Obituary of Karl Robert Voigtritter

It is with profound sorrow that the family of Dr. Karl Robert Voigtritter announce his passing on the day of July 25, 2021. His 35 years were filled with love, laughter, adventure,and academia. Born December 26, 1985, in La Mesa, California, Karl graduated from Monte Vista High School. Not only was he a gifted student, he was also on the offensive line for the CIF Championship football team. Karl also developed his passion for nature as a lifelong Boy Scout, which culminated in being awarded Eagle Scout rank before leaving home for college. Karl was absolutely enamored with Chemistry, and wholly devoted himself to this passion as a chemistry major at Chico State University. During his early years on campus, Karl earned a hefty sum of scholarships and awards, including the honor of 2009 Outstanding Graduating Senior. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he continued his studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and earned a PhD in Organic Chemistry in 2013. His pursuit of knowledge and excellence certainly did not end there. After earning his doctorate degree, Karl went on to earn a Green Chemistry Challenge award from the Environmental Protection Agency, which led to a fellowship in Medicinal Chemistry from the prestigious Vanderbilt University. Ultimately, Karl returned to the home of his heart- he was hired as a lecturer at his Alma Mater, Chico State, in 2015. Karl’s research interests led to numerous publications, including authored work in the Journal of Chemical Education during his undergraduate studies, eight peer-reviewed publications during his doctoral studies, and two more at Vanderbilt, where his work was funded by a National Institutes of Health Neuroscience Drug Discovery Training Grant. Karl was a devoted father who adored his two children. He enjoyed nothing more than taking them golfing, camping, and on family vacations with his extended family. He was heavily involved in their Cub Scout pack, as to develop a shared love of nature and self-reliance that he had found with the organization. In his free time, Karl was a prolific and passionate artist, using a variety of media to create striking works. He loved sharing this hobby with his children as well. He is survived by his beloved children, Max and Irene; his parents Max and Brenda; brothers Kris and Kurt; and sister Meghann, brother-in-law Joseph, nephews Jackson and Matthew, and a large and devoted network of cousins and friends. His family is establishing an endowed scholarship in his name. Memorial contributions can be designated in his name to the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. A celebration of life will be held October 14 next to the Chico State Chemistry building from 4pm – 7pm. To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Karl Robert Voigtritter, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.