We are deeply saddened about the loss of a good friend. I don’t need to extol David’s incredible scientific contributions; they are well known and documented. He was an agnostic atheist, but cared more for others than most of those who call themselves religious. He cared for the nature more than many environmentalists. He was an extraordinary family man who was happily married for 41 years to a woman that he loved and respected. Both raised their children to become successful and responsible adults. David’s interest was not limited to his professional areas of expertise. We remember delightful and eloquent conversations about music and literature, gardening and food, painting and antiques over a good self-prepared dinner. David was a humanist in the truest sense of its meaning: despite his remarkable achievements, he remained unassuming and respectful of others and their interests and values. These attributes, his sagacious mind, and a never-ending interest in new findings made him a credible role model for many of his mentees and enabled them to discover themselves and develop their full potential. We remember him fondly and will miss him deeply, but his legacy will live on for a long, long time. Brenda and Uli