Dr. Avery A. Sandberg, 95, of Scottsdale, died July 6, 2016. He was one of the founding fathers of cancer research and considered one of the premier authorities on cancer genetics and hematology worldwide.
In a 2008 interview with Jewish News, after publishing “The Genetics and Molecular Biology of Neural Tumors,” he explained the idea that drove his work for more than five decades: “The idea was to see, and it proved correct, if some diseases could be identified by their genetic makeup. … The ultimate aim is that if you know the genetic makeup that causes a tumor, you can then address the genetic makeup and by changing it possibly cure the tumor. This is the big aim of all genetic research in cancer.”
Born in Sarny, Poland, he had also been an Army captain during World War II.
Survivors include his daughters Diana Nashban of Scottsdale, Ruth Sandberg of Philadelphia, Nina Rosner of Cleveland and Jan Sandberg of Buffalo, New York; brother Dr. Hershel Sandberg of Detroit; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Services were held at Green Acres Cemetery with Hazzan Bernard Savitz officiating. Arrangements were made by Sinai Mortuary. Donations may be made to Congregation Shomrei Torah, 9600 N. 96th St., #153, Scottsdale 85258 or Barton House, 7007 E. Mountain View Road, Scottsdale 85253.
