Julian Boldy Memorial Award - Winner 2002
Daniel Robert BoyleGeological Society of CIM Nomine
“In recognition of Dan Boyle’s longstanding service to the geoscience community, in particular the Geological Society of CIM, as well as his range of scientific and technical accomplishments, including interaction with students.”
Daniel Robert Boyle recently died at 52 after a courageous battle with cancer. Dan was an environmental geochemist with a B.Sc. from Queen’s University, Kingston, 1971, and a Ph.D. from Imperial College, London, England, 1976. From 1974 to 1977, he was a Lecturer at Imperial College.
In 1977, Dan joined the Geological Survey of Canada where he initially specialized in the geology and geochemistry of uranium deposits. His career subsequently evolved to include a variety of national and international projects on topics that ranged from ground water to mineral deposits. He became a leading authority on ground water monitoring and sampling technology and invented a highly effective ground water sampling system that has been patented and commercialized. His research on the environmental geochemistry of fluorine identified areas in the Maritime Provinces where fluoride is present at toxic levels.
Dan was widely respected for his scientific achievements and received numerous honours, including the 1995 CIM Barlow Medal for his paper on the Murray Brook precious metal deposit in the Bathurst camp of northern New Brunswick. He was recently involved with environmental studies in China, where he quickly developed a bond with his Chinese colleagues because of his kind, easy manner and willingness to embrace local customs.
Dan was an active member of the Geological Society of CIM, which he served for many years as the Society’s representative on the Environmental Committee / Society. He was looking forward to leading the Geological Society as President for 2000-2001 but was prevented from assuming office due to his health.
Dan also gave much to his community. He coached little league baseball and was trainer for a minor hockey team. He was a keen and talented golfer.
Our sincere condolences are extended to his wife and family. He will also be greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues around the world.