In memoriam : David Peter Johnson 1957 – 2023

Abstract

Biography of the .... The biography includes information about his/her education and career, scientific contributions and writings, homages and distinctions.

Dr David Johnson was a year behind me at school and played alongside school colleagues of mine in the 1st Rugby Team. Our 50th School Reunion takes place this year. Dave was a very compassionate person and had a deep love for animals and birds. He played Provincial Rugby in his Varsity years first for WP and then N Transvaal. David had a hearing disability and used to lip-read when communicating, despite this, his empathy and compassion made him very dear to our Clients. Our MMP medical plan paid for him to have cochlear implant surgery. One of my very special memories of him was him sitting on the front door steps one evening under our awning. I asked if he was okay. His reply was: Charles, I am listening to the rain. How we, able-bodied, take so much for granted. He was quick-witted, intelligent but most of all an absolute gentleman. I will always remember the days of practice with him. We also worked together at UPE as students doing research work. I will never forget counting waves, measuring the water table and taking sand core samples. The most tanned students on Campus. Dave’s favourite hobby was fishing and he would spend most of his off time surf or rock angling and later fly fishing. His family were very important to him and he loved his wife very dearly. We have sadly lost a dear Colleague and Gentleman I wish him all the Best as He resides in Heaven and I am sure he is surrounded by family gone before and many animals by his side.