Thabiso M’Timkulu born on November 15, 1944 in Durban, South Africa, died on May 19, 2013, after complications during surgery. Thabiso arrived in the United States in 1968 and obtained undergraduate degrees from the University of Pittsburgh (Mathematics) and University of California, Berkeley, (Bacteriology/Immunology) and went on to earn a M.A. in Medical Microbiology from the California State University, San Jose.
After a two-year stay in Botswana and Zambia, in medical teaching positions, he returned to the United States and became a PH. D. candidate at the University of Washington, Seattle. In 1981, he returned to the Bay Area and started working for several biotechnology companies. First at Cetus Corporation, Emeryville, then at Triton Biosciences, Alameda, and finally at Berlex Biosciences, Richmond. During that time, he published several scientific papers and was awarded three patents. After retiring, he became a part-time instructor at Merritt College and thereafter at Laney College, Oakland, until the end of his life.
During the last 30 years, he was a resident of El Sobrante. More than anything else, he enjoyed exploring the beautiful vistas of California.
He is survived by his wife Johanna Schroettner , his son Michael L. Schroettner of El Cerrito and grandson Elijah, his sister Thoko Mbewu, Mochudi, Botswana, and brother Lizo M’Timkulu, Englewood, NJ; his nephews Dr. Anthony Mbewu and Zwelinzima M’Timkulu , their families and many relatives in the United States, Botswana and South Africa. We all will miss him very much.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later time.