In loving memory of

Robert Shigetsugu Kimura
June 5, 1920 - April 7, 2017

Dr Robert S. Kimura, inner ear researcher and medical scientist, died April 7, 2017 at the age of 96. Born on June 5, 1920 in Long Beach, CA to Kumazo and Toku Kimura, he was a longtime resident of Weston, MA until he moved to Middleton, WI in 2009.

Co-founder and former director of the Electron Microscopy Laboratory at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA and associate professor at Harvard Medical School, Dr Kimura conducted research on Meniere's Disease and the structure of the inner ear. He was a strong believer in team research, particularly the collaboration between clinicians and basic scientists, as exemplified by his association with Dr Harold Schuknecht at Harvard Medical School for over three decades. In 1988, Dr Kimura was awarded the Shambaugh Prize in Otology by the Collegium Oto-Rhino-Laryngologicum and in 1990 was presented the Award of Merit of the Association of Otolaryngology Research in recognition of his contributions to the field. He continued his research activities at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary until his retirement in 2000.

A dedicated husband, a kind and supportive father and doting grandfather, Dr Kimura was always a pillar of strength for his family, providing wise yet friendly words at every occasion. He was staunchly loyal and dedicated to all those he befriended, and his gentle demeanour coupled with strong determination in all he did was an inspiration to those around him. He was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and loved classical music, bird-watching and Sudoku.

Robert Kimura is survived by his wife, Ayako, his two daughters, Ibuki Kimura of Middleton, WI and Tomomi Jorgensen of London, England, and his four grandchildren, Alex and Megan Button and Lukas and Keira Jorgensen.

Private Services will be held.

Cress Center
6021 University Ave.
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-8406

Tributes

Gershon J. Spector,MD wrote on May 3, 2017:

"It was a sad day to learn of Robert S, Kimura, PHD. passing. I spent two years in his laboratory , part time, when i was a resident at MEEI in the late 1960's. One of my Electron Microscopy new HISTOCHEMICAL projects lead to my winning the FOWLER PRIZE in 1973. I loved his patience and comfort ,as well as his taking time to help me analyze my data. I do remember that no matter how late we worked and how difficult the technical surgical projects,we always stopped at 4 PM to rest while imbibing green tea for 15 min. I have included many of his work techniques and lab behavior in my own lab work prior to my retiring. I will remember him most fondly and thank him for instilling in me the required honesty and patience that is needed to perform basic science. Gershon J. Spector, MD ,Professor Emeritus Head and Neck Surgery ,Washington University School of Medicine , Saint Louis, Mo."