Frizell L. Vaughan, associate professor emeritus of environmental and industrial health and associate research scientist emeritus at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, died of natural causes on March 16. He was 90 years old.

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Abraham and Amanda G. Vaughan, he received his Bachelor of Science in biology in 1949 from Hampton University, formerly Hampton Institute. He received his Master of Arts in 1949 and Ph.D. in 1967 from U-M, where he spent his career as a research scientist and associate professor at the School of Public Health.

Vaughan was instrumental in the technical development of a device that has the potential to carry electrical or pneumatic power through the skin to drive a heart-assist device or to allow the long-term survival of a percutaneous catheter for kidney dialysis or body drainage. He was also at the forefront of the scientific effort to develop in vitro, tissues and organs that are morphologically and physiologically similar to their counterparts in the human body. In addition to his scientific activities, Vaughan also devoted considerable energy over the years to assisting the academic and social progress of individuals from groups underrepresented in the field of science.

Preceded in death by his parents and in 1984 by his wife Rebecca A. Vaughan, he leaves on earth his daughter Patricia (Tony) Lovett, his beloved granddaughter Miyoshia Jones, two grandsons, Orlando Williams II and Anthony Chatman, nine great-grandchildren, special niece Adriane Faulks McCann, special extended family Russ, Bobby and Joe, the Jones family and a host of cousins.

Per Vaughan’s wishes, there will be a cremation and no service. His ashes will be scattered in the Memorial Garden at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor. Notes of love and encouragement to his loved ones are welcome. Share memories and express condolences at myumi.ch/a0KnZ.