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In Memoriam: Dr. Nathaniel R. Quick (April 20, 1949 – February 4, 2025)By The Laser Institute (LIA) Press Team - Honoring a Visionary Leader in Laser Processing of Advanced Materials It is with deep sadness that The Laser Institute (LIA) announces the passing of Dr. Nathaniel R. Quick on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Lake Mary, Florida, at the age of 75. Dr. Quick was a pioneering figure in laser processing of advanced materials and a dedicated leader within LIA, serving as its Executive Director from 2017 to 2023. His groundbreaking contributions to laser applications and his steadfast commitment to driving innovation have left an indelible mark on the industry and the global laser community. Dr. Quick’s tenure with LIA spanned decades, during which he played an instrumental role in guiding the organization’s mission to promote lasers, laser applications, and laser safety worldwide. He was elected to the LIA Board of Directors multiple times, holding key leadership positions, including Secretary (2004–2007), President-elect (2009), and President (2010). In 2006, he was named an LIA Fellow, an honor recognizing individuals widely known for exceptional professional contributions to both the laser community and LIA. Beyond LIA, Dr. Quick was a renowned innovator and entrepreneur. As the founder, President, and CTO of AppliCote Associates, LLC, he pioneered advanced materials transformation using laser implantation at high pressures, amassing over 60 patents and publishing over 60 times throughout his prolific career. His work significantly impacted semiconductor processing, photonics, and energy technologies, positioning him as a leading authority in laser material interactions. His expertise was widely recognized through his affiliations with esteemed institutions, including serving as a guest researcher at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Chairman of the Advisory Board and Graduate Faculty Scholar for Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Central Florida (UCF), and the Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers (CREOL) at UCF. He also served as a member of the Army Science Board. A Life of Passion and Excellence Dr. Quick’s accomplishments extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He was a lifelong advocate for education and history, frequently taking his family on cross-country trips to explore places of interest and share historical insights. A jazz enthusiast, he found great joy in music. A natural athlete, Dr. Quick excelled in football and track during high school, earning recognition as a standout competitor at Moorestown High School (NJ) and Brighton High School (NY). He was valedictorian and president of his senior class at Brighton High School, where he was the only African American student. His dedication to athletics continued throughout his life, including playing tennis, basketball, running, swimming, and earning a 2nd-degree Black Belt in Mixed Martial Arts. Recognitions and Affiliations Throughout his lifetime, Dr. Quick received numerous honors, awards, and recognition, including:
A Lasting Legacy Dr. Quick is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lauralee Quick; his mother, Naomi Jeanne White Quick; his children, Erica, Andrea (husband Rodger), and Jelani (wife Tamika), six grandchildren, his sister Linda (husband Robert), and his brothers Dennis and David, along with nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was predeceased by his father, Nathaniel Edwin Quick (1990), and son, Anthony Quick (2022). Reflecting on Dr. Quick’s legacy, LIA Executive Director Shaun Oleson shared:
A celebration of life service will be announced at a later date. Sending Condolences & Inquiries For those wishing to send written correspondence to Dr. Quick’s family, LIA will forward messages received at: The Laser Institute Please note that LIA cannot accept flowers or gifts at this address. For additional inquiries, including arrangements and other expressions of sympathy, please refer to Dr. Quick’s obituary or contact the funeral home directly: Nathaniel Quick Obituary & Guestbook DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory Dr. Quick’s influence will endure in the advancements he pioneered, the colleagues he inspired, and the future generations who will build upon his work. The Laser Institute extends our heartfelt condolences to his family and all those who were touched by his brilliance and kindness. |