Tom Volkert Obituary: Belmont, Massachusetts, Mourns the Unexpected Loss of Bloomsburg University Fiscal Technician and Whitehead Institute Director, a Visionary Leader in Genome Technology
Tom Volkert, a highly respected and beloved member of the scientific community, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 7, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, leadership, and friendship. As Fiscal Technician, Military Benefits/TAP/OVR at Bloomsburg Commonwealth University and Director of the Genome Technology Core at the Whitehead Institute, Tom’s contributions to the field of genomics were instrumental in shaping the future of scientific research.
Tom’s journey in the scientific community began twenty years ago, when he started working on early systems biology methods. His expertise and guidance were sought after by many, including a young postdoc who would later become a close friend and colleague. Together, they worked on pioneering sequencing methods, such as ChipChip and ChIPseq, laying the foundation for future breakthroughs in genomics.
As Director of the Genome Technology Core at the Whitehead Institute, Tom’s leadership and vision were instrumental in driving innovation and collaboration. His door was always open, and his advice was sought by many. He was a true mentor, colleague, and friend, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement.
Tom’s passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, and his community is mourning the loss of a man who was more than just a colleague. He was a husband, a father, and a friend, whose love for life was evident in everything he did. His love for the blues was matched only by his love for his family, and his fond memories of listening to music on Beale Street in Memphis will be cherished by those who knew him.
As the news of Tom’s passing spread, shock and sadness reverberated throughout the scientific community. Friends and colleagues from around the world are coming together to mourn his loss and celebrate his life, sharing stories and memories of a man who touched so many lives.
Tom’s legacy will continue to inspire and motivate those who knew him, a testament to the enduring power of his leadership, vision, and friendship. His contributions to the field of genomics will never be forgotten, and his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched.
The community of Belmont, Massachusetts, and the scientific world at large will deeply miss Tom Volkert, a man whose life was a testament to the transformative power of innovation, leadership, and friendship. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew him, ensuring that his memory will never be forgotten.
In the face of unimaginable loss, the community has come together to support Tom’s family, wife Angela, and their sons, during this difficult time. The outpouring of love and support is a poignant reminder of the impact Tom had on those around him, and the memories of his life and legacy will continue to inspire and motivate those who knew him.
The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, but they have also invited friends and colleagues to share their thoughts and memories of Tom, a testament to the enduring power of his legacy. As the scientific community comes together to mourn the loss of a true leader and friend, they will also celebrate his life, a life that was lived to the fullest, and a life that will never be forgotten.
