In memory of our friend Roberto Araya

Dear friends, I was very sad to hear about the passing of our friend and colleague Roberto Araya at his home in Montreal after complications from a short illness. Roberto was a brilliant and dynamic scientist, artist, and human being whom we will all miss dearly, and I’m sure we all have memories of his passion and humor that we will take with us always. I’m starting this Gofundme account for his family Soledad, Roberto, and Max in order to help with expenses regarding final arrangements, etc., as I know this is an extremely difficult time for them.

I am currently putting as a goal $15,000 USD, but please feel free to give as much as you feel inclined, as I know his family would appreciate your support.

I would also like to start an online book of memories and photos, so I will pass on information about that later or please feel free to reach out to me.

I don’t know how many fond memories I have of having a beer with Roberto in NYC, Montreal, or at whatever conference we happened to meet at, and talking about science, art, music, or travel until the wee hours of the morning- always ending up laughing til tears, but also coming away with some new and deep realization about the world. Because that’s what Roberto was always after: unlocking the secrets- the underlying beauty and meaning of the world. He pursued this with a passion that you could see in his science, his drawings, his grilling and beermaking, rock climbing, most of all in his love for his family, and really in every molecule of his being. Roberto always lived life to the fullest and I will miss his hearty laugh and crazy brilliant imagination, as I’m sure we all will.

I will pass on any other information or arrangements as I hear of them, so feel free to check back to this site or contact me directly by email.

Thank you for your thoughts for Roberto's family in these trying times.

Clay