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George P. Mitchell, widely considered as the 'Father of Fracking', died July 26, 2013 of natural causes. He was 94.
His death was originally reported on his foundation's website.
His technological pursuits and expertise in the oil and gas industry paved the way for the future of oil and gas development. Many methods that are now widely used in the development of unconventional resource plays stemmed from his innovation and industry outlook, most notably hydraulic fracturing.
In a statement on the foundation's website, the Mitchell family commented: "George P. Mitchell was raised as a child of meager means who, throughout his life, believed in giving back to the community that made his success possible and lending a hand to the less fortunate struggling to reach their potential."
In 2011, Mitchell made public his intent to donate the majority of his wealth (which Forbes estimates to be approximately $2 billion) to charitable causes.
Mitchell originated from Galveston, Texas. He went on to form Mitchell Energy & Development Corp., which was eventually sold to Devon Energy Corp. in 2002 for a total of $3.5 billion.
(photo credit: The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation)