Joshua Louis Kann

Joshua Louis Kann passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on June 16, 2026, at the age of 60. Josh was born on April 26, 1966, in New York, New York, and was raised in Tucson, Arizona. He earned his Ph.D. in Optical Sciences from the University of Arizona in 1995. Following the completion of his doctorate, he moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he built both his career and his life.

Josh is survived by his wife, Lee; his daughter and son-in-law, Nakeesia and TJ; his grandchildren, Sedona and Summit; his son and daughter-in-law, Trevor and Madeleine; his son, Tyler; and his sister and brother-in-law, Melissa and Seth. Josh was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Kann.

Josh was an extraordinary optical scientist whose brilliance illuminated the darkest corners of national security, even as his greatest achievements remained quietly shielded from the public eye. Josh spent over three decades working for The Boeing Company. For over 20 years, he was the Chief Engineer and Lead Optical Designer for multiple programs at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Starfire Optical Range. He served as a pioneer in the field of advanced optics, dedicating his intellect to the science that safeguards our nation. To the world, Josh was a quiet, exceptionally gifted scientist, but to those within the defense and national security enterprise, he was a foundational pillar of modern technology capability, manipulating the behavior of light to give our nation's guardians an unparalleled vantage point. He helped design and refine the complex optical systems that allow our nation to see further, clearer, and with absolute precision in support of Air Force and Space Force research objectives. Through countless hours installing optics and hundreds of nights observing through the telescope systems, he pushed the limits of correction for atmospheric turbulence generating multiple "world firsts" in imaging from ground to space. Josh accepted the unique burden of the defense scientist-solving the world's most complex physics challenges without the expectation of public acclaim. He guided generations of incoming physicists and engineers, passing down a rigorous standard of scientific excellence. The systems he designed and built, along with the new capabilities they created for the nation, were lauded by senior military leaders.

Josh's greatest joy in life was his family. He loved them deeply and was immensely proud of each of his children and their accomplishments. He cherished his grandchildren and delighted in sharing his trademark dad jokes with them. Josh had a lifelong love of music and enjoyed playing the guitar and keyboard, as well as creating music. Josh was very curious and loved reading nonfiction to learn more about the world around him. He also had a special affection for his dogs, who brought him great companionship and happiness. Josh was a devoted sports fan, a life-long Giants & Suns supporter, and was known for his remarkable memory for sports stats. While many knew Josh for his brilliant mind and professional accomplishments, those closest to him knew him as a man with a great sense of humor. He had a gift for making others laugh, especially his wife, Lee.

An avid runner and cyclist, Josh loved the outdoors and found peace on mountain trails. He completed multiple marathons and triathlons and embraced every opportunity to challenge himself physically and enjoy the outdoors.

He took immense pride in his Solitaire streak of over one thousand days.

Josh faced the challenges of his illness with extraordinary courage and determination. Over the past two years, he fought tirelessly, overcoming a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed for months and working relentlessly to regain the ability to walk. His resilience and strength inspired everyone who witnessed his journey.

Above all, he was a kind, generous, and thoughtful person-a mentor, friend, and source of encouragement to many. His compassion, wisdom, and positive impact touched the lives of countless people, and his legacy will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society.