Gordon A. Marker; Pioneer in Burning Used Tires to Generate Electrical Energy

Gordon A. Marker, a pioneer in converting used tires to electrical energy, has died in the crash of his single-engine plane in Lake Erie. He was 62.

The accident occurred Sept. 27, Marker’s Los Angeles daughter-in-law, Bonnie Lena, said this week.

Marker, an expert in organizing hydroelectric projects, joined an investment banker and others to create Oxford Energy in 1985. The company built the nation’s first tire-burning power plant in Westley, Calif., near Modesto.

In 1988, Marker and his company earned the U.S. Government Award for Energy Innovation.

Marker formed TransEnergy Inc. in the late 1980s to promote alternative energy sources on an international basis, and in 1990 built England’s first tire-burning power operation.

A native of Portland, Ore., Marker earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Oregon and a doctorate in economics from the University of Pennsylvania. He began his career teaching economics at the Wharton School of Rutgers University and at the University of Pittsburgh.

Marker is survived by his wife, Mary; a daughter, Rachel, and four adopted sons, Tom, Todd and Jeremy of Boston, and David of Los Angeles.

A memorial service is scheduled for Nov. 18 in Newton, Mass., and another will be planned for the West Coast. The family has asked that any memorial contributions be sent to the American Keeshond Society, Dog Rescue Group, 4626 N. 30th Drive, Phoenix, Ariz. 85017.