Joel William Barlow

He held BS (January 1964), MS (June 1965), and PhD (January 1970) Degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He was a Research Assistant for one semester, an NSF E.I.T. Fellow for four semesters and a Research Fellow (1968-1970) at Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, a Research Chemical Engineer at Union Carbide Bound Brook, New Jersey (1970-1973) and spent nearly 30 years as a Professor of Chemical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin (1973-2002).

Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering 1973 – 1978

Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering 1978 – 1983

Professor of Chemical Engineering September 1983 – 1984

Z. D. Bonner Professor of Chemical Engineering September 1984 – 90

Cullen Trust for Higher Education Endowed Professorship #5 September 1990 – 2002

Graduate Advisor September 1990 – 94

Director, Manufacturing Engineering Systems Program January 1997 –2002

Joel was a lifelong student. He was dedicated to learning and passing his knowledge on to his students. His academic research program led to 199 peer-reviewed and published papers as well as his being a consultant to industry and a technical expert in patent and other litigation. He held 19 patents.

He had an endless curiosity about this world and our place in it. To sit with Joel and talk, one could find a single conversation meandering through a present political crisis to world history, to nature, the universe, the purpose of life, advances in technology and where it all may be headed. Whatever the topic or wherever a conversation with him may lead, there was always a gentle humanity in his approach and a humility in his understanding that the most important questions are without answers. He was always a teacher. It was his gift, his purpose and his greatest pleasure.

He had an interest not only in polymers (plastics) which were the primary focus of his academic endeavors, but Joel also had a fascination with things that flew, moved fast across water, or had interesting technology embedded. As “hobbies” he could be found taking flying lessons or designing and building radio-controlled airplanes, replicas of historic steam engine powered boats, (with full metal engines), an automated hydroponics garden, radio controlled boats – propellor and water jet based speed boats – and many more. Electronics, coding, chemistry, 3D design, mechanics, CNC machines, 3D printers and more were among Joel’s interests.

Joel is preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Kinney Barlow; his father, Everett Pratt Barlow; his brother, Fredric Lee Barlow; and infant son, Benjamin Barlow.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 58 years Barbara (Barby) Fergal Barlow, his son Peter Bradley Barlow (Rebeca), his brother-in-law James Fergal (Mary), his brothers Bruce (Karen), Gregory (Margaret) and David (Ruth Ann) and his sister Susanne Barlow Block as well as by his grandchildren Thomas Barlow and Chloe Barlow. They were the joy of his life. He is also survived by his son Mark S. Barlow, M.D. (Eileen) and granddaughters Madeleine Barlow and Katherine Barlow as well as by many nieces and nephews.

After retiring in 2002 and moving to Burnt Store Marina, FL, Joel became an avid sailing enthusiast. For many years he also was an active member of Temple Beth Shalom, Cape Coral, FL, where he served over the years as Treasurer and President of the Brotherhood, and Vice President of the congregation. He devoted much energy to the Religious School.

It has been said that Joel was very often the smartest, kindest, and most interesting person in the room. He will be missed by many friends and colleagues.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made to one of the following:

- the Central Texas Food Bank, 6500 Metropolis Drive, Austin, TX 78744

- Temple Beth Shalom, 702 SE 24th Avenue, Cape Coral, FL 33990

- a charity of your choice.

Please join us in remembering Joel and his influence on so many.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wcfishlaketravis.com for the Barlow family.