Ned Alma Israelsen, 71, passed away peacefully in his home in Escondido, California, surrounded by his family, according to a report published August 29. Born in Logan, Utah, Israelsen was a prominent figure in biotechnology patent law and academia.
Israelsen graduated from Sky View High School as Valedictorian and National Merit Scholar before attending Utah State University. He earned a BS in Chemistry and Biochemistry Magna Cum Laude with a perfect GPA and received a national Fulbright Scholarship. He later graduated with high honors from George Washington University Law School.
In his professional career, Israelsen joined the firm of Knobbe, Martens, Olsen and Bear in 1983, eventually serving as the director of the San Diego branch. He focused on biotechnology patent law and assisted clients in bringing medications and medical devices to market. He was also an adjunct professor at three different law schools and authored numerous academic papers.
Beyond his legal practice, Israelsen was involved in the biotechnology startup sector as a long-term member of Tech Coast Angels. He founded and directed Ionium Capital and co-founded several companies, including Actavalon Pharmaceuticals, CardioCreate, and Kalyra Pharmaceuticals. At the time of his death, he was co-managing a new company developing non-addictive pain medication.
A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Israelsen served a two-year mission in Chicago from 1974 to 1976. His church service included roles as a Sunday School teacher, Elder's Quorum President, bishopric member, temple worker, and high counselor. He spent 29 years mentoring young men within the church.
Israelsen is survived by his wife, Cynthia Saunders Israelsen, and four children: Stanford Thomas Israelsen, Lisa Israelsen Barry, Kurt Alan Israelsen, and Paul Edward Israelsen. He is also a grandfather to sixteen grandchildren.
A memorial service was held on August 22, 2026, in Escondido, California. A viewing and funeral service for the family was scheduled for August 29, 2026, in North Logan, Utah, followed by an interment at North Logan Memorial Park.
