Pete Wiese

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the Department of Marine Science at the University of South Alabama note with sorrow the passing of a dear friend and supporter, Mr. Pete Wiese of Fairhope, Alabama.  A former geologist with Vulcan Materials, Mr. Wiese died in October at the age of 83.  His relationship with the Sea Lab and USA started when he collaborated on a project in Mexico with Drs. John Dindo, Ken Heck and Bob Shipp.  Immediately interested in how he could contribute to marine science education and research in our local area, he supported a number of innovative outreach programs.  The Wiese Lecture Series annually brings a world-renowned marine scientist to the Department of Marine Science to present a public lecture and allow graduate students and faculty the opportunity to meet a scientist of international stature.  In his hometown of Fairhope, Alabama, Mr. Wiese supported the Pelican’s Nest, a K-1 marine science laboratory, and he served as a member of the Fairhope Environmental Advisory Board, working on stormwater management and other environmental preservation issues.

We will miss Pete’s quiet integrity, passion for the environment and wry humor.  But his influence will continue to be felt by the children, students and public who participate in the ongoing programs he supported.