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John Rhind Funeral Directors

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David HEATHERBELL Obituary

DOB July 14, 1941, Hope, Nelson, peacefully died May 2, 2024, Christchurch Hospital. Loved and will be cherished by his remaining children; Gwynne, Morgan and Karen, grandchildren; Teddy, Jake, Zac, Tessa and Reuben, close friend former wife Rosemarie Gutsmann, friends and past colleagues and students throughout NZ and overseas. Raised on Heatherbell Orchard. Attended Nelson Boys College and University of Canterbury (BSCChem, Hons Biochem), Oregon State University (OSU), USA (PHD Food Science and Technology). A career dedicated to Food and Wine Scientific Research and Teaching, based in NZ, USA and internationally. Included; Research Scientist DSIR 1965-1978, Professor Food Science and Technology OSU 1978-88. Contributed to the rebirth of the Oregon wine industry, in particular Pinot Noir. Research Scientist Hort and Food, Plant and Food Crown Research Institutes NZ 1988-1991. Professor Oenology Lincoln University Christchurch 1991-2007. David took pride in his research and great satisfaction from contributing to and seeing success of graduates nationally and internationally in the field of Oenology, focus on Cooler Climate Wine Styles.

A thinker, competitive tennis player in his youth, love for music, the arts and history, and recent co-author on a book 'Philosophy of Wine Making'. David had a deep connection with his local beach and community of Sumner, Christchurch.

Messages to the Heatherbell family, c/- 19 London Street, Christchurch 8013. A private cremation will be held.


Published by The Press on May 4, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for David HEATHERBELL

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8 Entries

Kerry Norton

July 25, 2024

David was my major professor at Oregon State University. I have never worked for such a warm, open positive person as David. It was a pleasure studying under him and I will always remember his generosity and genuine interest in me and in all of his other students. He was an exceptional person and I will continue to keep him in my memory. My condolences to his family and friends.

Maxine's Hair Design, Maxine Canning

May 17, 2024

I'm am very sad to of just found out that David had passed away, I was his hairdresser, came to me all the way from Sumner, such a lovely man we had such lovely conversations, will miss him , Rest in Peace David

Kate Hart

May 13, 2024

I remember your warm and broad smile David. With love and fond memories,

Jan & Robin Anderson

May 11, 2024

A lovely and gentle friend, David was always optimistic and interested in others.
Passionate in any discussions of music and wine, plus he had a sweet tooth for home made preserves.
We will miss his friendship as will many folk in many parts of the world.

Maree

May 8, 2024

To Karen and the boys sorry to read of David´s passing . He was brave and positive till the end. I know how much he wanted to get back to his beach pad as he called it . Will miss our talks and morning teas . At peace now rest well your friend Maree. Not to forget kitty as you loved cats .

Rob & Rachel Walsham

May 6, 2024

We will sadly miss David our wonderful neighbour in Nayland St. Always positive and cheerful in spite of his ailments and with so much expert knowledge which we thoroughly enjoyed.

Christine Hart

May 5, 2024

What an enthusiastic and fun guy he was yet he had a real thinking side to him too. And what a tennis player was he! He will be missed.

John Fletcher

May 4, 2024

I remember Dave while working at Mt Albert. A lovely man and an enthusiastic scientist. My sincere condolences

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

Memorial Events
for David HEATHERBELL

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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John Rhind Funeral Directors

13-19 London St Richmond, Christchurch