Richard Cross, PhD

Richard Cross, PhD, of Syracuse, NY, passed away peacefully at Upstate University on Saturday, February 7.

Rich was born in Hoboken, NJ. He then moved to Rochester, NY, and graduated from Greece High School. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Hartwick College in Chemistry while also distinguishing himself on the wrestling team.

Following this, Rich completed a PhD in Chemistry at Yale University after placing first in not only physical but also organic chemistry. He was accepted into a postdoctoral program at UCLA, where working with some of the leading biochemical scientists helped unlock a better understanding of mitochondrial energy function. He played an integral role in discoveries that led to the awarding of a Nobel Prize in Chemistry to his mentor and surrogate father figure, Dr. Paul Boyer.

In 1973, Rich moved to Syracuse, NY, and became a professor at Upstate University. Through his teaching, mentorship, and development of young faculty, he impacted countless future medical professionals and scientists, many of whom have already reached out to his family to express their appreciation for the impact he had on their lives and their sadness at his passing.

Outside of his professional life, Rich was an avid dog owner and lover of nature, in particular taking time during his retirement to share his expertise and love of flowers with visitors to the Erie Canal Park. He also greatly enjoyed cooking and delighted in preparing meals for those he loved and bringing everyone to the table for good food, good wine, and plenty of laughs.

Rich will be remembered for his intellect, his warmth, his generosity, and his unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, most importantly, through his closest family members, who include his wife, Kathryn; his daughter, Emily; his brother, Greg; his sister-in-law, Donna; his niece, Katie; her daughter, Natalie; his cousin, Steve; and his extended family. He is also survived by many friends who cannot all be named here.

Service information will be provided at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Richard L. Cross Jr., PhD, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Endowment #61945. The specific purpose of this fund is to support the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Upstate Medical University. The Upstate Foundation is located at 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210.

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