates his passion and excellence as a chemist.
Ron was a lifetime member of the Masonic Family including being a Senior DeMolay, past Worshipful Master, Past Grand Junior Deacon, 33 Degree, Inspector General Honorary Scottish Rite Mason, Member of the Royal Order of Scotland, and Member of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. His Masonic family provided him the opportunity to be altruistic for the childhood language disorder foundation. Rons personal life involved raising four children with his wife JoBelinda, Eric, Kirk, and Brett. Together they were involved in Little League Baseball, American League Softball, Miss America Softball, and AAU Swimming. He and the family became avid Tri-City Americans hockey fans, attending the games as a family, sharing with their friends Ned and Nancy Wogman and Rush and Donna Campbell. He was an avid hunter, and a lifetime member of the NRA. Ron will be remembered as a husband, father, grandfather, scientist, colleague, and friend. For the past 22 years, Ron and his family have run Seth Ryan Winery and have been involved with promoting the Columbia and Yakima Valley activities, most recently working to be involved with the development of the Red Mountain Estates Association. Ron and Jo have traveled the world together, enjoying fine wines, food and friendship.
Ron is survived by his wife Jo Brodzinski; daughter, Belinda McNabb Troy; son, Kirk Brodzinski; grandchildren, Amber Star McNabb, Erica Brodzinski, Sandra Downey, and Spencer Ryan Brodzinski. He was preceded in death by sons Frank Evan, Eric Vincent and Brett Ryan Brodzinski; parents Jean and Harry Brodzinski; grandson Walter Donald McNabb.
Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, November 4, 2006 at Faith Assembly Christian Center, 1800 N. Road 72, Pasco. A visitation and celebration of Rons life will be Friday the 3rd, 7:00-8:30 PM at Einans Funeral Home, Richland.
Memorial contributions may be made to Chaplaincy at Tri-Cities Hospice, 2108 W. Entiat, Kennewick, WA 99336; SEWSEDHH Deaf Center, 124 N. 4th Ave., Pasco, WA 99301; Oasis School, 1280 Lee Blvd., Richland, WA 99354; Academy of Childrens Theater; Richland Light Opera Company; or Richland Players.
Dear Jo and family,
When we saw Ron’s obituary this morning, we were, at first, hopeful that we were still asleep and just having a nightmare. On the other hand, we have known for some time that Ron, himself, had a true sense of perspective about life. This, we believe, was due, among other things, to a very close call with a large pancreatic tumor that, despite all odds, proved to be benign. We believe he understood just how uncertain life is. Every time we have seen him during the last few years and asked how he was doing, his reply was always, “Well, I got up on the right side of the sod this morning.” While there are a lot more things we could tell you about his attitude towards life, we believe that says it all. On the other hand, we can’t even begin to tell you how much we have loved and appreciated both of you from the first time we met you in 1967. And Jo, we called my brother Rick in LA, and he sends his love and condolences.
Dennis and Sue Sherrell
Jo and family:
Please accept my sincere condolences on your tragic loss. I know you have cherished all of your time together with Ron and had looked forward to many wonderful adventures ahead.
Ron has had such a tremendous impact on our work here in NSD – I know that for many years to come staff will be missing his mentoring, guidance, keen intuition, enthusiasm, candor, creativity, and especially his humor.
Please take care and know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Dawnelle Donovan-Copeman
Dear Jo and Family,
Debbie and I share your loss with our heartfelt sympathy. We were truly blessed to have had the chance to be friends with Ron,and he will live always in our hearts and serve as an inspiration to do good in life and strive to be better.
Love, Ron and Debbie
Thinking of you and your family.
What a wonderful gift Ron was to our community.
We are sorry to read about Belinda’s stepfather. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Sue and Ethel
Jo,
Ron was a great inspiration for me. I do not know the reason for his early death but my family share in your loss and wish you and your family the best in this time of sorrow. I will not be able to attend the service due to being in Germany. Ron was a brillant scientist and friend who is leaving behind many fond memories for so many of us and high respect for his contribution in science.
Jo – My prayers, thoughts and love are with you and your family at this time of great sorrow.
Dear Ron,
You are my teacher. When I was over my head in technical matters, you would invite into your office and tutor me. You could make me understand like no other. I am grateful for the time you spent at the whiteboard, explaining mathmatical formula, all the while installing confidence in me.
I remember, long before Starbucks, you introduced me to the fine art of brewing the near perfect cup of coffee. We would enjoy that cup of coffee while critiqueing the performance of the the Tri-City Americans previous game.
I will go to the Hockey games, look over at your seat and remember you and your loving family.
I will go, with a lump in my throat and you will be there.
Rest in Peace and Love, my Friend,
Rush Campbell
I remember fondly my evening near Lake Tahoe a few years ago with Ron and Jo. May God bless you in this difficult time.
Ron and I shared many good laughs over lawyer jokes. I’ll miss his wit and his wisdom.
Dear Jo and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sudden and devastating loss. I only knew Ron through working with you, Jo, on theater projects. But, he was always there for you and so supportive of your work in the arts community. Whether in your home, at the theater, or out in public somewhere, Ron always had a warm smile and cheery words. He will be missed greatly by many.
With my love and prayers,
Marsha Polk
Words cannot express our shock and deep feelings of loss when hearing of Ron’s passing. I always looked up to him as a mentor and friend who was never at a loss for words or opinions. I will certainly miss him both personally and professionally.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jo and the rest of the family. I am sorry I didn’t have the opportunity to repay him for the ice cream cone in Kona.
Ken
I pray that you can endure these days of loss and are able to arrive at a place of peace and understanding. Ron will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ron was a shining star in this world – one of the “white hats.” He was remarkable at every level of his existence, from the personal, day-to-day interactions to the global scale of contributions to science and technology. He had a twinkle in his eye, creative spark in his mind, and a fire in his soul, that he warmed everyone around him by sharing. I’m sure no one who ever met Ron could forget him, and we will all miss him terribly. My deepest condolences and prayers are with Ron’s family, friends, co-workers and associates.
Dear Family and friends,
I did not personally know Dr.Brodzinski but I am a long time personal friend of the Wogman family. My name is April Christian. I would like to comment on what an incredible person Dr. Brodzinski is and let his family know he has touched so many hearts and souls and made everyone’s quality of life so much better. Including those who did not know him, due to his worldly projects! :- I am so sorry for those, of you, who are so missing Dr. Brodzinski now but may his incredible spirit and memories live on in all of your hearts and just know you have the best Guardian Angel looking out for you all now. What an incredible Gentleman and angel. Much love and blessed thoughts to all.
April Christian-Debra Wogmans best friend.
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Jo and the rest of the Brodzinski family. I have known Ron and Jo since 1986, when he and Khris Olsen were making wine in the Olsens garage. Because of Ron, I began making wine in my basement. My wine was pretty bad, but Ron was always very kind to me and would always take the time out to answer my silly questions about wine making. He was also kind enough to let me come by Seth Ryan Winery to help crush the grapes and support the barrel tastings. In effect, he let me be a groupie around the winery. He was great to work with and his passion for what he was doing was contagious. He always made everyone feel welcome and valued. I feel lucky to have been touched by him and to have known him. He has been a positive influence in my life. I guess that is one of the best compliments that someone can receive, that is, they made a difference and influenced others in a positive way. A part of Rons soul is with me. I will miss him and his great humor and knowledge.
With the deepest sorrow and respect, Gene Whelan
Jo –
I enjoyed working with Ron at PNNL and, most recently, enjoyed the time I spent at your winery with a group of science writers from Seattle.
In my mind, Ron was a rare breed. He was extremely intelligent, and social – a combination that isn’t always easy to find.
Please know that you’re in my family’s thoughts and prayers.
Andrea Turner
To Jo and the family:
My prayers are with you and your family.
To Jo and Family,
Having known Ron for many years at work I too was stunned by his sudden passing. Please accept my condolences. His profound knowledge, ever present willingness to help, and quick wit will truly be missed.
Iral
To Jo and Family:
We send our heartfelt condolences.
Ron was a respected colleague and a unique character. His presence always added to any event – professional or social. He was never shy to express what he felt and in many cases shared real wisdom, always in his own unique way. He will be greatly missed by all those who had the opportunity and privilege to know him.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Leonard and Janet Bond
Dearest Jo and family
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sudden loss.
I remember performing for Ron’s installation at the Masonic Lodge. You could not have been more proud.
Not only was he a man of many accomplishments, but his devotion to you and his family was very evident that evening.
May God surround you with all that you need – sustained by family and close friends, wonderful memories of your life with Ron, and the gradually opening vision of your life to come.
As you know, the pain and loss do not quickly go away. But my experience has shown me that it does dim.
And of course, if there is anything I can do to help you in any way, I would be honored to be of assistance.
Affectionately Yours
Jeffrey Gilmore
We share in the sorrow at the loss of Ron, and our condolences and prayers go out to the Brodzinski family. Ron was a jewel in the crown of Science, whose contributions will stand the test of time. So too was he a contributor to our greater Tri-Cities community in many ways, and a wonderful neighbor as well. Jo, even though we cannot be physically present at the celebration of life because of prior commitments, we will be there in spirit and will retain many pleasant memories of our friend Ron.
Jo and family
We share your loss deeply; you all are family. This week has been spent thinking of you and trying to fathom our loss of Ron. I have many stories starting with meeting Ron in September of 1961 when he was a senior at Purdue and was working on the development of miniature mass spectrometers — my guess is that no one knows he started his science career that way. I am so thankful that he and I were able to hunt this fall. More memories to come.
Love, Ned and Nancy
–>Jo and family – It was with great shock to read of Ron’s passing. We have appreciated the efforts of Ron technically and the relationships built over the years of experience with both of you supporting in Hawaii. Great times to remember and cherish. Jo, please know that I, Gary, very much respected Ron’s ability and enjoyed his camaraderie and support in many venues together. We both will miss Ron. Please know that his life is to be celebrated. Blessings from the far side of the third rock from the Sun. Gary and Kris Troyer http://www.kandg.org
We are shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Ron. I shall always remember him as an awesome person and a good friend, as well as a scientist of high order. My wife Theresa worked with Jo on many theatrical productions in past years. And yes, his wine was fabulous!. We extend our deepest sympathies to all the Brodzinski family.
Charles Lo Presti
I was shocked to learn of Ron’s passing. He was a classmate of mine. We so much enjoyed traveling to Yakima and the tour of the winery a few years ago. My sincere condolences to his family.
Dear Jo and family,
When we saw Ron’s obituary this morning, we were, at first, hopeful that we were still asleep and just having a nightmare. On the other hand, we have known for some time that Ron, himself, had a true sense of perspective about life. This, we believe, was due, among other things, to a very close call with a large pancreatic tumor that, despite all odds, proved to be benign. We believe he understood just how uncertain life is. Every time we have seen him during the last few years and asked how he was doing, his reply was always, “Well, I got up on the right side of the sod this morning.” While there are a lot more things we could tell you about his attitude towards life, we believe that says it all. On the other hand, we can’t even begin to tell you how much we have loved and appreciated both of you from the first time we met you in 1967. And Jo, we called my brother Rick in LA, and he sends his love and condolences.
Dennis and Sue Sherrell
Jo and family:
Please accept my sincere condolences on your tragic loss. I know you have cherished all of your time together with Ron and had looked forward to many wonderful adventures ahead.
Ron has had such a tremendous impact on our work here in NSD – I know that for many years to come staff will be missing his mentoring, guidance, keen intuition, enthusiasm, candor, creativity, and especially his humor.
Please take care and know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Dawnelle Donovan-Copeman
Dear Jo and Family,
Debbie and I share your loss with our heartfelt sympathy. We were truly blessed to have had the chance to be friends with Ron,and he will live always in our hearts and serve as an inspiration to do good in life and strive to be better.
Love, Ron and Debbie
Thinking of you and your family.
What a wonderful gift Ron was to our community.
We are sorry to read about Belinda’s stepfather. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Sue and Ethel
Jo,
Ron was a great inspiration for me. I do not know the reason for his early death but my family share in your loss and wish you and your family the best in this time of sorrow. I will not be able to attend the service due to being in Germany. Ron was a brillant scientist and friend who is leaving behind many fond memories for so many of us and high respect for his contribution in science.
Jo – My prayers, thoughts and love are with you and your family at this time of great sorrow.
Dear Ron,
You are my teacher. When I was over my head in technical matters, you would invite into your office and tutor me. You could make me understand like no other. I am grateful for the time you spent at the whiteboard, explaining mathmatical formula, all the while installing confidence in me.
I remember, long before Starbucks, you introduced me to the fine art of brewing the near perfect cup of coffee. We would enjoy that cup of coffee while critiqueing the performance of the the Tri-City Americans previous game.
I will go to the Hockey games, look over at your seat and remember you and your loving family.
I will go, with a lump in my throat and you will be there.
Rest in Peace and Love, my Friend,
Rush Campbell
I remember fondly my evening near Lake Tahoe a few years ago with Ron and Jo. May God bless you in this difficult time.
Ron and I shared many good laughs over lawyer jokes. I’ll miss his wit and his wisdom.
Dear Jo and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sudden and devastating loss. I only knew Ron through working with you, Jo, on theater projects. But, he was always there for you and so supportive of your work in the arts community. Whether in your home, at the theater, or out in public somewhere, Ron always had a warm smile and cheery words. He will be missed greatly by many.
With my love and prayers,
Marsha Polk
Words cannot express our shock and deep feelings of loss when hearing of Ron’s passing. I always looked up to him as a mentor and friend who was never at a loss for words or opinions. I will certainly miss him both personally and professionally.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jo and the rest of the family. I am sorry I didn’t have the opportunity to repay him for the ice cream cone in Kona.
Ken
I pray that you can endure these days of loss and are able to arrive at a place of peace and understanding. Ron will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ron was a shining star in this world – one of the “white hats.” He was remarkable at every level of his existence, from the personal, day-to-day interactions to the global scale of contributions to science and technology. He had a twinkle in his eye, creative spark in his mind, and a fire in his soul, that he warmed everyone around him by sharing. I’m sure no one who ever met Ron could forget him, and we will all miss him terribly. My deepest condolences and prayers are with Ron’s family, friends, co-workers and associates.
Dear Family and friends,
I did not personally know Dr.Brodzinski but I am a long time personal friend of the Wogman family. My name is April Christian. I would like to comment on what an incredible person Dr. Brodzinski is and let his family know he has touched so many hearts and souls and made everyone’s quality of life so much better. Including those who did not know him, due to his worldly projects! :- I am so sorry for those, of you, who are so missing Dr. Brodzinski now but may his incredible spirit and memories live on in all of your hearts and just know you have the best Guardian Angel looking out for you all now. What an incredible Gentleman and angel. Much love and blessed thoughts to all.
April Christian-Debra Wogmans best friend.
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Jo and the rest of the Brodzinski family. I have known Ron and Jo since 1986, when he and Khris Olsen were making wine in the Olsens garage. Because of Ron, I began making wine in my basement. My wine was pretty bad, but Ron was always very kind to me and would always take the time out to answer my silly questions about wine making. He was also kind enough to let me come by Seth Ryan Winery to help crush the grapes and support the barrel tastings. In effect, he let me be a groupie around the winery. He was great to work with and his passion for what he was doing was contagious. He always made everyone feel welcome and valued. I feel lucky to have been touched by him and to have known him. He has been a positive influence in my life. I guess that is one of the best compliments that someone can receive, that is, they made a difference and influenced others in a positive way. A part of Rons soul is with me. I will miss him and his great humor and knowledge.
With the deepest sorrow and respect, Gene Whelan
Jo –
I enjoyed working with Ron at PNNL and, most recently, enjoyed the time I spent at your winery with a group of science writers from Seattle.
In my mind, Ron was a rare breed. He was extremely intelligent, and social – a combination that isn’t always easy to find.
Please know that you’re in my family’s thoughts and prayers.
Andrea Turner
To Jo and the family:
My prayers are with you and your family.
To Jo and Family,
Having known Ron for many years at work I too was stunned by his sudden passing. Please accept my condolences. His profound knowledge, ever present willingness to help, and quick wit will truly be missed.
Iral
To Jo and Family:
We send our heartfelt condolences.
Ron was a respected colleague and a unique character. His presence always added to any event – professional or social. He was never shy to express what he felt and in many cases shared real wisdom, always in his own unique way. He will be greatly missed by all those who had the opportunity and privilege to know him.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Leonard and Janet Bond
Dearest Jo and family
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sudden loss.
I remember performing for Ron’s installation at the Masonic Lodge. You could not have been more proud.
Not only was he a man of many accomplishments, but his devotion to you and his family was very evident that evening.
May God surround you with all that you need – sustained by family and close friends, wonderful memories of your life with Ron, and the gradually opening vision of your life to come.
As you know, the pain and loss do not quickly go away. But my experience has shown me that it does dim.
And of course, if there is anything I can do to help you in any way, I would be honored to be of assistance.
Affectionately Yours
Jeffrey Gilmore
We share in the sorrow at the loss of Ron, and our condolences and prayers go out to the Brodzinski family. Ron was a jewel in the crown of Science, whose contributions will stand the test of time. So too was he a contributor to our greater Tri-Cities community in many ways, and a wonderful neighbor as well. Jo, even though we cannot be physically present at the celebration of life because of prior commitments, we will be there in spirit and will retain many pleasant memories of our friend Ron.
Jo and family
We share your loss deeply; you all are family. This week has been spent thinking of you and trying to fathom our loss of Ron. I have many stories starting with meeting Ron in September of 1961 when he was a senior at Purdue and was working on the development of miniature mass spectrometers — my guess is that no one knows he started his science career that way. I am so thankful that he and I were able to hunt this fall. More memories to come.
Love, Ned and Nancy
–>Jo and family – It was with great shock to read of Ron’s passing. We have appreciated the efforts of Ron technically and the relationships built over the years of experience with both of you supporting in Hawaii. Great times to remember and cherish. Jo, please know that I, Gary, very much respected Ron’s ability and enjoyed his camaraderie and support in many venues together. We both will miss Ron. Please know that his life is to be celebrated. Blessings from the far side of the third rock from the Sun. Gary and Kris Troyer http://www.kandg.org
We are shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Ron. I shall always remember him as an awesome person and a good friend, as well as a scientist of high order. My wife Theresa worked with Jo on many theatrical productions in past years. And yes, his wine was fabulous!. We extend our deepest sympathies to all the Brodzinski family.
Charles Lo Presti
I was shocked to learn of Ron’s passing. He was a classmate of mine. We so much enjoyed traveling to Yakima and the tour of the winery a few years ago. My sincere condolences to his family.
Jo,
Just wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts and prayers and we love you.
Dear Family of Ron: It was a shock to hear of Ron’s passing. He was a wonderful person and I extend my sympathy to all of his family.
Dear Jo and family,
I don’t know how to tell you how deeply saddened I am for your loss. You have always been such a caring family and wonderful people to know. You are in my thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.
To Jo and the family,
I wish I were their to give my support. You guys are very special to me and I miss all of you. I am so sorry for your loss, Ron was an exceptional man and is dearly missed.
I love you guys,
Catherine
I am so sorry for your lose. I was a lab tech and worked with Ron, Ned and the gang some 30 years ago. Ron was a great guy and probably the smartest guy I knew. I will always remember him fondly.
We won’t see someone like Ron again, we just don’t make them like that anymore.
My condolences to Jo and the family.
Jo, Ron’s passing was a huge loss to everyone who ever had contact with him.
I have never met a person with his incredible intelligence & still related to everyone he was associated with.
He will be long remembered & greatly missed.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
Guestbook for
Dr. Ronald Lee Brodzinski