U of M researchers mourn tragic passing of colleague

Dr. Klaus Hochheim

Dr. Klaus Hochheim, a respected climatologist and research associate with the Centre for Earth Observation Science (CEOS) at the University of Manitoba, has died tragically in a helicopter accident in the Canadian Arctic. He was 55 years of age.

“Klaus was a friend and colleague. We’re devastated at the news of his passing,” says Tim Papakyriakou, director of the Centre for Earth Observation Science in the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources. “Klaus worked with us at CEOS for over 12 years, although collaborations with some here extend back more than 25 years. He was a veteran of high Arctic field campaigns and an outstanding research scientist. We extend heartfelt condolences to his family. He will be sorely missed by all.”

Hochheim was aboard a Coast Guard helicopter over the Northwest Passage when it crashed yesterday. Two Coast Guard officers were also killed in the accident.

Hochheim received his BA (hons) from the University of Winnipeg, followed by his MA/95 and PhD/03 from the University of Manitoba. He studied sea ice climatology and microwave and optical remote sensing in extreme conditions, having been part of projects and expeditions in both the Arctic and Antarctic. He worked extensively with ArcticNet, a Network of Centres of Excellence of Canada that brings together scientists and managers in the natural, human health and social sciences with their partners from Inuit organizations, northern communities, federal and provincial agencies and the private sector.

Hochheim leaves behind a wife and three children.