Burr Slaughter

Dr. Slaughter obtained his B.S. in geology and chemistry from Ohio University, his M.A. in geochemistry and chemistry from University of Missouri, and his Ph.D. in molecular chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh. As assistant professor to full professor of geochemistry at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Dr. Slaughter taught solid-state chemistry, geochemistry, and X-ray and optical crystallography during his 10-year tenure there. He also taught at the University of Missouri geology field camp (Camp Branson in Sinks Canyon, WY) for many years, and his experiences teaching field geology were some of his favorite memories. He visited the area many times during his lifetime. As professor of chemistry and geochemistry at the Colorado School of Mines, Dr Slaughter also taught and performed research in quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics and other spectroscopies, both in theory and practice. Dr. Slaughter published nearly 50 papers and technical reports. Much of his research was innovative. His book, "Behavior of Quarks, Theory of Light, Matter, Mass, Electric Charge, Gravity and Restructured General Relativity" published in 2007 was no exception. Dr. Slaughter taught and researched at the Colorado School of Mines from 1969 to 1999, retiring as Professor Emeritus. He had a passion for education, learning, and thinking and it defined his life. In addition to teaching, he worked for Gulf Oil throughout the state of Wyoming where he maintained a laboratory in Lander for five years.

Dr. Slaughter is survived by his wife, Judy, children Thad and wife Amanda of Flower Mound, TX, Cecil and wife Sara Kohn of Englewood, CO, Mike and wife Suzzane of Salt Lake City, UT, Steve and wife Michelle of Thornton, CO, and Amy Whithaus of Lewisville, TX. Also survived by step-children Joni and husband Mark Wilson of Tualitin, OR, Jeni Wells of Lakewood, CO, Jeri and husband Michael Howell of Arvada, CO, Jodi and husband Trev Strong of Lakewood, CO, and Jamie and wife Bridget Burke of Shafer, MN, 19 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren. He has two surviving sisters, Brenda and husband Bob Engle of Florida, Jaye and husband Bernie Lincicome of Illinois, brother John and wife Mary Slaughter of Texas, nieces and nephews.

The gathering in celebration of his life will be held Saturday, April 9 at 1 pm in Golden at Colorado School of Mines chemistry building, Coolbaugh Hall room 209, 14th and Illinois. Free parking. Donations in Dr. Slaughter's name may be made to National Jewish Hospital, 1400 Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80206