Arnold O. Beckman Remembered and Revered

Arthur Kornberg, Ph.D.
Nobel Laureate, Biochemistry Department, Stanford University

"Beckman Instruments-pH meters, spectrophotometers and centrifuges-fueled the revolutionary advance of the medical sciences in the post-World War II era. Dr. Beckman's creative philanthropies catalyzed the expansion of these basic discoveries and their wide application for human welfare."

Louis T. Rosso
Chairman-emeritus, Beckman Coulter, Inc.

"Dr. Beckman's lifelong contribution to the world of science is legendary, but his humanity, wit and day-to-day interaction enriched the lives of those of us within the company he founded and makes our personal loss all the greater."

Arnold Beckman during his graduate days at the California Institute of Technology.

Arnold and Mabel Beckman relax on the porch of their home in the late 1940's.

Donald Bren
Chairman, The Irvine Company

"What distinguished Arnold Beckman were his big dreams, a driving curiosity, powerful energy, a remarkably broad and deep intellect, and a focused determination that produced more than a lifetime of incredible results that have lifted mankind. One of the great joys of my life was knowing Arnold over many years as a personal friend, a gracious gentleman, a gifted businessman, and an insightful, helpful mentor. He was my contemporary hero."

Michael W. Berns, Ph.D.
CEO, Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic

"Dr. Beckman was one of the most unique people I have had the pleasure of knowing. His curiosity, sense of humor and clarity of mind were remarkable. I doubt I will ever meet anyone like him again. His mark on our society and the world will last forever."

Arnold and Mabel Beckman pause for an official family portrait with daughter, Patricia, and son, Arnold. (1946).

Dr. Beckman chats with President George Bush after receiving the National Medal of Science award in 1989.

Roger G. Kennedy
Director-emeritus, National Museum of American History

"Arnold Beckman had been at once a great scientist, a genius in industrial organization and a very good citizen. He combined competence and kindliness, precision in science and breadth of understanding, a lovely man and a great one."

Dr. Beckman and Bill Hewlett, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard, discuss the lighter side of the instrument business.

Peter Dervan, Ph.D.
Professor of Chemistry, California Institute of Technology

"As a scientist, Beckman understood where science was going, and as a businessman he set out to fulfill the need that he foresaw."

Craig Adams, Ph.D.
Director, Product Development Center

"Dr. Beckman was a visionary whose innovative products supported the transformation of biology and chemistry into molecular biology and biotechnology. From the tools of basic research to automated instruments for medical diagnostics, his foresight has created an opportunity for society to gain from the innovation of basic research."

Dr. Beckman is inducted into the U.S. National Inventor's Hall of Fame in 1987.