Dr. Gayl Ness, born March 19, 1929, in Los Angeles, CA, passed away peacefully in his sunroom at home with family by his side on July 4, 2024. He is survived by his wife Kathleen Bohn-Ness (nee Sheridan), his four children: Marc, Eric (married to Sue Ness), Yan Ness (married to Judith Spaly-Ness), and Shanta Layton; six grandchildren; as well as Kathleen’s four children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Gayl’s first wife, Jeannine Ness, preceded him in death in 2004.
At the age of 15, Gayl worked at a fire lookout station in Glacier National Park, an experience that instilled in him a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He cherished activities such as canoeing, sailing, camping, and chopping wood for fires, around which he would share captivating stories. Gayl served in the army during the Korean War, stationed in France, where he met and married his first wife, Jeannine.
Gayl dedicated his career to academic sociology, focusing on the intricate relationships between global population growth, economic development, and environmental change. He earned degrees from the University of Copenhagen (1955) and the University of California, Berkeley (BS with honors in 1952, 1958, and 1961). His research journey began with the Institute of Current World Affairs in Southeast Asia, sparking a lifelong interest in the region.
In 1964, Gayl joined the Sociology department at the University of Michigan, where he spent his entire academic career. He contributed significantly to Sociology, the College of Environment and Natural Resources, the School of Public Health, and the Center for Southeast Asian Studies. He also served as Chair of the Faculty Senate for a year.
Throughout his career, Gayl authored seven books, including his final work, "An Ordinary Life at an Extraordinary Time” (available on Amazon.com), which he completed in his later years. This book beautifully weaves together his professional insights with personal anecdotes, highlighting themes such as the American Dream, demographics, international public health, and the joy of travel and family.
Gayl embodied optimism and enthusiasm throughout his life, quick to offer toasts, share dad jokes, and recount witty stories. His presence uplifted those around him, whether in the classroom, at the dinner table, or around a campfire where he discussed climate change long before it became a widely recognized issue. His profound knowledge and intellect were matched only by his generosity in sharing them.
A celebration of Gayl’s life will be held at the University Commons on August 25th. For details on the time and location, please email shanta.layton@gmail.com.
