We are saddened to hear of the recent passing of John Doll, a 35-year veteran of the USPTO who rose through our ranks from being a patent examiner in 1974 to Commissioner for Patents, and Acting Director of the USPTO.
John was a dynamic individual who promoted a close dialog between inventors and examiners, and a role model for so many of us who served with him. He was a true champion of our patent examination corps, and a wonderful and dedicated friend to those who were privileged to work with him.
When John retired from the USPTO in 2009, former Director Dave Kappos said that he had “earned respect both inside and outside the agency for his leadership, his knowledge, and his passion for the USPTO and the U.S. intellectual property system.” As Commissioner for Patents from 2005 to 2009, John helped our Office through the difficult transition to the digital processing of applications and images at a time of unprecedented growth in filings and hiring. He was an instrumental leader who has left an indelible mark on the U.S. patent system.
Like so many people within our great organization, John devoted his life to our mission, and we remain the beneficiaries of his service. We humbly extend our condolences and prayers to John’s family.