In Memory of Alan Cibuzar

Founder and CEO of A.W. Research Laboratories

Alan was a man who believed in everyone, believed everybody had a talent in their own special way, was a hero who inspired many to follow their dreams, a mentor to many, and always on a quest to make this world a better place. He loved so many, gave so much and was determined to always live life to the fullest. 

Alan Waite Cibuzar was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on July 7, 1949, and died of a heart attack on April 28, 2014, at his home in Brainerd. 

Raised in Brainerd Minnesota, Alan graduated from North Dakota State University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Coatings. After graduation he worked in the family shoe business while building a research laboratory business. Alan was an environmental enthusiast who dedicated his life and work to sustaining the quality of Minnesota lakes. He was owner and chief executive officer of AW Research and Image Engineering, applying advanced technologies for the protection of our environment. Alan received international recognition for the use of hyper-spectral and multi-spectral imagery in the location and treatment of point and nonpoint pollution sources. The technologies were also used in developing and implementing processes to remediate environmental harm. These applications and techniques were featured in numerous publications, including National Geographic and The Wallstreet Journal. A true Rotarian, Alan was an active member and past president of the Brainerd Rotary Club, as well as a long-time member of the North American Lake Management Society. He was also a supporter of the Thirty Lakes Watershed District since its inception.

A pilot since the age of 15, flying was his passion. Logging over 3,000 hours, Alan achieved the true dream of combining his love of flying with his love of Minnesota lakes. Alan enjoyed sailing, downhill skiing (Monday night races), his daily YMCA swim, and being “Gramps”. He was a lover of all things food and the biggest Beach Boys fan around.