Visit http://bit.ly/40GaI38 to view a more complete version of Tim’s obituary. Visit https://bit.ly/3WLlQdL to RSVP to Tim’s Celebration of Life on March 8, 2025.
Dr. Timothy Hunkapiller, 71, of Mercer Island, passed away unexpectedly on September 30, 2024. A pioneering scientist in computational biology and biotechnology, Tim leaves behind a legacy of innovation, kindness, and unwavering support for those he loved.
Born in Paris, Texas, Tim grew up in Oklahoma, where his love for nature, science, and learning began. After earning his B.S. in Biology from Oklahoma Baptist University, Tim went on to earn his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Caltech in 1993, where he co-authored groundbreaking research and contributed to the development of the 4-color DNA sequencing technique, transforming genomic research worldwide and making the completion of the Human Genome Project possible.
Tim’s career spanned many impactful roles, including Senior Consultant at Life Technologies, Chief Scientist at Paracel, Associate Professor at the University of Washington, and founder of Discovery Biosciences. His expertise in genomics and technology helped shape modern healthcare, from personalized therapies to early disease detection. Tim was also a mentor, fostering collaboration and empowering others to reach their full potential.
Above all, Tim’s greatest joy was his family. He married Cindy Ball in 1997, and together they built a life filled with love, music, pets, and travel. Tim adored his daughter, Harley, whom he encouraged and championed with incredible pride.
Tim’s passions included science, science fiction, staying up-to-date on current affairs, and music. He was known for his warm presence, quick wit, and strong opinions, and enjoyed daily walks with his dogs and socializing at his local Starbucks. His contributions to both his profession and his community were immense and he left an impact on all who knew him.
Tim’s kindness, humility, and unwavering support for those he loved will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Cindy Ball, and his daughter, Harley Hunkapiller. He also leaves behind his brother, Michael Hunkapiller, and sister-in-law, Beth Hunkapiller; sister-in-law, Linda Bramer; sister-in-law, Samantha Roit; and 23 nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Tim was predeceased by his parents, Kermit Hunkapiller and Ruth Landreth; his sister, Patricia O’Neal; mother-in- law, Janet Ball; brother-in-law, Gregg Roit.
A celebration of Tim’s life will be held on March 8th, 2025, at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center at 1:00 pm, located at 8236 SE 24th St, Mercer Island, WA 98040. All are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider donations to the Seattle Mission, ACLU, or Planned Parenthood, reflecting Tim’s commitment to caring for the underserved, civil advocacy, and women’s rights.
Tim will be remembered as a brilliant mind, a loving husband and father, a loyal friend, a friendly neighbor, and an advocate for a better world. He will be deeply missed.
Beam him up, Scotty.
