Kurt passed away at home surrounded by family on Sunday, November 2, 2014. He was diagnosed with adrenal cancer in the fall of 2013 and battled bravely through surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Kurt taught Inorganic during the first week of classes and managed to remain in good spirits as he received many visitors at the hospital and at home. His obituary appeared in the Maroon on November 7. He is sorely missed.

We all know how much Kurt cared about students and their development as young scientists. We think it would make him happy to know that his influence and support carry on.

His memorial ceremony was held on Loyola University's campus in the St. Charles Room of the Danna Center on Saturday, December 6 in the late morning. 

Here is a link to the giving page for the Birdwhistell Endowment: http://spark.loyno.edu/birdwhistell-research-endowment