Pasadena, CA
John Michael Boyle, a cherished brother, devoted uncle, and passionate scientist, passed away on August 9, 2024, after a long and courageous 16-year battle with cancer.
The son of James (Jim) and Susan Boyle, John was born in Pasadena on January 23, 1973.
John was a “lifer” at Polytechnic School, where he was an active member of Troop 5, served as Senior Patrol Leader, and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He spent nearly every summer either attending Camp Cherry Valley as a camper or serving as a counselor, sharing scouting and his love for the outdoors with younger scouts.
His interest in science led him to the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned an undergraduate degree in Molecular and Cell Biology. While at Cal, he was a proud member of the Chi Psi Fraternity, developed a fondness for Jack Daniels, and became an enthusiastic supporter of the Pac-12 version of the Cal Bears.
His dedication to scientific research began as a CIRM Fellow at the Blelloch Lab at UCSF, where he studied prostate cancer in mice. Reflecting on his experience, John once said, "I did not want to be a spectator of science; I wanted to be a participant."
This sentiment drove his commitment to research and his desire to contribute to the field meaningfully.
John continued his journey at the Hockemeyer Lab at UC Berkeley, earning a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology. He had recently returned to Pasadena to realize his dream job at HMRI, dedicating himself to advancing stem cell research.
Personally, John was known for his love of the beach, where he found joy “frolicking” in the waves, hunting for sea glass, and body surfing.
John was a paragon of loyalty and reliability to his friends, always the one they could count on. His sharp, sarcastic wit and gentlemanly demeanor made him a treasured companion. His family will remember him fondly as "Uncle Slim" to his niece, Lauren Boyle, and his nephews, Spencer and Connor Boyle. His love and devotion to his family were boundless, and he was always ready to bring joy and warmth into their lives.
John will be most profoundly missed by his sister, Kathryn Boyle, with whom he lived during the last few months of his life. Their time together was marked by deep connection and mutual support, making his absence all the more poignant. He is also survived by his devoted brother, Peter (Janine) Boyle.
John’s legacy of dedication, joy, and unwavering affection for his family and friends will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A celebration of John’s life will be held on October 26, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Valley Hunt Club in Pasadena. Those wishing to honor his life are encouraged to make donations in his name to either HMRI in Pasadena, CA, or UCSF Foundation - 7001795 (prostate cancer research) in San Francisco.