Longtime GINA staff member dies

January 31, 2011

University Relations

Kevin Engle, a research programmer and ground station manager at UAF's Geographic Information Network of Alaska, died Jan. 27.

Engle, 46, was a research programmer and ground station manager at UAF's Geographic Information Network of Alaska where he helped people in the processing and delivery of satellite products, such as images useful for real-time monitoring of forest fires. He oversaw two satellite-receiving stations and managed satellite information from the Gilmore Creek NOAA/NESDIS Satellite Reception Facility. While he worked at UAF's Geophysical Institute, from 1992 to 2001, Engle was one of the pioneers of using satellite data to assist with volcano monitoring. In all his university positions, Engle was sought after when something went wrong. "He was a problem solver," said Virgil "Buck" Sharpton, Engle's supervisor and friend. "He could solve any problem, be it processing or programming . . . And if you knew Kevin, you considered him your friend."

A memorial event will take place Saturday, Feb. 19, from 2 – 5 p.m. at Big Daddy's BBQ banquet hall at the corner of First Ave. and Wickersham streets. Remembrances to be shared in celebration of Kevin's life can be sent to remembering.kevin@gina.alaska.edu or posted on the memorial website.

For anyone who feels they need to talk with someone, grief counseling is available for faculty and staff through the Employee Assistance Program. For more information call 1-866-465-8934.