Herbert Karl Brunkhorst, who taught biology and science education at California State University, San Bernardino, for 24 years, died peacefully in his home in Riverside with his wife by his side. Born in New York City on Nov. 25, 1944, to Karl and Lisa Detjen Brunkhorst, Herb dedicated his life to science, science education, scholarship, and mentorship.

An informal memorial service took place on Aug. 3 at the First Congregational Church in Riverside, according to an obituary in The Press-Enterprise.

A nationally and internationally recognized leader in STEM education, Brunkhorst was revered as a “patient and kind mentor with STEM faculty throughout the CSU campuses” and a “model of dedication, passion, and humanity.” The California Science Teachers Association presented Brunkhorst with its highest honor, the Margaret Nicholson Distinguished Service Award, for his “positive impact on science teaching in California.” 

He also received the National Science Teaching Association’s Distinguished Service Award and its most distinguished Carleton Award. Additionally, he was elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and awarded National Associate of the National Academy of Science Research Council as “a superb and dedicated teacher and scholar.” Herb served as president of the Association of Teachers of Science.

Brunkhorst graduated from Bergenfield High School in New Jersey, earned his B.S. from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and received his M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. He cherished the fellowship, thoughtfulness, and love of the First Congregational Church of Riverside, as well as the neighbors and friends who enriched his life. He will be remembered with deep fondness and admiration by colleagues globally, and he will continue to be a lasting part of Bonnie’s life.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Bonnie Hubler Brunkhorst; his stepdaughters, Carolyn Frimpter of Shoreline, Wash., and Kathryn Dee of Norco; his grandchildren, Bradley and Alexander Grace, and Mica and Kay Frimpter; his niece Erin Gallager of Wintergarden, Fla.; and nephew Sean and Rachel Gallager with grandniece Audrey of Sayreville, N.J.

Contributions are welcome to the NSTA’s Herbert Brunkhorst Fund for classroom teachers’ professional conference travel. Checks may be mailed to: National Science Teaching Association, PO Box 90214, Washington DC, 90090-0214 (Memo: Herbert Brunkhorst Fund).