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In Memory of Michael von Grünau

It is with great sadness that we bring news that Professor Michael von Grünau died on Thursday, December 22, 2011.

Michael was a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Concordia University in Montreal. He was well known for his contributions to the study of motion through both physiological and psychophysical studies. More recently he made many contributions to the study of visual attention.

Michael always delighted in the discovery of a new illusion or visual phenomenon. At the same time he was a disciplined and rigorous scientist for whom deadlines were never elastic. (Although in a very weakened state he was able to submit a conference abstract from his hospital bed in early December.)

For many years Michael was the principal of Science College (http://scicol.concordia.ca/) at Concordia, whose mission is to bring gifted science students to the University and expose them to a wide range of disciplines, and to allow them to participate in front line research from the earliest stages of their studies. Michael was very proud of the many students who flourished in this environment.

Michael's disciplined approach to research and teaching was complimented by his adventurous spirit and carefree approach to life, whether canoeing along the Amazon River or taking family trips through Europe with more or less improvised schedules.

Michael is survived by his wife Marinez, his son Fernando and his daughter Gabriela.

Those who knew Michael will remember his generosity and his concern for his students. Many of those he mentored remained in close contact with him long after they had graduated and moved on.

Michael will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Rick Gurnsey