Merle A. Battiste, 76, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday August 8th. He was born July 22nd, 1933 in Mobile, AL to David Theodore and Flossie (Older) Battiste. Merle attended The Citadel, then Columbia University, obtaining a PhD in Chemistry in 1959. He was a professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Florida for 42 years, and is remembered as a dedicated, passionate teacher and consummate scientist. Merle developed close relationships with many of his students and was often a mentor well into their careers, including one future Nobel Laureate. Merle was a member of the Gainesville Camellia Society for many years, and was often happiest outside working in the yard. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Flossie, father David, and brother Marion. He is survived by his wife Jan, brother Melvin, sister Marie, children Mark, John, Tanya, Paula, Tracey, and grandchildren Alex, Audrey, Michael, Blakely, Cass and Thomas. A memorial service will be held Thursday Aug 13th at Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Ave, at 2 PM. A funeral service will follow later in Mobile, AL for family. Memorials can be directed to the American Diabetes Association . Arrangements are under the care of Forest Meadows Funeral Home. Tags: 1954
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