Larry Colin lived his life to the fullest while taking care of the world around him and died on November 3, 2015 at 11:45 p.m. at his home in Palo Alto surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was born on January 19, 1931 in Brooklyn, New York to Maurice and Celia Colin, and had one sister, Rhoda Arenson. He married the love of his life, Roberta Miles on June 28, 1953 in Bronx, New York. They spent most of their married life in Palo Alto, California where they raised two children, Lee and Lisa Colin.
Larry was a lifetime learner graduating from Brooklyn Polytech with a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1952. He continued his education at Syracuse University and received a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1960. In 1964, he received his Doctor of Philosophy Degree and later, in 1986, received a Masters Degree in Management both from Stanford University.
Larry started his professional career at Rome Air Development Center in New York where he was honored to receive a scholarship to attend Stanford University. He spent most of his professional life working for NASA Ames Research Center, receiving the 35-year service award in 1987. During his tenure, he was the Chief Space Scientist for the Pioneer Venus Project, receiving the distinguished service medal for inspired leadership and outstanding contributions in 1980. Additionally, he was responsible for overseeing and implementing the scientific activities for the Galileo Probe Mission to Jupiter, receiving the outstanding leadership medal in 1996.
Larry's passions included books, education, sports, technology, Starbucks and family and not in that order. He was the most well read person you would ever want to meet. Not only was he the epitome of a life long learner but encouraged his family to take advantage of educational opportunities whenever possible. He was an avid Stanford fan attending most football, basketball, and baseball games throughout his adult life. He was a real "techie" always interested in buying, learning about and using the latest technology. A day didn't go by without Larry having one if not more lattes. Larry was a dedicated family man and provided unconditional love and support for his family and loved ones. Larry is survived by his wife and children and other loved ones including Shakti Colin, Michael Fowler, Jordan Fowler, Miles Fowler, Jennifer Colin, Burt Colin, Julie Rizzo-Vulser, Mason Colin, Ashley Colin, Shaina Colin, Kryssy Asti, Alison Shildknecht, Jarod Schildknecht, Lillionie Colin and other many other family and friends.
Memorial Services will be held on Sunday, November 8th at Sinai Memorial Chapel at 1501 Divisadero St in San Francisco at 11:00 a.m. followed by a burial at the Eternal Home at 1051 El Camino Real in Colma. A Celebration of Life will be held at Larry and Roberta's home at 3:00 pm immediately following the burial service.