In Memoriam

doi:10.1515/ci-2025-0213

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In Memoriam

Published/Copyright: April 21, 2025

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From the journal Chemistry International Volume 47 Issue 2

Abstract

Bryant William Rossiter, age 93, passed away of natural causes on December 22, 2024, at Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital in Provo, Utah. Born 10 March 1931, in Ogden, Utah, to Bryant Baddley Rossiter and Christine Elaine Peterson, he was the eldest of three children.

Bryant married Betty Jean Anderson, on 16 April 1951, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Their union was a testament to love and devotion. He was preceded in death by Betty and their son, Bryant Edwin, but leaves behind a remarkable legacy through his family, including seven children, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A distinguished chemist and visionary leader, Dr. Rossier’s career was marked by groundbreaking contributions to science. He earned his B.A. in Chemistry (1954) and Ph.D. in Chemistry with a minor in Physics (1957) from the University of Utah. His career took him to prominent roles, including Director of Science and Technology development at Eastman Kodak Company and Vice President of ICN Pharmaceuticals, Inc., where he played a pivotal role in the development of the antiviral drug “Ribavirin.”

Bryant Rossiter made significant contributions to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), particularly through his leadership in CHEMRAWN (the Chemical Research Applied to World Needs). He served as the inaugural chair of the CHEMRAWN Committee from 1978 to 1987, playing a pivotal role in shaping its mission to address global challenges through chemistry. Under Rossiter’s leadership, CHEMRAWN organized conferences that brought together scientific leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to tackle pressing world issues. One notable event was CHEMRAWN II, held in Manila, Philippines, in December 1982, focusing on “Chemistry and World Food Supplies—the New Frontiers.” This groundbreaking conference was the first major international scientific meeting in a developing country, setting a precedent for future CHEMRAWN conferences. Dr. Rossiter’s vision and dedication established CHEMRAWN as a vital platform within IUPAC, fostering international collaboration to apply chemical research to global needs. His efforts have had a lasting impact on the chemistry community’s approach to addressing societal challenges. (John Malin, CI 29(2), 2007, pp. 4-7. https://doi.org/10.1515/ci.2007.29.2.4)

Bryant Rossiter dedication to learning and discovery was evident throughout his life. Beyond his professional accolades, Bryant was a man of many passions. He was active in Boy Scouting and loved outdoors, fishing, horseback riding, and traveling. He found immense joy in history, reading, writing, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grand-children.

Published Online: 2025-04-21

Published in Print: 2025-04-01

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