On the 21st of November Dr. Kenneth L. Zonge (Founder of Zonge) passed away.
Ken was a pioneer in electrical geophysics and influenced much in the application of electrical and electromagnetic geophysics, creating many tools which are now standards in exploration. Ken was one of several leaders in the 1970’s who brought electrical geophysics into the digital age.
Ken’s many accomplishments include developing the complex resistivity method, and based on this idea, founded Zonge Engineering and Research Organization in 1972. He also developed the world’s first field-portable, digital electrical geophysical receiver in 1977, and greatly contributed to the commercial application of Controlled Source Audio-frequency Magnetotellurics (CSAMT) and Complex Resistivity (CR) services as practical exploration tools. Ken’s instruments from 20 years ago are among the best in the industry and are still competitive today.
Ken was not only the quintessential scientist/engineer, but he was always the humble gentleman. His love of the outdoors, and in particular, his love of Alaska, blended perfectly with his application of geophysics, whether toward minerals or oil exploration, or studying environmental or groundwater problems.
The executive of GGSSA wish to acknowledge the contribution of Ken Zonge to the geophysics industry and pass our heart felt condolences to his family and friends.