Marine geologist and geophysicist who studied seafloor spreading and recognized the Sudbury Basin as an ancient meteorite impact.
He studied at the University of Illinois.
His studies with fellow scientist Harry Hess are credited with paving the way for Plate Tectonic Theory.
He had three children with ex-wife Nanon Grinstead Dietz.
He was the lead navy scientist who worked with Jacques Piccard exploring the Marina Trench.