John D. Myers

Mr. Myers was born on August 21, 1933, in South Bend, Indiana to his parents, Delbert and Dorise Myers.  He grew up in South Bend and graduated from Central Senior High School in 1951.  He served in the US Army during the Korean War. After graduating from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in physics, he went on to graduate work at both Indiana University and Pennsylvania State University.  His subsequent career included work at Cornell Aeronautical Labs, Martin Marietta, Lear Siegler Laser Systems Center, and Owens Illinois.  In 1973, JD founded his own company, Kigre Incorporated, where he continued his work.  Throughout this time, he was central to many advancements in optical physics and was awarded over 20 patents involving laser technology.  In 1984 he moved his company and family to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. His interests were wide ranging, and included sailing, ship design, photography, music, theater, and military history.  He loved sailing, but the thing that seemed to make him happiest was having his whole family gathered together at dinner, knowing they were all provided for. He is survived by his sister, Millicent Petersen; his four sons, Michael, David, Jeffrey, and Daniel; six grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.