by Mike Sanchez Photos by gmhTODAY and Anaerobe Systems

Ellison Cox and the legacy he has left since his sudden passing on September 10th , 2024 , at age 79 . The communities of Morgan Hill , Gilroy , and the entire South County are better because of Mike Cox and his wife of 52 years , Mary . For nearly five decades , the couple have been community champions on multiple fronts . Mike gave of his time , talents , and treasures to support several local charitable organizations . He was an entrepreneur , founding his company Anaerobe Systems with Mary in 1978 to create and provide the world ’ s only true prereduced anaerobically sterilized ( oxygen-free ) media . ( PRAS media ).

Mike was a visionary scientist and inventor , holding multiple patents . He is a world-renown microbiologist and was one of the leading experts in the field of anaerobic microbiology . According to the Anaerobe Society of the Americas , where he was a founding member in 1992 , he was a preeminent expert in his field , a pioneer in laboratory technology , and a financial supporter of the organization . He co-authored the CLSI M56-A guideline “ Principles and Procedures for Detection of Anaerobes in Clinical Specimens .” For nearly 20 years , Mike conducted workshops for the Society at the Anaerobe Congresses , served on multiple sub-committees , and supported the advancement of anaerobic studies at Santa Clara University and other notable schools . He was awarded the Anaerobe Society ’ s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 .

28 FALL 2024 gmhTODAY Magazine : Go . Make history ... gmhtoday . com