David F. Schaible, president and chief operating officer of Newfield Exploration Co., Houston, died Oct. 13 after a brief battle with cancer. He was 46. “It is with heavy heart that we make this announcement,” says David A. Trice, Newfield chairman and chief executive. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Dave’s wife, Tina, and his four wonderful children. Dave positively influenced the lives of all those around him and will continue to through this special organization that he helped create. Dave made those around him better. His presence will always be felt in all we do and accomplish in the future.” Trice will reassume the role of president in addition to chairman and CEO. Schaible joined Newfield in 1988 and, at 28, was the youngest member of the founding group of Newfield employees. Prior to joining Newfield, he was senior production engineer in the Eastern Gulf Division of Tenneco Oil Exploration & Production Co. He held a degree in petroleum engineering from Marietta College, where he was on the Industry Advisory Committee. He was also active in the Society of Petroleum Engineers