Laben was raised in Genesee County, New York, on a dairy farm.
In addition he was a respected undergraduate advisor known for his open door policy and genuine concern for students.
He served as a member of Animal Science Departs Memorial Fund Committee which supports undergraduate student activities.
[1] He and his wife died on August 7, 2005, after their car got stuck on a remote desert road.
[2] In his honor, a UC Davis residence hall was named after Laben during the 2006-2007 school year.