Michelle Mary Sims

Those who knew her well had the joy of experiencing Michelle’s deeply loving heart under her

always practical and direct demeanor. In everything, she sought out life, helping it thrive in her

home, her garden, and her work. Although she’d tell you it was a lot of work, she found peace in

her animals, horseback riding, gardening, and cooking. A lover and creator of art, Michelle

surrounded herself with it by exploring different mediums over the years and even making the

jewelry she wore.

Her house was a menagerie. Animals in need of rescue could always find a home with her.

Over time, she housed innumerable dogs and cats as well as a goat, pony, donkey, birds, and

squirrels. Although loathe to admit it, Michelle loved what she called “big dumb dogs” (drool and

all), as well as the smart small ones and all those in between.

In her work, Michelle explored the inner workings of the natural world as a biologist and

geneticist. At times a breeder of dogs, canaries, irises, and orchids, Michelle was always

fascinated with how the world worked. Her passion for nature contributed to her early career as

a park ranger, and her affinity for science ultimately led her to become the researcher we all

knew.

Michelle was immensely proud of her work, and is internationally recognized for her

contributions to cloning, genetics, cancer research, and stem cells. She loved her work, with a

career spanning leadership roles in research programs at the University of Wisconsin, Colorado

State University, and University of Tennessee Health and Science Center. She was on the

ground floor of genetics, holding multiple patents and authoring premier research publications

for her contributions developing and improving cloning methods, among other topics. Michelle’s

drive to help others, combined with her scientific talents contributed to drug research and

innumerable other projects. She was always willing to share her discoveries to advance

medicine for those in need.

Michelle is survived by her sister Toni, brothers James and Richard, and a gaggle of nieces and

nephews and their children.

Per Michelle’s wishes, no memorial service is planned. In lieu of flowers, please help a cause

dear to her heart by donating to your choice of animal rescue.

She will be missed