Priel, your memory is a blessing and lives on among all of us who had the privilege to know you.   Your spirit embodies everything that is good in humanity--kindheartedness, concern and caring for your family, friends, and strangers, stewardship of our shared environment--and your enduring optimism about the goodness of others.  I will always remember meeting you when you came to the first session of my Graduate Seminar in Social Ecology, SE200.  You exuded genuine enthusiasm for and extraordinary openness to ideas and perspectives that were new to you and outside of your "comfort zone".    You were excited to learn about and apply social ecological principles to medical research and practice, and your commitment to transdisciplinary scholarship and practice continued to grow stronger  as you embarked on your dissertation research in social ecology and then completed your training as an MD at UCI.  But even more memorable than your intellectual talent and capacity for cross-disciplinary thinking were your exemplary spiritual qualities as a kind, caring, and supportive person, qualities admired and appreciated by all who knew you.   We miss you very much and we will continue to say kaddish in your honor and to cherish the memories we have of you.  With love and admiration, Dan

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Priel Schmalbach and I met each other at UC Irvine during our Medical Scientist training as MD/PhDs. It just happened to be that we connected at the first time we saw each other. We had lunch over our passion for the outdoors and climbing, and immediately were out on the walls together very soon after. Priel was infectious with his positive attitude, and it definitely shaped my life for the best…. So much so I asked him to be my house mate the very next year! Throughout our time together living by the beach, we shared water, wind and fire on many adventures. We flew planes, climbed El Capitan, multi-pitched our way up Tahquitz rock, surfed, ran, swam, practiced yoga, studied super hard, and tried to be the best version of our self as possible. Priel helped me tremendously with his warm heart and positive outlook through many of my difficult moments in both personal and professional settings. 

Although this is a personal account of my relationship with Priel, he was truly like a super-glue of our community. He connected with every soul from all different parts of the world (literally). I am sure he touched many others in a meaningful way to change their lives to be joyous and meaningful. As I move forward in life, Priel always will be there with me in spirit… helping guide me to be kind, happy, and helpful to the universe we live in. I hope others who have had a relationship with Priel in any capacity are able to channel his spirit to do the same. 

Love you Priel, your spirit will always live on through the people you have inspired.

We are so very sorry about this terrible tragedy.  We are the parents of Tyger, one of Morgan's friends, and we heard from her  about the progression of Morgan and Priel's courtship, engagement and marriage.  They seemed made for each other. There really are no words, but we are thinking of and praying for all of Priel's family as you go  through this devastating time. May your faith offer comfort during the days ahead. 
Jana and Terry Danger

Priel,

You were always such a force to be reckoned with. Although I have not seen you in many years my heart ached at the news of your passing. I will always remember your big smile and your ability to make everyone in a room feel welcome. You brought so much love and energy to others and that lesson is something I will carry with me. Thank you for all of the light that you brought. May you continue to shine bright wherever you are. 

I will miss you my friend,
Mani

Priel, 

May your soul be bound up and may it be the will of HaShem that your soul go to its place of rest, and go there in peace. May it also be the will of HaShem that your  parents, siblings and members of the community always remember and  hold you in their hearts as you  in you lived in your very best of moments. May your family and friends be comforted from above and may we all follow the shining example of your dear, dear parents. 

OBITUARY

Priel Schmalbach

9 October, 1984 – 17 October, 2018

Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels at Mount Nebo/Kendall Memorial Gardens

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