Brian Cardall, a doctoral student in molecular ecology, died June 9, 2009, in Utah. He was 32.
Mr. Cardall was a Science Foundation Arizona fellow, studying community genetics, the study of how genetic variation within species influences its distribution, abundance and fitness.
“Brian had all the intellectual, creative and scientific tools he needed to become one of the most outstanding scientists of his generation,” said Stephen Shuster, professor of biological sciences. “To say he will be missed is a tragic understatement.”
Maribeth Watwood, chair of biological sciences, said, “We here at NAU in our department, we are a very cohesive community of scholars and we are heartbroken. We are reeling with shock from losing this talented and kind and outgoing young man who was part of our community.”
Mr. Cardall was born in Salt Lake City on Dec. 7, 1976, the sixth child of Duane and Margaret Cardall. After serving a mission to Bilbao, Spain, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Utah State University.
In addition to his scientific studies, Mr. Cardall also recorded music under the pseudonym Jonahs.
He is survived by his wife Anna, 2-year-old daughter Ava Skye, his parents and seven siblings: Carol (Douglas) Burgoyne; Caron (Dustin) Child; Rebecca (David) Smith; Paul L. (Lynnette) Cardall; David L. (Cheryl) Cardall; Jane (Michael Garner) Cardall and Craig L. (Heather) Cardall. He also is survived by grandparents Alan W. and Mona S. Layton, a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral services were held Monday in Salt Lake City. Online condolences to the family may be sent at holbrookmortuary.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations to assist his widow and daughters can be made to the Brian Cardall Memorial Fund at either Mountain America Credit Union or Wells Fargo.