Fred Kavli, Philanthropist Who Championed Scientific Research

Age at death: 86

How he earned his money: Born in Norway, Fred Kavli came to the United States after obtaining a degree in physics at the Norwegian Institute of Technology. In 1958 he founded the Kavlico Corporation, which makes sensors for the aerospace and automotive industries. As the sole owner and chief executive of the company, Mr. Kavli sold it for $345-million in 2000. He also invested in real estate that vastly increased his fortune.

Major philanthropic role: Mr. Kavli set up a charitable foundation in 2000 to support research in astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience, and theoretical physics. Since then, the foundation has given more than $200-million to endow 17 university research institutes to study subjects in those areas. Beginning in 2008, the Kavli Foundation began awarding $1-million prizes every other year to top researchers in astrophysics, nanoscience, and neuroscience. The foundation is likely to get a new infusion of money from his will.

How he will be remembered: Scientists have lauded Mr. Kavli for his generosity in promoting scientific research that does not have much commercial support and for doing so at a time when many university research budgets have been cut.