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In Memoriam: David Middleton

A pioneer of modern statistical communication theory dies in New York at age 88.

Published April 05, 2009

David Middleton, a pioneer in modern statistical communication theory, died at age 88 on November 16, 2008, in New York City from complications due to cancer. Middleton’s models of communication channels and systems contributed to the explosive growth of data and wireless communications systems, finding applications in radar, underwater listening devices, satellite technology, and signal processing. During his 60-year consulting and teaching career, he served on the US Naval Advisory Research Committee and on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Supercomputing Research Center, Institute of Defense Analysis. His prolific written works include An Introduction to Statistical Communication Theory (1960), widely translated and reprinted, a classic in the field; Topics in Communication Theory (1965); and Elements of Non-Gaussian Statistical Communication Theory: A Space-Time Treatment, a sequel to his first book which until his death he worked to complete. Condolences may be posted to .