David Hite

Jan 4, 2024

David was born in Sherwood, Ore., to Marcel and Mary Hite. He passed away in January 2024, in Bend, Ore., where he was currently residing. He was 84 years old.

David was raised in Oregon. He believed deeply in the value of education, largely due to the influence of his paternal grandmother, who was one of the first female graduates of Oregon State University. He was encouraged to excel academically, and he often said that at the age of 8, he knew he wanted to be a geologist. He graduated from Oregon State University Corvallis with a Bachelor of Science degree, and University of Wisconsin Madison with M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Geology. David's field work for his graduate degrees was largely done in the Canadian Arctic.

David had a long and distinguished career in the oil and gas industry. He was well recognized for his expertise in Alaska geology, and authored and co-authored several papers regarding Alaska oil and gas. David was particularly pleased to co-edit/author an AAPG volume on the oil fields of the Cook Inlet basin, which continues to serve as a resource to those interested in the area.

In addition to serving on the State Mapping Board, David was a member of the National Academy of Science Polar Research Board and participated in the National Resource Council Committee on Cumulative Effects of Oil and Gas Activities on Alaska's North Slope.

David lived and worked for over 30 years in Alaska. He was employed in staff and management positions by Atlantic Richfield/ARCO. Altogether, David had more than four decades of experience in oil and gas research, exploration and development, resource evaluation and management. Never happier than when he was immersed in his work, he served as a resource and a mentor for many younger geologists throughout his career.

After leaving ARCO, David opened Hite Consulting in 1992, and enjoyed the travel and challenges of consulting until he retired. His clientele ranged from native corporations to oil companies to legal firms.

David loved geology and he loved his family and friends. He was a devoted and loyal friend. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially attending the Oregon State Beavers games. He will be missed by many.

David is predeceased by his sister, Sharon Gillingham. He is survived by his sister, Carol Nelson (Jack); brother, Terry Hite (Pat); nephews and nieces; cousins; and former wife, Nikki Lamb. Memorial donations may be sent to Oregon State Geology Department or any animal welfare organization.