Industry Mourns Passing of Clorox and AkzoNobel Cleaning Expert Dr. Dale Steichen

Dr. Dale Steichen, a longtime researcher and scientist within the cleaning product supply chain who worked for Clorox and AkzoNobel, died on Dec. 22, 2021. He was 67.
 

Steichen, who was the American Cleaning Institute’s 2017 recipient of ACI’s Elva Walker Spillane Distinguished Service Award,  spent more than 30 years within the industry, working for The Clorox Company for 11 years managing product, process and packaging development, and then for more than two decades in various roles for AkzoNobel, including VP of R&D. He received his PhD in Physical Organic Chemistry from UCLA.
 
Steichen was a member of ACI’s board of directors and served as chair and vice-chair of ACI’s strategic advisory and oleochemical committees.
 
“The staff of ACI is extraordinarily sad to learn of Dale Steichen’s passing,” said Melissa Hockstad, ACI President and CEO, in a release sharing the news of Steichen’s death. “He was such a strong, passionate supporter and advocate of ACI and dedicated to science and research throughout his distinguished career. 
 
“We fondly remember his wonderful laugh, his zest for life, and most importantly, his deep love for his family. The entire team here at ACI extends our deepest condolences to Dale’s wife Sandy, daughters Stephanie and Samantha, his extended family and all those who knew and loved him.”
 
Steichen is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sandy Steichen and two daughters.  Contributions in his memory can be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation.