Nathaniel Richard Quick, PhD, was born April 20, 1949, in Brooklyn, N.Y., and peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 in Lake Mary, Fla., at the age of 75. Nat is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lauralee Quick, of Lake Mary, Fla.; his mother Naomi Jeanne White Quick of Orangeburg, S.C.; his father Nathaniel Edwin Quick (predeceased 5/1990); his children Erica, of Lake Mary, Fla.; Andrea (husband Rodger) of Blythewood, S.C.; and Jelani (wife Tamika), of Union City, Ga. Other children include Anthony, who passed away July 10, 2022, Hopatcong, N.J. Also, he is survived by his six grandchildren. Nat's siblings are sister Linda (husband Robert), of Orangeburg, S.C., and brothers Dennis, of Charleston, S.C., and David, of Orangeburg, S.C. Additionally, Nat is survived by nieces, nephews, and a host of cousins. Nat was absolutely devoted to his family, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Nat promoted education, and humanity for mankind. Driving the family across the country exploring places of interest and sharing history was a big enjoyment for him. He also enjoyed jazz music.

In school, Nat excelled academically and athletically. At Moorestown High School in N.J. and at Brighton High School in Rochester, N.Y., Nat was a football and track star. Throughout his life he was an exercise enthusiast, enjoying not only football and track but tennis, basketball, running, and swimming. He had 2nd degree Black Belt in Mixed Martial Arts. A scholar at Brighton High School, he was selected valedictorian at his graduation and president of his senior class, in which he was the only African American student. After graduation from high school in 1967, Nat was accepted at Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y., where he received his bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in materials science and engineering. He attained his doctorate in 1976.

Nat was the Executive Director of The Laser Institute of America in Orlando, Fla., from October 2017 to March 2023. Also, he was president and chief technology officer of Applicote Associates, LLC, Lake Mary, Fla. He created 62 U.S. patents and produced over 60 publications.

During his lifetime he gained many honors, awards, and recognitions, including, among others, an NSF Fellowship, Cornell University; Outstanding Achievement in Business/Professions Center for Leadership and Development, Indianapolis, IN; and a nomination to the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame. Nat was on the Board of the Boys Club of Rochester, N.Y.; a member of the Colorado Association of Black Professional Engineers and Scientists; and a member of the Army Science Board.

In keeping with Dr. Quick's spirit, this will be a warm and personal occasion while enjoying light refreshments by the tranquil Waterfront. We welcome you to bring your thoughts and prayers, as we pay tribute to a remarkable life.

RSVP EMAIL - ericalisaquick@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the spouse Lauralee Quick at https://gofund.me/b3f6738a . If you need contact information, please contact The DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory, 9001 N. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, Fl 32751, (407) 695-2273 www.degusipefuneralhome.com