David B Ring
Sept. 7, 1951-July 31, 2024
Palo Alto, California

David Ring passed away peacefully at his home in Palo Alto, California, on July 31, 2024. He was the son of Eileen Greear and Robert Ring. David was born in Upland, California, and was raised by his parents and extended family, the Harnish family (Aunts Ruby, Lily and Uncle Dewey).

David graduated from Upland High School; studied Biochemistry at Pomona College (the Claremont Colleges in southern California), where he met his wife, Koon. David continued his graduate study and earned his PhD in Biochemistry from UC Berkeley and completed his postdoctoral fellowship at UCSF. He then embarked on a successful scientific career at Cetus Corporation (biotech), which later became part of Chiron, and eventually Novartis, where he contributed to advancements in monoclonal antibodies and small molecule drugs targeting cancer research.

David was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in his 50s, leading him to his early retirement from his beloved scientific research. Despite his physical challenges, he continued to live a vibrant life, finding joy in daily hikes in nearby nature preserves and foothills with his family and dedicated caregivers, Raddie Cuevas and Winston dela Cruz.

David had a deep passion for the outdoors, often visiting the American River to pan gold and organizing camping trips with his family and friends. He practiced Tai Chi and Aikido, loved old things and cherished hearing and telling stories. An avid reader, he particularly enjoyed science fiction and fantasy books, with Ursula K. Le Guin being his favorite author.

David is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Koon, his daughter, Karen, his grandson, Fisher, his son-in-law Stephen, his brothers-in-law Soe, Ken and Moon, and sisters-in-law Juma, Molly Sarah, Kieu, Annie and Janice, and his nieces and nephews, Maybelle, Robbie, Jennifer, Daniel, Linda, Gregory, Michael, Laura and Melissa. He is predeceased by his brothers-in-law Win, Kim, Dick, and nephew, Matthew.

David will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, whose warmth, intelligence and adventurous spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed. A celebration of life for David was held by closed family and relatives in Monterey, CA. in September.