The UVic community lost one of their own last weekend.
Nijin John, a 27-year-old chemistry researcher, passed away in a surfing accident in Tofino on Feb. 10.
Nijin John passed away on Feb. 12. Photo via GoFundMe
John was in the process of finishing his PhD in Chemistry at UVic, and was a member of the Biophysical Chemistry and Spectroscopy group. John specialized in the “surface restructuring of polymer firms.”
In the aftermath of John’s death, his close friend Vivin Mathew started a GoFundMe page on his behalf to raise funds for funeral expenses.
The fund was created on Feb. 11 and started with a goal of $18 000.In the short time it’s been up, however, over 250 people have donated $22 470, and numerous friends and coworkers have shared their condolences on the page.
“Everyone from the Department of Chemistry at the University of Victoria wish to pass along heartfelt condolences to the family,” read a message from the department posted on the page. “Nijin was a very well-respected researcher and teaching assistant — he will be greatly missed by his students and coworkers.”
Similarly, Rory Hills, a member of John’s research group, reiterated the respect he had for John.
“Nijin was incredibly kind. He was there for me when I was at a really low point and for that I will always be grateful. My heartfelt condolences to everyone touched by his passing.”
To donate to Nijin John’s GoFundMe page, visit https://www.gofundme.com/nijin-john-funeral-fund
