Bernard "Bud" Addis

Bernard “Bud” Addis, beloved husband, friend, mentor, and teammate, passed away on December 4 at his home in Bonita Springs, Florida. He was 91 years old. Born on May 16, 1934 in Kingston, Ontario, Bud grew up with an enduring love of learning, sport, and craftsmanship—qualities that shaped an extraordinary life marked by accomplishment, generosity, and quiet excellence. Bud pursued his education at Ryerson University and the University of Toronto, preparing for what would become a distinguished career in metallurgy. He later served for many years as head of the metallurgical laboratory at Cornell University, where he was recognized as one of the world’s foremost metallurgists. His pioneering work in fabricating exceptionally pure metals contributed directly to early semiconductor research and helped lay groundwork for advancements that touched nearly every part of modern technology. Colleagues and students alike remember him as a brilliant mind with a patient, meticulous approach and a deep commitment to the integrity of his craft. Beyond his scientific achievements, Bud was a lifelong athlete whose passion for hockey was matched only by his competitive spirit. In his youth, he starred in Jr. B hockey in Kingston before becoming a central figure in the Ithaca hockey community. He coached Ithaca Youth Travel Teams, served as player-coach of the Ithaca Senior League Hockey Champions in 1986–87, and led the Cornell University JV hockey team from 1991 to 1995. Bud also spent many years as an NCAA ice hockey referee, earning respect throughout the league for his fairness, decisiveness, and love of the game. Everyone loved Bud—unless, of course, they happened to be playing hockey against him. Bud was equally gifted on the golf course. A longtime member of his home club in Bonita Springs, he recorded an astounding 15 holes-in-one and captured multiple club championships. Together, Bud and his wife Lise were perennial contenders and multiple winners of the husband-and-wife club championship—a reflection not only of skill, but of the partnership that defined their 63 years of marriage. Bud married the love of his life, Lise, on September 1, 1962. She survives him and carries forward the memory of a warm, thoughtful, deeply accomplished man whose humor, discipline, humility, and kindness enriched the lives of all who knew him. Bud Addis will be remembered for his brilliance, his competitive fire, his devotion to family and friends, and his remarkable ability to excel in every field—scientific or athletic—that he touched. His legacy lives on in the countless people he inspired, taught, coached, and loved.

Bernard "Bud" Addis

May 16, 1934 - December 4, 2025