Jud Vandevere at Ed Leeper’s Costume Party
Our world just lost one its finest people, and the highest quality encyclopedia of natural phenomena he put together in his mind and happily shared with all.
Monterey’s Jud Vandevere passed away on Christmas leaving a legacy of dramatically more insightful and inspired people in his wake.
Walking in a forest with Jud was a delightfully slow experience. He not only knew each plant – he could (and would if you gave him half a chance) tell you an entertaining story about each one.
Never one to leave you with a superficial story, he would explain how each plant and creature depended upon each other.
One of his funnier stories was how the building at Bird Rock came to be referred to as the Bathroom Obscura . . .
He always had time to explain a natural phenomenon, and would do so gently and leave you happy you asked. He was a perfect example of how a world class expert has absolutely no need for pompousness or arrogance. Jud was happy to teach anyone who truly wanted to learn.
Jud, I’ll miss your wonderful stories and your kind, gentle, insightful happy countenance. Its has been an honor to know you.
