OBITUARY — Harry Verney Warren

Harry Verney Warren, recognized as the father of biogeochemistry, has died. He was 93.

Warren was born in Anacortes, Wash., and educated at the Vernon Preparatory School and the University of British Columbia, where he received a bachelor of science degree in 1926 and a bachelor of applied science degree the following year.

As a Rhodes Scholar for B.C., 1926-29, he attended Oxford University in England, where he received a master of science degree in 1928 and a doctorate of philosophy in 1929. His doctoral dissertation dealt with the lead and zinc deposits of southwestern Europe. After several years of research work at the California Institute of Technology as a Commonwealth Fund Fellow, he was appointed as a lecturer in the Department of Geology and Geography at the University of British Columbia in 1932. There, he later served as assistant professor (1935-39), associate professor (1939-45), professor (1945-1973) and honorary professor and professor emeritus (1973-93).

Warren published 198 articles and scientific papers, most of which related to mineral exploration. He is probably best-remembered for his pioneering work in the field of geochemistry, in which he made significant contributions in hydrogeochemistry. He was published extensively in journals such as The Northern Miner, Western Miner, CIM Bulletin and Economic Geology.

Warren was a founding member of the Association of Exploration Geochemists and the Society of Environmental Geochemistry & Health. He acted as a consultant to the mining industry on mineral exploration technology with such companies as Highland Bell, Conwest Exploration and Kennco Exploration.

Warren adapted and developed techniques in analytical chemistry, largely in association with his colleague, Robert Delavault. Among their scientific achievements was to make the connection between the occurrence and distribution of trace elements in soil, rock, vegetation and aquatic life and the location of near-surface mineral deposits. This work was successfully applied in exploration work by mining companies.

Warren’s investigations led him to recognize and investigate the relationship between trace elements and health problems. In recognition of this, he was installed by Prince Philip, in 1973, as one of four Honorary Fellows of the Royal College of General Practitioners in England. The previous year he had been made an Officer of the Order of Canada, and he has received many other honors and awards in the fields of mineral exploration, sports and environmental science.

Warren is survived by his children, Charlotte and Victor, and grandchildren Devon, David and Steven.