Scripps Institution : Sea Geologist F.P. Shepard Dies at 87

Francis P. Shepard, who is known in oceanography circles as the father of marine geology, died of natural causes at his La Jolla home Thursday. He was 87.

A professor emeritus of submarine geology at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Shepard was affiliated with UC San Diego for nearly 50 years through his research, teaching and writing. He retired from the university in 1966.

According to a university spokeswoman, Shepard was the first geologist to adopt marine geology as his primary scientific interest and wrote the first textbook in the field: “Submarine Geology,” published in 1948.

“The accomplishments of Dr. Francis Shepard in submarine geological research and education are legion,” said UCSD Chancellor Richard C. Atkinson. “The University of California has lost one of its most productive and prolific professors, whose dedication to the sea and the landscapes beneath it inspired both his colleagues and his students.”

Shepard was an active marine geologist until his death. He was co-author of the recent book “Sea Cliffs, Beaches and Coastal Valleys of San Diego County,” and wrote three chapters of “Living with the California Coast,” which will be released in May.

He is survived by his wife, Irene Orosis Shepard; sons Thomas H. of Bellevue, Wash., and Tim of Friday Harbor, Wash.; six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Funeral plans were incomplete Thursday.