Bert L. Conrey, a retired Cal State Long Beach professor, died January 31.
He was 77 years old.
Conrey was the founder and a professor of the CSULB geological sciences department. He is survived by his wife Ethel.
"He was one of the nicest people," said Dr. Stan Finney, geological sciences chairperson.
Conrey established the CSULB geology department in 1955.
His varied interests, from photography to geology, helped form the curriculum for all the programs in the geological sciences department, including marine geology and oceanography.
"He was a real force for setting up the marine geology department," Finney said.
Over the years, Conrey helped the department overcome the challenges of blending the traditional technology of hands-on instruments with new computer technology.
"It's largely through his efforts that the department is (this) strong," Finney said.
Due to his dedication, CSULB was essential in the creation of the Ocean Studies Institute on Terminal Island. Conrey also provided the first research vessel used in geology, an Avon inflatable which he owned.
After returning home from military duty in World War II, Conrey married Ethel Johnson in December 1947.
He then received his bachelor's and master's degrees in geology from UC Berkeley. He also received a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California.
Contributions in Conrey's memory may be made to a memorial scholarship fund for graduate geology students.