The U.S. Arctic Research Commission distributed the following article.

The United States Arctic Research Commission marks, with great sadness, the death of our friend and fellow Commissioner, Duane H. Laible. Duane was appointed by President Bush in 2003, and served the Commission for more than four years as an active member and subject matter expert on Arctic shipping and maritime matters. In private life, Laible chaired the noted marine architecture and engineering firm Glosten and Associates of Seattle.

During his Commission tenure, Duane actively supported the development of a U.S. research goal focusing on the future of the Arctic Ocean for marine operations. It is in large part because of Duane's efforts and strong endorsement that the Commission unanimously supported the funding of the Alaska Region Research Vessel, a 236-foot, $123 million ice-capable craft designed to foster research in high latitudes. The initial phase of that funding was announced in early August. Duane was also instrumental in developing content for the National Academy of Sciences Icebreaker Study, key to the $100 million funding allocation by Congress in July that directed the U.S. Coast Guard to maintain and operate its three existing Arctic capable icebreakers and to construct two new icebreaking vessels. He served as chair of the USARC Arctic Marine Transportation Working Group whose imminent report will offer a fresh analysis of research and national investment needs anticipated for the changing Arctic region.

"It is our intention to see that Duane Laible's commitment to a safe Arctic Ocean be realized," said USARC Commission Chair Mead Treadwell. "Duane played a significant role just after the Exxon Valdez oil spill to ensure safer shipping in Prince William Sound. His work on the preliminary design of the ARRV exemplifies his dedication to Arctic research. We will miss his cheer, humor and good counsel."

Former Commission Chair George Newton, described Duane as a truly unique person: "successful, smart, a leader, and yet not in the least bit full of himself. It is not surprising that he was a person who gave the USARC added credibility for he was situated ideally between industry and the academic community and was respected by both."

The U.S. Arctic Research Commission consists of seven members appointed by the President to advise the President and Congress on goals for the U.S. Arctic Research Program. The Commission helps coordinate the work of over 15 federal agencies conducting research in the Arctic on topics ranging from climate change to Arctic health, infrastructure, and resources.

Family's Obituary for Duane Laible

Obituary for Duane Laible

Seattle Post Intelligencer article on Duane Laible