Death of SRGC member David King

[Maggi Young]

We have heard from his sister, Tina, that David King, of Alyth in Perthshire, previously of Sheffield, has passed away. He had been unwell for some time. David is survived by his wife Freda, who, sadly, is not in the best of health.

David who was a passionate bulb grower, particularly interested in Calochortus and Fritillaria, was a popular speaker on these bulbs . He travelled extensively in the USA to photograph these flowers, covering huge distances in his quest to record as many species as possible.

We have vivid memories of Dave's visits here at bulb repotting time, to "see how Ian does this".

[Maggi Young]

From Gerry Webster :

The death of David King  is very sad news. I rememember a talk by him on N. American frits at the Frit Group some years ago; the photos were superb. He also had a very fine chapter in Bulbs of North America.   

[Maggi Young]

From Cliff Booker:

How sad to hear of the passing of David King and the continuing poor health of Freda.
The Kings were regulars at the northern AGS Shows in the late '80's - early '90's and always had a kind word for new exhibitors and willingly imparted their considerable knowledge of North American plants and their habitats.
David presented an excellent lecture to our East Lancashire Local Group and convinced at least one of our regulars to try calochortus and frits, a suggestion that has resulted in a lifelong passion for this particular member.
Our sympathies to Freda and the family.  Thanks David for your inspiration and friendship.

Cliff Booker

[Maggi Young]

Tina, sister of the late David King  has been in touch to let us know that Freda King passed away yesterday.
As you will have seen from the earlier post, Freda had been in poor health for some time.

We send our condolences to all the family at this time.