In memoriam - RIP Namibian PH Gert van der Walt

[Zinz]

My friends in Namibia passed this along to me just thing morning:

From Omujeve Hunting Safaris facebook page:

Our dear friend, PH Gert van der Walt, tragically passed away following a fatal encounter with a problem elephant. Gert leaves behind a loving wife and two children who now face the difficult task of bringing his body back to Windhoek to his final resting place and additional expenses associated with the loss of this exceptional man. Rest in peace, our dear friend Gert. Your legacy and spirit will forever remain in our hearts and the wild places you loved.

Ed Z
Cedar Park, Texas

 

[VertigoBE]

This is horrible news, my sincere condolences to his family and friends.

 

[Ridge Runner]

Deepest Condolences to his family and friends for thier tragic lose. May he Rest In Peace.

 

[Fatback]

That’s awful news. Prayers for his family and friend while they endure this hardship.

 

[SammyOscarMike]

Tragic news, especially for those that are left behind to cope. On the positive side He did lead a life he loved, but no one wants to end like this.

 

[Nyati]

R.I.P.

 

[Tanks]

RIP
Details here:

Elephant attack claims life of a Namibian professional hunter – Windhoek Observer

www.observer24.com.na

Sad that his 12 y/o son saw this unfold.

 

[PARA45]

Tragic news. Condolences and prayers to his family.

 

[Neil Molendyk]

Devastating to his family, friends and associates, RIP. but after reading the news article, what is wrong with some social media people, truing to create controversy, a man lost his life.If you can't say something good, say nothing at all.

 

[Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy]

Terrible news to hear. Prayers for his family.

Glad to see NAPHA issue a statement correcting the social media noise quickly - good on them.

I've also shared this with the DSC Frontline Foundation for consideration. For those that don't know, it is a great foundation that provides direct financial support when professionals working in hunting conservation are injured or killed while working in hunting conservation. PHs, trackers, anti-poaching, etc. are eligible.

 

[cwpayton]

TRULY A SAD TRAGEDY ,not any other way to look at it, Its a dangerous business, even so I wonder if to many people were present which threw him off a bit in his timing or instincts. sympathy to wife and children. prayers.

 

[BryceM]

We just got back earlier this week from Namibia. The news has deeply affected our good friends there. Condolences to all those who knew him and especially to his family. Apparently our PH had spoken with Gert only a few days before these events. So tragic.

 

[Sideshow]

RIP
Details here:

Elephant attack claims life of a Namibian professional hunter – Windhoek Observer

www.observer24.com.na

Sad that his 12 y/o son saw this unfold.

Yes RIP.
On a side note that’s a very well worded statement put out by Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA).

 

[cpr0312]

Very sad, prayers for the family!

 

[Brain1]

I spoke with Gert last week about this problem ele. I will regret the rest of my life that I didn't go. He was a long time friend and is sorely missed.

 

[Pheroze]

Horrible news. Pardon my ignorance, but is he Pierre van der Walt's son?

 

[franzfmdavis]

It is unfortunate, particularly having his young son witness it; however, it is also compelling that he (and so many others) pursue their passions aware of the risks. We all die, but only some truly live. RIP

 

[franzfmdavis]

I spoke with Gert last week about this problem ele. I will regret the rest of my life that I didn't go. He was a long time friend and is sorely missed.

My condolences for the loss of your friend.

 

[Badjer]

RIP

 

[JES Adventures]

My prayers and condolences go out to the family, may he Rest in Peace.