Salem Masry, an Icon in the Hydrographic World, Has Died
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Salem Masry, an Icon in the Hydrographic World, Has Died

Salem Masry, an icon in the hydrographic world, died on 1 February. This was announced by his close relatives earlier this week. Salem passed away surrounded by his family after a long illness. He leaves behind his wife, Laila; his three children, Mark (Karen), Paul (Carrie) and Emily; his grandchildren, Kate and Luke; his sister, Samiha (Salah) and his nephew, Khaled. He was predeceased by his parents, Catrina and Ragheb and by his brother, Maged.

Salem was born in Asyut, Egypt in 1938. His intelligence and work ethic was obvious even from an early age. After he completed his PhD in 1966 at University College, London, he emigrated to New Brunswick, Canada, to begin his career as a researcher at University of New Brunswick. He then became a professor and was one of the founding members of the Department of Surveying Engineering. 

Digital Mapping Technology

Salem Masry was a pioneer in the field of digital mapping and an innovator in New Brunswick's scientific community. In 1979, he founded the CARIS company to commercialize the digital mapping technology he had developed at the University of New Brunswick. His ingenuity led to the first digital land-mapping system for the Canadian Maritime provinces, and to the development of digital charts for national hydrographic services and international shipping companies, which greatly improved marine safety. He also promoted technology transfer and education by partnering with universities to share his software and technical expertise.

American Society of Photogrammetry

He received several awards in recognition of his work and his contributions to his community, including the Talbert Adams Grand Award by the American Society of Photogrammetry, appointments to the Order of Canada and the Order of New Brunswick, and an honorary Doctor of Science from UNB. Salem will be remembered fondly for his compassion, his intelligence, his work ethic, his amazing memory and his quick-witted sense of humour. He touched many lives with his bright spirit and will be greatly missed.   

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