Perhaps it is easier to carve out a narrow scientific area and by sticking to it for a lifetime one can leisurely proceed toward international fame and recognition. However, that was not the nature of the person I am going describe. This presentation is not just my own evaluation of his spirit and driving force during his journey of 60+ years into areas to where only a few if any went before. It is also strongly supported by that of those who worked with him at various stages of his life. The chemistry presented in this talk is secondary. The few references are only given to demonstrate his willingness to attack the unknown. One does not have to be even a chemist to come to that conclusion. As a young chemist he started out on an area where the conventional chemical reactions frequently either did not work or lead to unexpected results.  This was fluorine chemistry. He worked with toxic materials, he blew up a few times, but that did not hold him back. He developed new fluorinating agents to create active pesticides, soil proof surfaces and even high-energy solid oxidizers for rocket propulsion. However, he also ventured out toward new areas such as shrink proofing wool or glow discharge chemistry to help the U.S. agriculture. His aim was always what benefit the research could provide for our everyday life. His last effort was even to get to the space, but this remained a dream.

Always a pioneer: Sic itur ad astra!

248th National Meeting (2014)

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